This is a post from 2011. After a long delay, the Rathskeller is indeed going to be open to the public in a few months!
The tower rises from the heart of West Seventh, defining and defying the passage of time and the lay of the community. The Schmidt Brewery is the West End to many people because it rises like an old oak from secure roots to dominate the skyline longer than anyone can remember. Its endurance is remarkable because it cannot be ignored yet somehow has been neglected, too big to care for and yet too important to imagine life without.
That’s how the Fort Road Federation, through the help of the City of Saint Paul, came to acquire the property for redevelopment. Decades of tireless work by many people, led by City Councilmember Dave Thune, has reached another turning point for this symbol of a community and its endurance. After years of planning and haggling it has a new owner and, soon, a new use.
I toured the site as member of the Federation’s Board of Directors. I’d like to show you one small but vital part of this great site, the Rathskeller. It is one of the hidden jewels of Saint Paul, soon to be uncovered once again.
Barataria - The work of Erik Hare 