STURGEON BAY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – History was on the move in Sturgeon Bay as 68-foot tall building rolled to its new location Thursday morning.
But before the historic grain elevator could get to its new site, it had to trek half a mile which included a trip over the Oregon Street Bridge.
Hours before sunrise, utility crews cleared the way, before the six-story-tall Teweles and Brandeis Granary could be moved.
Last fall, the Sturgeon Bay Fire Chief determined the 115-year old building to be unsafe, and the Common Council voted to dismantle it.
An anonymous donor offered about $1.25 million to rebuild the granary on its current site.
An idea to move the building had the support of the council and the donor.
Christie Weber, Sturgeon Bay Historical Society President, says they helped coordinate the deal, buying the granary for less than $100,000.
“He had to adjust his plan from a demolition plan, to a restoration plan.”
Permits were secured, and within weeks, the plan was in motion to move the historic elevator.
“40 feet wide, 50 feet long, and 60 feet tall.”
Pat Drury, of Drury Designs, Inc, says crews used remote control to guide the 64-wheeler across the thousand foot Oregon Street Bridge.
“We got about 300,000 pounds or just a biscuit under. So there are 300,000 pounds there. It will handle bridges, it’s laid out with all different wheels, so that distributes the weight.”
Crowds gathered to take it all in.
“I think it’s a unique experience. Something you probably won’t see in your lifetime,” said Gary Soule.
“I’m surprised they could move it, really. Should be interesting to see what happens to it over here,” said June Schipper.
“This is definitely going to change the look on this side of the channel. I think the jury is still out as to what’s going to transpire,” said Dave Riva.
After some more maneuvering, the granary was across and soon settled at its new address at Oregon Street and First Avenue.
“It will stand on its own as an icon forever more now,” said Weber.
The Sturgeon Bay Historical Society says the granary will remain a historic landmark, and will likely be used for public events.
The structure may be moved again, so crews can restore the foundation.
