The history behind the gates.....

I saw a post on this venue over a year ago, and put it on my "bucket list" of venues to visit. The charm of the building and the "Story" behind it intrigued me. I messaged Janelle Meyer-Brown, who also owns evenement an event planning business, and she responded that I was more than welcome to come take a look. We decided on a date and I thought the morning light would be most conducive to the entrance as it faces the east. With a Kringle in hand I went to her wedding venue, Story Hill Firehouse, and was met by Janelle who was gracious enough to share so much about this location.

Located just a short distance off the freeway and American Family Field, it was easy to get to and plenty of parking available,

Janelle purchased it in 2018 and set on renovating it into exactly what she envisioned. They created a bar from old lockers (creating space for the women's restroom), put in new ceilings, carriage doors, sprinkler system, and updated heating and AC. In the process many pieces and artifacts of the original firehouse were incorporated in the decor. Such as, the firepole that is in the bar area, and the pike pole which now is the curtain rod, the call box where you can charge your cell phone, and the lockers in the hallway leading to the restrooms which are adorned with fire hoses! The previous owner, Andy Paremski, was a stained glass artisan and he made a beautiful stained glass inset in the front arch window.

The venue offers a kitchen for catering prep, an outdoor ceremony space, and indoor ceremony and reception space. The beautiful carriage doors open for more space and lighting and wonderful photo opportunities.

The bungalow style firehouse was originally built in 1927, this was one of five of this type firehouse in the Milwaukee area. All five remain (one as an active firehouse), and they all were originally designed by Charles Malig, with the goal of integrating firehouse engine architecture into residential neighborhoods. Some had entry area porches, such as this one, Engine 35, which adds to its charm and appeal.

Once the renovation was done in 2019, Janelle was ready to open her new wedding venue, but the pandemic made that a challenge, she was open with limitations and had her first event in July 2020. Later in November everything shut down, but she persevered and re-opened in March of 2021. The space is able to accomodate 150-200 people. If you are looking for a space with charm, history and unique character, (even a custom made birdhouse by Janelle) visit Stone Hill Firehouse! Click the link to check out the styled shoot video by Premier Bride Milwaukee: Video link to styled shoot below.