Sept. 11, 2018 – West Bend, WI – Can you identify this storefront in downtown West Bend?
On Monday contractors tore off the facade. Plans are in the works to bring a new look to the building with large storefront windows, gooseneck lighting and a decorative arched window up top.
The building is still stamped with ‘Pilot’ above the second floor window.
According to “The Spirit of West Bend” by Dorothy E. Williams the building “at the foot of Hickory Street still bears the name “The Pilot” on the front.”
It was once home to the community newspaper the “West Bend Pilot” owned by Jacob Kaempfer.
Prior to 1907 the paper was called the “Democrat.”
Kevin Schultz, owner of Mountain Outfitters, owns the Pilot building and the two brick buildings to the north.
Please add to the obit. of Michael James Schiller of August 30th posting:
A memorial service will be held for Michael James Schiller at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran church, 6869 Wildwood Rd, West Bend, WI on Saturday Sept. 22, 2018 at 11:00 a.m.
The Pilot newspaper was owned by my great grandfather, Henry B. Kaempfer and later by my grandfather Henry C. Kaempfer. Jacob Kaempfer was my great uncle but didn’t own the paper. My mom has a lot more info on all of this if you would like to talk to her let me know.
Yes – love to talk to her Laurie. Judy
Thank you Cousin Laurie for correcting the error.