W
est Bend, WI – The new Farm Store at Schmidt Century Farm offers a brighter shopping atmosphere and more space to support local farmers. However, upon closer inspection, you'll find remnants of history from the sixth-generation farm, signature pieces from the Schmidt family lineage, and treasured touchstones that carry on the tradition of farm and family importance.
Co-owner Deanna Schmidt welcomes customers to the new store, which sits in the middle of a working farm producing grass-fed Black Angus Beef, Duroc/Berkshire Pork, and Poultry. The 2-story red-sided building features an old cement garden goose named Gertie at its entrance, repurposed from Deanna's mother-in-law's property.
Inside, you'll find sentimental pieces like the old barn board windowsills salvaged from a nearby building called the Puzzle Shop. Deanna and her husband Roger initially opened the Farm Store in their garage five years ago, but it quickly outgrew its space due to word-of-mouth popularity for their packaged bacon and steaks.
The new store showcases not only the family's hard work but also significant pieces of farm history, including a rustic watercolor painting by Deanna's friend Carrie and historic photos of the farmhouse. A large ledger found in the attic details every purchase made on the farm from the early 1900s, providing a glimpse into the past.
The Schmidt family has been working tirelessly to expand their business and better serve the community. The new Farm Store features a huge shopping area, state-of-the-art commercial kitchen, heated tractor maintenance shop, and large meeting space. With its radiant in-floor heat and soon-to-be completed drywall, the store is nearly ready for its grand opening.
The Schmidts' journey began with hosting farm open houses and selling meat at local markets. As their business grew, they realized the need for more space to accommodate customers and showcase local products. The new Farm Store will feature a cozy porch, open balcony, and increased capacity for local vendors.
Stop by the Schmidt Century Farm at 5485 St. Anthony Road in West Bend, WI, and experience the shopping area, commercial kitchen, and meeting space firsthand. Meet Deanna, Roger, Vanessa, Rodee, and Harley, who would love to welcome you to their new store.
