Wausau Pilot & Review
The city will soon have a newly renovated ballroom and event space in the heart of downtown, part of a multi-faceted renovation that began with The Wausau Museum of Contemporary Art.
The Wausau Club building, on the National Register of Historic Places, stands as a beacon of transformation and prosperity. The esteemed Wausau Club venue, originally founded in 1901 by the city’s visionary lumber barons, will blossom once again, reigniting its legacy of elegance and community spirit at 309 McClellan St.
Today, this iconic establishment is being meticulously restored, not just as a premier event space but as a cornerstone of economic and cultural rejuvenation in downtown Wausau.
The Wausau Club’s re-opening is a tribute to its founders, whose pioneering spirit and dedication laid the foundations of the city’s prosperity. Their legacy is now being honored through a remarkable renovation, transforming the second floor into an opulent venue for celebrations and gatherings. This project intertwines Wausau’s history with a promising future, creating a space where every detail, from the luxuriant lounges to the grand ballroom, whispers stories of bygone eras.
This majestic transformation extends its impact far beyond world-class art and architectural beauty. It’s a catalyst for economic growth, infusing the city with vitality and drawing visitors to explore, dine, and revel in the city’s offerings. The project’s success is a testament to the unwavering support of community pillars like The Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin, the B.A. & Esther Greenheck Foundation, The Ray & Marie Goldbach Foundation, Rocket Industrial, and countless private benefactors. Their commitment symbolizes a shared vision for a thriving downtown…the heart of Wausau.
David Hummer, the visionary behind this renaissance, envisions The Wausau Club as a vital contributor to the city’s economic and cultural landscape. Every event held within its walls not only supports local businesses but also enriches the city’s already vibrant arts scene. In this spirit, 100% of the profits from the Wausau Club event space will directly benefit the Wausau Museum of Contemporary Art, helping to create an endowment for years of artistic magnificence and cultural enrichment.
This commitment to art and community is seamlessly integrated into Wausau’s diverse cultural tapestry, complementing local institutions like the Woodson Art Museum and the Center for Visual Arts (CVA). As The Wausau Club prepares to open its doors in the fall of 2024, it stands not just as a venue but as a symbol of unity, progress, and the enduring power of art to invigorate and transform communities.
The community is invited to join in this exciting journey, where every celebration at The Wausau Club is not only a cherished memory but also a step towards a more prosperous future for Wausau. Be part of this legacy, where the echoes of the past meet the dreams of tomorrow, creating an inspirational symphony of culture, community, and economic growth.
ABOUT DAVID HUMMER, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
David Hummer’s artwork hangs on the walls of places like the home of President George W. Bush in Texas; the Washington, D.C. office of James P. Hoffa, General President of the International Teamsters; Acuity Insurance Headquarters in Sheboygan, WI; Church Mutual in Milwaukee, WI, as well as numerous other corporate and private collections around the world. He has been in the full-time business of successfully creating and selling fine art (of his own and others) for over 35 years. He has owned several galleries, including the new D Anthony in downtown Wausau, and has passionately led the revitalization of the historic Wausau Club building into an internationally recognized museum of contemporary art over the past 7 years.
ABOUT THE WAUSAU MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART
The Wausau Museum of Contemporary Art is a place where people from Northern Wisconsin can experience the work and ideas of artists – both living and deceased – to understand the historical, social and cultural context of the art of our time. WMOCA integrates exhibitions, performances, collections, and educational programs to excite, challenge, and enlighten our visitors.
