Discover Bates 815
History
From neglect to new life, a vision transformed this once abandoned building into a place of joy and celebration.
The Legacy of The Bates Building
Built in 1903 by George Bates, a father of 12 and husband to Anna Marx, The Bates Building has been a cornerstone of Cashton’s history for more than a century. Collaborating with the esteemed La Crosse architectural firm AE Parkinson & Dockendorff, Bates had a vision of creating a beautiful, multifunctional space at the heart of the community. Over the years, The Bates Building housed a variety of businesses, from a store and dressmaking shop to a restaurant and even Cashton’s Post Office from 1905 to 1907. Throughout its history, it also served as the home to several taverns and restaurants.
Now, in tribute to George Bates and his original vision, The Bates Building has been relaunched as Bates 815, named after its historic location at 815 Main Street. This transformation reflects a new chapter for the building, blending its rich history with modern amenities.
Restoring the Heart of Cashton
By the time Mary and Kurt Janzen discovered The Bates Building, it was in desperate need of restoration. Though beautiful, the building had fallen into disrepair, with holes in the floor, peeling wallpaper, and chipped paint. But where others saw a building on the verge of being forgotten, Mary and Kurt saw potential.
Kurt, with over 25 years of experience in carpentry, and Mary, an entrepreneurial visionary, took on the challenge of restoring this historic gem. Together, they revitalized the space, breathing new life into it. Today, Bates 815 stands as a revived and refreshed venue, ready to host events and continue its role as a cornerstone of the Cashton community.
A New Era: Introducing Bates 815
Now launched as Bates 815, the building offers a beautiful venue space for events, from family reunions and milestone birthdays to corporate offsites. In addition to the event space, Bates 815 includes five thoughtfully designed short-term rental units, providing a convenient and comfortable place for guests to stay just steps away from the festivities.
The transformation of Bates 815 represents not only the building’s renewal but also its continued importance to the community—a place where memories are made, and history continues to unfold.
The Visionaries: Mary and Kurt Janzen
Behind the revitalization of Bates 815 are Mary and Kurt Janzen, a dynamic husband-and-wife team with a shared passion for bringing their visions to life. Kurt, the owner of Charlie’s Carpentry Inc., has spent over 30 years mastering the craft of carpentry in the agricultural, commercial, and residential sectors. His expertise in restoration was critical to the project, ensuring the building was both structurally sound and beautiful.
Mary’s entrepreneurial drive and knack for managing complex projects brought the vision for Bates 815 to fruition. Together, their commitment to their community and their shared work ethic transformed a neglected historic building into a place where new memories can be made and celebrations of all kinds can thrive.
Location
815 Main Street
Cashton, WI 54619
2nd Thought Rentals LLC
© 2024 Bates 815. All Rights Reserved.