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ABOUT US
HISTORIC PARKIN PLACE
Home of West 14th Restaurant (upper level) and
Blue Heron BrewPub (lower level)
Welcome to Parkin Place! Built in 1941 by a prominent Marshfield family as a
dairy processing plant, this building served Marshfield until the family business
was sold in 1966. Some of you may remember the "Susie Bar" or "Todd Twins"; these
dairy desserts were named after Susie and Todd Parkin, the grandchildren of Wilbur
Parkin and children of John and Clyle Parkin. In addition to being a "state of the
art ice cream facility", Wisconsin dairy politics was also a part of this building's
past. The "Milk Wars" fought here in Marshfield between grocery retailers and the
local dairy producers helped consolidate the modern dairy cooperatives today. The
organization that John Parkin helped to start is the same organization that, today,
brings us the famous "Got Milk?" campaign and other promotional efforts.
Parkin Dairy was noted for the elegant molded ice cream desserts that were made to
order and featured regularly at parties and dinners around Marshfield. Some of
these original, unique molds are displayed here today because of the generous loan
of the Parkin family. Some day we may have the courage to actually try and use the
mold, and provide you with a nostalgic ice cream dessert.
Nothing lasts forever, either people or buildings. After the dairy facilities
were sold and closed down, the building served as a storage facility, home for a
bar, shops, and an apartment. With no specific purpose, gradual deterioration
occurred. In 2004, we decided to restore and revitalize the old brick structure into
a modern brew pub and restaurant facility. We have developed a dining complex that literally has something for everyone - all
under one roof. The building has been entirely renovated and upgraded to conform
to community needs and modern safety codes. Accessibility to both West 14th (located
upstairs) and Blue Heron BrewPub (downstairs) is available to all ages and levels of
need. Private dining areas are available for small groups of up to 45 or for more
intimate groups of 8 to 10. (These areas can be reserved by calling during business
hours.)
When we opened in 2005, we were privileged to be associated with several local brewers who resided in Junction City, WI. With their help, unique
beers were crafted for brewing and distribution exclusively at our BrewPub. Honey Blonde, Tiger's Eye, and Parkin's Pilz, remain our signature
beers today, along with other original recipes that are rotated through the tap lines. As we have grown and as other business interests have
developed, there has been a transition in brewing personnel. In October, 2008 our brew pub changed its name from Central Waters BrewPub to the
Blue Heron BrewPub to acquire a brewer designated exclusively for handcrafted brewing at our facility. Travis Skroch, our current brewer, is
accomplished at crafting original beers from our own recipes with expertise. He has introduced some amazing beers, and will continue to introduce
new beers for your tasting and enjoyment.
The past 4 years have brought many changes; names change, personnel change, and menus
change. One thing does not change - our commitment to you, our patrons and friends.
Great food and good beverages served with Central Wisconsin hospitality are our goals.
Now, sit back, relax, and enjoy a pint, lunch, an appetizer, or dinner. Appreciate the
companionship of friends or family. We want your experience at our establishments to
be thoroughly enjoyable and comfortably satisfying.
Your hosts:
Tom and Paula Hinke
Paul and Rita Meier
Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.
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