1842 Bavarian Brew House

Nestled in charming and historic Galena this beautiful home was built in 1842 by brewer Peter Specht from Bavaria. The cellar operated as his brewery and tavern while living in the home above. The house was extensively renovated in 2008. It remains full of character and charm, but now boasts an abundance of modern comforts. A quiet private patio and yard are the perfect spot for a morning coffee or a glass of wine. All within a few walkable blocks to Main Street, the heart of Galena!

This spacious home was built 19 years before the Civil War! Photographs of the house are in the Library of Congress in Washington DC and it has been awarded the prestigious Jo Mead Historic Preservation Award.

Begin by noticing the hitching post and large stone placed by the front door to assist those when exiting their carriage. The off- street parking leads to the current garage that is locked, but you can peek in the windows to see this historic structure. This space was once the summer kitchen, built to avoid overheating the home, and still has the fireplace, bread warming oven, and 1847 date etched into the wall.

As you enter the back door to the house you will find a patio complete with comfortable furniture, fire feature, gas grill, and glowing party lights. There is also a shaded grassy back yard which deer visit year round.

The previous tavern, which is now the cellar, has natural light, hot water heated floors, a dry bar, an electric fireplace, shuffleboard table, and seating area perfect to play a game and share an icy beer as Peter Specht intended.

You will find the original woodwork, wood floors, and stairway in the 2400 square foot home. The wide Southern Pine floors are over 175 years old and remain gorgeous. There is a dining room, living room with gas fireplace, modern kitchen with island, walk in pantry and eat-in seating. The kitchen is fully equipped including a coffee pot as well as a Kuerig. The laundry room, and half bath are on the first floor as well.

The three bedrooms have large comfortable beds. The master has a king bed, bathroom with marble counter top, heated towel rack, walk in closet, and massage therapy shower. The second bedroom also has a king bed. The third bedroom has a queen bed and its own gas fireplace, and a beautifully detailed ceiling. A full bath which includes a shower and tub is also on this floor directly across the hall from the two bedrooms.

Central air, hot water heated floors, free Wi Fi, and access to Netflix all will make your stay more comfortable. Take a few moments to look at the wall of photographs that line the hallway. These provide many ideas of experiences to have, places to visit, and areas to dine or enjoy a beverage or cocktail while in Galena.

Our home is located in a historic, peaceful neighborhood with an abundance of trees and nature. It is directly off of highway 20. Luckily most eating, dining, music, shopping, and activities are just a few blocks away making this the perfect spot for your stay!