A Bit of History

History of 123

A Storied Landmark: The Evolution of 123 South Washington Nestled in the heart of St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin, 123 South Washington stands as a testament to the town's rich history and adaptive spirit. From its inception in the early 20th century to its current incarnation as a charming vacation rental and event venue, this building has continually evolved to meet the needs of the community 1906: The Original Firehall Constructed in 1906, the building originally served as St. Croix Falls' first firehall, providing essential fire protection services to the burgeoning town. Its establishment marked a significant step in the town's development, ensuring safety and fostering growth. 1960s: Transformation into Municipal Hub In the early 1960s, recognizing the need for expanded civic facilities, the building underwent significant renovations to become the official municipal center. It housed various city services, including the Police Department, Library, Bond Court, Fire Department, and City Administration Offices, becoming the administrative heartbeat of St. Croix Falls. 1970s–1990s: A Commercial Renaissance As the town's needs shifted, so did the building's purpose. Over the next few decades, it embraced a commercial identity, hosting a variety of businesses: A Sears and Roebuck Outlet Store, bringing retail convenience to locals. A pharmacy, providing essential health services. A newspaper processing and packing plant, contributing to regional journalism. A beauty shop, offering personal care services. The Red Brick Grill Restaurant, becoming a local dining favorite. 2005: Artistic Revival with Chach’Ka Gift & Design Shop In 2005, artist and entrepreneur Christine Carmeli acquired the property, infusing it with creative energy. She established the Chach’Ka Gift & Design Shop and Café, introducing distinctive artistic features. 2019: Emergence as a Boutique Vacation Destination Building on its artistic legacy, the property was reimagined in 2019 to offer bespoke vacation rentals and event spaces. The renovation emphasized comfort and style, featuring: 2023: Reopening as a Private Event Venue In 2023, 123 South Washington embraced its role as a community gathering place, reopening as a private event venue. Its historic charm and versatile spaces make it an ideal setting for weddings, retreats, and celebrations.