From Saloons to Event Spaces: The Enduring Legacy of Milwaukee’s Historic Breweries

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, once boasted a thriving brewery scene, home to industry giants like Miller, Schlitz, Pabst, and Blatz. Whereas the brewing landscape has evolved, the physical remnants of this era—particularly the “tied houses” associated with these breweries—continue to shape the city’s architecture and community spaces. Many of these former saloons have been creatively repurposed, finding new life as restaurants, cafes, and event venues, preserving a piece of Milwaukee’s rich history.

The Rise of Milwaukee’s Brewing Industry

By 1950, four of the ten largest brewers in the United States—Pabst, Miller, Schlitz, and Blatz—called Milwaukee home. These breweries didn’t just produce beer; they also established “tied houses”—saloons that were contractually obligated to primarily sell their brands. These establishments were strategically located and often designed to promote the brewery’s products.

Amani Place: A Modern Transformation of a Historic Tied House

A recent example of this transformation is Amani Place, an events venue located at 401 N. 35th St. In Milwaukee. Owner Briana Redmond purchased the building approximately three years ago and has revitalized the space while honoring its past. The building, originally a tied house associated with Miller Brewing Company, dates back to at least 1910, though city records initially indicated a construction date of 1911.

Early History: Eckhoff & Omlor Saloon

Prior to becoming Amani Place, the building housed the Eckhoff & Omlor Saloon, operated by William Eckhoff and Stephen Omlor as early as 1910. By 1917, William Eckhoff was the sole proprietor. A Miller Brewing Company spreadsheet from that year reveals the saloon’s financial details: a book value of $8,934.36 and rent payable to the brewery of $893.43 (10% of the value). Sales consisted of $515 worth of keg beer and $15 in bottled beer.

Prohibition and Beyond

The advent of Prohibition in 1920 forced the saloon to adapt, reclassifying as a “soft drink parlor.” Interestingly, an advertisement placed by Eckhoff in 1920 seeking a bartender sparked curiosity, as it appeared shortly after Prohibition laws took effect. Eckhoff explained he simply needed help managing the increased business despite the shift to non-alcoholic beverages.

By 1922, the saloon was operated by Blaz Jahopichek, who quickly ran afoul of the law, being arrested for possessing alleged moonshine. Jahopichek continued to own the building, renting it to various operators, including Frank Nolan and Harry Passage, throughout the 1920s. After the repeal of Prohibition, Jahopichek returned to the liquor business, operating a wholesale operation from the building.

Later Years and the Stadium Inn

The building subsequently became known as the Stadium Inn, with various owners and operators over the decades. The Cmeyla family took over in the early 1980s, briefly renaming it E. Elmo Pfudpuckers. Later, it operated as DBR’s Sports Bar & Grill and Christy’s Home Cookin’ before eventually becoming vacant.

Amani Place Today

Redmond has renovated the space, adding a stage, new flooring, and a small bar. She also plans to activate the outdoor space with music and events. Amani Place currently hosts birthday parties, baby showers, line dancing, and open mic nights, continuing the building’s tradition as a community gathering place.

The Legacy of Schlitz

The Joseph Schlitz Brewing Company, founded in 1849, was once the largest producer of beer in the United States. Ownership passed to Joseph Schlitz in 1858 through marriage. The brand is now owned by Blue Ribbon Partners of San Antonio. Schlitz was acquired by Stroh Brewery Company in 1982 and subsequently sold to Pabst Brewing Company in 1999.