NEW GLARUS — After buying the historic building in 2024, The New Glarus Hotel Group is swiftly but meticulously bringing the hotel back to life.

Originally built in 1853, the hotel is an enduring center of cultural and community life in New Glarus. And now, after it has remained vacant for some time, the new owners are hoping to continue the tradition — with an eye on reopening the building by year’s end.

Construction is well underway with Bachmann Construction contracted to do the extensive work. According to documents distributed by the community-supported group behind the project, the goal is to: “think Wisconsin supper club tradition meets Swiss Alpine heritage — unhurried evenings, good food, live music, and the kind of hospitality that feels personal. This isn’t a theme. It’s what this building has always been.”

In addition to eight “boutique” hotel rooms on the buildings’ third floor, other distinct spaces are being created. Known variously as The Yodel Room, Fondue Stube and downstairs lounge, such rooms can accommodate groups for rehearsal dinners, celebrations, milestone events — or for just a nightcap after a night out.

The hotel is on the National Registry of Historic Places, and was recently added to the State Register of Historic Places. Robert “Robbie” Schneider, who owned the building from the 1960s to the 1970s, was a crucial leader in transforming the area after local dairy plants closed and many residents lost their jobs. His vision was to turn New Glarus into a cultural tourism destination by emphasizing it as a center for Swiss heritage and culture.

In the process of the renovation, the owners have discovered some welcome surprises, such as original velvet damask wallpaper, terrazzo floors beneath decades of carpet, and artifacts spanning more than a century.

Those interested in the hotel and its role in the community, can follow the renovation progress on the group’s Facebook page.