Black Bear Supper Club - ErinThe Black Bear Supper Club



 
 

Back in 1946, the Black Bear Supper Club in rural Augusta was built by Archie and Lil Buell.  It has changed hands several times before reaching its current owner, Chuck Witte, who’s owned it twice, and has been the owner since 1989.  Here’s the rest of the story...

In 1953, the Mill’s brothers, John, Gordon and Hugh (the Buell’s nephews) bought the Bear, and then sold it in 1960 to Chuck Witte’s grandmother, Caroline Taylor.  A year later, she sold it to Kenny Nelson, who owned it until 1967.  Nelson sold it to Don Hopkins, who sold it two years later to Sam and Judy Rineck.  A year later, in 1970, this was sold to Cliff Bucholz.  Lloyd Smith purchased it in 1972, and sold it a year later to Dean De Busman and Dean Ginther.  In 1975, Chuck Witte bought it (the first time).  He had started washing dishes at the Bear in 1970 while he was going to U.W. Stout for a Restaurant/Hotel Management degree.

A year after Witte graduated, he bought the supper club and owned it for  12 years. In 1987, he sold it to John and Rita Reissner and moved to Washington, DC.  The Reissner’s owned it a year, and sold it to Paula Mullins.  In 1989, Witte found out it was for sale, came back to Wisconsin, and has owned it ever since.

The Black Bear gained its name due to the several stuffed black bears displayed inside.  Two stuffed bear cubs (their mother was killed by a car, so they were euthanized by a local vet some 50 years ago), one shot years ago by Pork Warner and a trophy from Witte’s brother adorn the interior.  The walls display Indian and bear artwork, and a Christmas tree is up year ‘round.  It is beautifully decorated depending on the season--Packers, Fourth of July, fishing, back to school, Christmas, etc...

The 104 year old authentic tin ceiling was taken out of the Rodell Tavern several years ago, re-assembled, and painted black.  It adds character to the dining area and bar.

Witte was on the front of the Milwaukee Journal’s Wisconsin section in 1995, and the Black Bear was featured as one of the best supper clubs in Wisconsin.  He can be usually be found working the front door as host, and sometimes tends bar.

The Black Bear is located 5 miles north of Augusta on Hwy. 27, and seats 165.  Dinners are served with homemade soup or salad, fresh rolls and butter, a large veggie tray which includes Eleanor’s rice pudding, a real treat.  Known for great ribs, fish and chicken, the Black Bear hosts many parties, wedding receptions and reunions with it’s back (and private) dining area.

To make reservations, call 715-286-2687.  Hours are 5 to 10 p.m. Tues. through Thurs., 5 to 11p.m. Fri. and Sat. and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sun.  (Open Mondays between Memorial Day and Labor Day, and for private parties)

The next time you’re near the Lake Eau Claire/Augusta area, be sure to stop at the Black Bear. Remember, whenever you eat some of Chuck’s food, you just want to have some more!

By

and Mom