German decoration and family history and tradition is very important to the Bavarian Inn Family. All around the Bavarian Inn Restaurant and
Lodge we showcase our traditions and history in art, photographs and decorations. Located at the Bavarian Inn Lodge there are 8 stained glass murals located in the Conference Center. Over the next 8 weeks we will showcase one mural.
In 1973, the Bavarian Inn Restaurant lower lobby was redecorated and transformed into a “family room”. These stained glass, free-handing panels, fashioned by local artist Bob Vavrina, were focal points and conversation pieces of the room. The windows were illuminated during the day by the outside light.
In 1987, during a large renovation to the Restaurant’s lower lobby, the stained class was put in storage. Now they are on display again – this time in the beautiful Bavarian Inn Lodge across the Cass River from the Restaurant.
Our first mural is the Brewery Window:
Top – Frankenmuth woolen Mill and Cider Mill
Established in 1894. The cider mill was located at the front of the building. Ben Felgner and William Abraham were some of the well-know owners. In 1917, the Woolen Mill received a government contract to knit 66,000 pair of woolen socks for our soldiers fighting World War I. With 24 women and 5 men, the mill’s payroll was the largest in the village.
Center – Cass River Brewery
Built by Martin Heubisch and Wilhelm Knaust in 1862. This was the forerunner of the Geyer Bothers Brewery.
Bottom – Dam across the Cass River
Beyond the dam is the Iron Bridge. Also in the scene is Hubinger Mill, established in 1848 on the north bank of the Cass.
Right – Cleaning the kegs from which the beer was served
Left – Frankenmuth Canoe Club
Shown left to right are: Frank Pietsch, Fred Nuechterlein, Richard Ortner, and Emil List.
Stay tuned for the next 7 Stained Glass Murals. All the stained glass murals in this series are available for viewing to all guests located in the Conference Center of the Bavarian Inn Lodge.
