History, architecture, and great food—what better way to spend an afternoon? Join the Door County Historical Society (DCHS) on Saturday, March 22, at Samuelson’s Creek Pub and Grill in Sturgeon Bay for our next Dine & Discover Luncheon. This month, we’re diving into the remarkable career of William Bernhard, an architect whose work helped shape Door County’s landscape.
We’re thrilled to welcome Jeff O’Keeffe from the Ephraim Historical Foundation as our guest speaker. He’ll share insights into Bernhard’s life, training, and the lasting impact of his designs, many of which still stand today.
Event Details
📅 Date: Saturday, March 22
📍 Location: Samuelson’s Creek Pub and Grill, Sturgeon Bay
🕦 Doors Open: 11:30 a.m.
🥗 Lunch Served: 12:00 p.m. (Soup, Salad & Sandwiches)
🎤 Program Begins After Lunch
💰 Cost: $40 per person | $35 for DCHS members
📅 Reservation Deadline: March 14
Who Was William Bernhard?
Born in Russia and trained in Germany, William Bernhard brought his architectural expertise to the Midwest, where he left his mark on Chicago and Door County between the 1920s and 1940s. His work blends European influences with the natural beauty of Wisconsin, creating designs that remain historically significant today. Some of his most notable projects include:
🏡 His personal residence, “Svea” (1920) in Ephraim
🏛️ Ephraim Village Hall (1926)
🏰 Door County Historical Museum (1937)
Thanks to the Ephraim Historical Foundation, an extensive archive of Bernhard’s architectural plans, sketches, and designs—over 200 in total—continues to offer a window into his creative process and contributions.
Why Attend?
If you love learning about local history, historic preservation, and architectural design, this event is a must! It’s also a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow history lovers and support the work of the Door County Historical Society. Seats are limited, so be sure to reserve your spot before March 14!
Your attendance helps us continue preserving Door County’s rich history. We hope to see you there!