Built in 1940 as part of the New Deal directive, an historic building in Merrill is being transformed into a brewery.
The former DNR Ranger Station is being outfitted to house the Sawmill Brewing Company, the name noting Merrill's timber past.
Former science teacher and Merrill resident Stan Janowiak purchased the property from the city last December.
While Janowiak likes craft beer, it’s not the reason they decided to open a brewery.
“None of us are actually passionate brewers, although we have a passionate brewmaster on the line, we are passionate about Merrill, the city of Merrill and we want to see good things happen here.”
While Janowiak hopes to open this December, it could be another six to eight months before permits are secured to brew their own beer. Until then, the brewery will offer craft beers made in the Central Wisconsin area. Janowiak also hopes to incorporate a kitchen in the future and is toying with the idea of having food truck vendors on-site in the meantime.
The building is located off County Road K. Janowiak says it will retain most of the historic structure including the granite walls which were most likely quarried in the area.
