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LOFT TOUR
Have you ever thought, "This is a unique building, I wonder what the upstairs looks like?!" Well, this event is for you! Spend the day touring 8 unique, historic buildings in downtown Madison.
TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE | OCT. 4TH 2025
EVENT FAQ
The Loft Tour, hosted by Madison Main Street, is a biennial event that is held the first Saturday of October in downtown Madison from 10 AM to 4 PM. This event is not only a fundraiser for Madison Main Street, but it is your chance to see downtown from a new perspective. Loft Tour sites range from polished and fully furnished, renovated spaces to completely raw, untouched floor plans, full of potential. The goal of the Loft Tour is to engage the community with the upper stories or spaces tucked away in downtown Madison.
If I purchased my tickets online, where do I pick them up?
Please check in and pick up your Loft Tour tickets from the MMSP office located 321 W Main Street.
Can I purchase tickets the day of the event?
Yes! We suggest you start the tour no later than 12 PM, and we will stop selling tickets at this time. You can purchase your Loft Tour tickets from the MMSP office located 321 W Main Street.
How long does the tour last?
Depending on your pace, the tour will take at least 2 hours. The tour is walkable. We highly recommend to rent a golf cart and have fun while you are here!
Is the tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?
Most sites are not handicapped accessible and not stroller accessible. The tour is best suited for adults.
Do I have to complete the tour in a particular order?
You may complete the tour in any order you like. We do have a suggested route on the Loft Tour Ticket.
Where is the hospitality site?
Thank you to Timeless Live for providing hospitality for this event! Find restrooms at their location on Main Street (217 E Main St, Madison, IN. 47250) There are also public restrooms located at the Comfort Station, just 2 blocks East of the office.
THANK YOU SPONSORS!
PRESENTING SPONSOR:
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SITE SPONSORS:
J.R. Harrell Coldwell Banker Harrell Associates
Jenner, Pattison, & Sharpe
Brenda Eversole, Broker/ Century 21
Jessica Butler, Managing Broker, Legacy Land Use & Realty
Ruoff Mortgage
Riverwest Antique Mall
2025 TOUR SITES
Get to know each of the Loft Tour sites a bit more! Read and click on the histories of each site to learn more. Thank you to our volunteers, Laura Hodges and Happy Smith for collecting this information!
1. Helton Eye Care (713 W Main Street)
Helton Eye Care, located at 713-715 W. Main St., was originally constructed around 1870 as a duplex residence in the Craftsman style. The building retains its original two-over-two double-hung windows, a central brick chimney, and a full-width front porch. In 2023, the Helton family purchased the property, which had been partially remodeled, and transformed it into professional offices for the optometry practice on the first floor, with an apartment above. The first floor had historically been side-by-side residences, and the upstairs was originally unfinished. During the renovation, evidence of a fire was discovered. One well known former resident of 713 W. Main St. was Thomas P. Vincent, the owner of Vincent’s Grocery. That grocery was located just down the street at 631 W. Main St. – the present site of The Attic/Coffee Mill Café. That building is also on the 2025 Loft Tour.
2. The Attic Coffee Mill & Cafe (631 W Main Street)
The building that now welcomes guests as The Attic/Coffee Mill Café was built in the 1850s. The simple brick building was designed in the Federal style with Italianate influences. That cast iron façade so familiar to generations of Attic customers wasn’t added until 1901. It was made by the Madison Machine Company.
The structure is a two-part commercial block with a foundation of parged (cement coated) rubblestone. The side gable roof features a decorative cornice with brackets and dentils. The historic wood windows have one-over-one double hung sashes. The building retains original shelving from its prior use as a grocery store.
The rear portion of the building (322 Mill St.) is a 1901 addition. It has an open passageway leading to a former carriage house with an iron arch and gate at the entry.
Ove the years, several businesses have operated here.
In the 1923 city directory, it was occupied by the Cofield-Barber Co., a grocery wholesaler started by George W. Cofield and William A. Barber in 1906. At one point later in the 1920s, this building housed the Miller Grocery and Bakery. T.P. Vincent’s Groceries opened around the year 1930.
Margie Webb of Madison lived as a child in an apartment upstairs from Vincent’s Grocery, according to an article in RoundAbout Madison. Ms. Webb went on to establish a business nearly as long-lived as The Attic -- Margie’s Country Store at 721 W. Main Street. It closed in 2022 after 51 years in business.
Bob and Irene List opened The Attic in the spring of 1971. It was originally a gift store featuring art prints and custom framing. During the 1970s, the Lists’ daughter, Judy George, and her husband Phil took over The Attic. Later still, after Phil George’s death, Judy’s children joined her in the business.
In 1993, the Coffee Mill Café was added, offering tea, treats and food items. Chip George learned the craft of coffee roasting and added that to the business. The Attic/Coffee Mill Café celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2021. The business has been named Small Business of the Year by the Madison Area Chamber of Commerce.
Since 2024, The Attic/Coffee Mill Cafe has been owned by Chris and Lindsey Hornbrook. They have recently refreshed the interior of the store, and are strengthening the establishment’s brand by emphasizing its core products – coffee and tea. In a nod to the building’s former use, one of the custom blended coffees is called Vincent’s.
Last year breakfast was added, and the Hornbrooks continue to try out new ideas. Brunch is served from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sundays. Now, not only can customers eat, drink and shop at the Attic, they can sleep as well. The upstairs bed-and-breakfast offers 2,000 square feet of space, with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. It accommodates eight people comfortably.
The structure is a two-part commercial block with a foundation of parged (cement coated) rubblestone. The side gable roof features a decorative cornice with brackets and dentils. The historic wood windows have one-over-one double hung sashes. The building retains original shelving from its prior use as a grocery store.
The rear portion of the building (322 Mill St.) is a 1901 addition. It has an open passageway leading to a former carriage house with an iron arch and gate at the entry.
Ove the years, several businesses have operated here.
In the 1923 city directory, it was occupied by the Cofield-Barber Co., a grocery wholesaler started by George W. Cofield and William A. Barber in 1906. At one point later in the 1920s, this building housed the Miller Grocery and Bakery. T.P. Vincent’s Groceries opened around the year 1930.
Margie Webb of Madison lived as a child in an apartment upstairs from Vincent’s Grocery, according to an article in RoundAbout Madison. Ms. Webb went on to establish a business nearly as long-lived as The Attic -- Margie’s Country Store at 721 W. Main Street. It closed in 2022 after 51 years in business.
Bob and Irene List opened The Attic in the spring of 1971. It was originally a gift store featuring art prints and custom framing. During the 1970s, the Lists’ daughter, Judy George, and her husband Phil took over The Attic. Later still, after Phil George’s death, Judy’s children joined her in the business.
In 1993, the Coffee Mill Café was added, offering tea, treats and food items. Chip George learned the craft of coffee roasting and added that to the business. The Attic/Coffee Mill Café celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2021. The business has been named Small Business of the Year by the Madison Area Chamber of Commerce.
Since 2024, The Attic/Coffee Mill Cafe has been owned by Chris and Lindsey Hornbrook. They have recently refreshed the interior of the store, and are strengthening the establishment’s brand by emphasizing its core products – coffee and tea. In a nod to the building’s former use, one of the custom blended coffees is called Vincent’s.
Last year breakfast was added, and the Hornbrooks continue to try out new ideas. Brunch is served from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sundays. Now, not only can customers eat, drink and shop at the Attic, they can sleep as well. The upstairs bed-and-breakfast offers 2,000 square feet of space, with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. It accommodates eight people comfortably.
3. Fountain House (402 W Main Street)
Prominently located on the northwest corner of Broadway and Main Street, the Fountain Building is a crown jewel in Madison’s Historic District. This stately brick structure was built in the mid-1800s by steamboat captain Nathan Powell. A man of many accomplishments, Captain Powell was engaged in river trade, the pork-packing industry, and served as President of both the Madison Life, Fire and Marine Insurance Company and the National Branch Bank. He and his wife raised eight children—six sons and two daughters—some of whom are known to have lived in the Fountain Building as adults.
In 2012, native Madisonians Bob and Tammy Courtney acquired the property. By January 2016, they had invested considerable time and resources into preserving Madison’s architectural heritage, with the Fountain Building becoming one of their most visible and celebrated restoration projects. Formerly the Vail-Holt Funeral Home, the building was transformed into an elegant event venue, guest suite, and office space. Bob Courtney is currently Madison’s Mayor.
In 2020, preservationist Ellie Troutman became the new owner, continuing the tradition of restoration and stewardship. Under her care, the building’s historic charm has not only been maintained but enhanced. Notable interior features include:
· Vibrantly painted ceiling medallions that highlight several first-floor light fixtures
· Original fireplaces that offer a glimpse into the home's 19th-century character
· A striking newel post sculpture by New York artist O.L. Warner, depicting a woman holding a lamp to illuminate the staircase
· Distinctive marble sinks tucked into wall niches in two second-floor bedrooms
· A colorful mural along a side corridor featuring many of Madison’s iconic buildings
Most recently, the building welcomed a new chapter with the opening of a bridal shop, Love, Betty, by Ralph London and Juston Preece, who also own two other local clothing boutiques. Their latest venture adds yet another layer of vitality to this storied landmark.
In 2012, native Madisonians Bob and Tammy Courtney acquired the property. By January 2016, they had invested considerable time and resources into preserving Madison’s architectural heritage, with the Fountain Building becoming one of their most visible and celebrated restoration projects. Formerly the Vail-Holt Funeral Home, the building was transformed into an elegant event venue, guest suite, and office space. Bob Courtney is currently Madison’s Mayor.
In 2020, preservationist Ellie Troutman became the new owner, continuing the tradition of restoration and stewardship. Under her care, the building’s historic charm has not only been maintained but enhanced. Notable interior features include:
· Vibrantly painted ceiling medallions that highlight several first-floor light fixtures
· Original fireplaces that offer a glimpse into the home's 19th-century character
· A striking newel post sculpture by New York artist O.L. Warner, depicting a woman holding a lamp to illuminate the staircase
· Distinctive marble sinks tucked into wall niches in two second-floor bedrooms
· A colorful mural along a side corridor featuring many of Madison’s iconic buildings
Most recently, the building welcomed a new chapter with the opening of a bridal shop, Love, Betty, by Ralph London and Juston Preece, who also own two other local clothing boutiques. Their latest venture adds yet another layer of vitality to this storied landmark.
4. Livery Loft (310 Broadway Street)
When this building was constructed in the 1870s, Madison was a city of horses and carriages, not cars. At that time, a livery stable—where horses and carriages were kept—stood here at 310 Broadway. What is now a standard front door was originally a large, arched carriage entrance.
In 1860, Madison had around ten livery stables. This particular one, the Broadway Livery, was owned by Martin Mullen from 1861 until his death in 1891. A local newspaper reported in 1871: “Snow crushes roof of M. Mullen’s Livery on Broadway.”
The current brick structure was likely built shortly after that incident, replacing a large frame building shown at this location on the 1854 Hart and Map other map. It’s quite possible that the 1871 roof collapse led to the construction of the more durable brick building still standing today.
From 1892 to 1909, a second livery proprietor, Frank Hill, owned the property. During his time, transportation in America was rapidly evolving. In 1909, Henry Ford introduced the affordable Model N motorcar, and by 1913, he had revolutionized automobile manufacturing with the first assembly line.
That same year in Madison, Frank and Marguerite Hill sold 310 Broadway to John and Florence Feuerstein. The livery was converted into Feuerstein and Jones’ Garage, reflecting the new automotive era. By 1939, under the ownership of Elmer and Lula Brown, it became known as the Broadway Garage and Transfer Station—a forerunner of today’s moving companies.
In 1947, 310 Broadway changed again, becoming Thompson’s Glass Dairy. For a decade, until 1957, Thompson’s delivered milk in glass bottles via big blue trucks to doorsteps across Madison. The original milk chute, used to load bottles onto the trucks, is still visible on the south side of the building. Many Madison residents still remember the days of fresh milk delivered by a milkman.
The Koehler family acquired the property in 1957, holding it through several generations until 2006. Part of the building served as storage for Koehler Tire, while other sections were rented out. At one point, Frank Mingione operated a plastics manufacturing business here. Later uses included a furniture workshop and an artist’s studio.
In 2018, the building found new life under its current owners, Ronald and Suzanne Hollinger. They have thoughtfully transformed the space into four stylish apartments, including a third-floor loft, while preserving its rich history. The design throughout honors its legacy with a horse and Stablemaster theme—a tribute to the building’s unique past.
In 1860, Madison had around ten livery stables. This particular one, the Broadway Livery, was owned by Martin Mullen from 1861 until his death in 1891. A local newspaper reported in 1871: “Snow crushes roof of M. Mullen’s Livery on Broadway.”
The current brick structure was likely built shortly after that incident, replacing a large frame building shown at this location on the 1854 Hart and Map other map. It’s quite possible that the 1871 roof collapse led to the construction of the more durable brick building still standing today.
From 1892 to 1909, a second livery proprietor, Frank Hill, owned the property. During his time, transportation in America was rapidly evolving. In 1909, Henry Ford introduced the affordable Model N motorcar, and by 1913, he had revolutionized automobile manufacturing with the first assembly line.
That same year in Madison, Frank and Marguerite Hill sold 310 Broadway to John and Florence Feuerstein. The livery was converted into Feuerstein and Jones’ Garage, reflecting the new automotive era. By 1939, under the ownership of Elmer and Lula Brown, it became known as the Broadway Garage and Transfer Station—a forerunner of today’s moving companies.
In 1947, 310 Broadway changed again, becoming Thompson’s Glass Dairy. For a decade, until 1957, Thompson’s delivered milk in glass bottles via big blue trucks to doorsteps across Madison. The original milk chute, used to load bottles onto the trucks, is still visible on the south side of the building. Many Madison residents still remember the days of fresh milk delivered by a milkman.
The Koehler family acquired the property in 1957, holding it through several generations until 2006. Part of the building served as storage for Koehler Tire, while other sections were rented out. At one point, Frank Mingione operated a plastics manufacturing business here. Later uses included a furniture workshop and an artist’s studio.
In 2018, the building found new life under its current owners, Ronald and Suzanne Hollinger. They have thoughtfully transformed the space into four stylish apartments, including a third-floor loft, while preserving its rich history. The design throughout honors its legacy with a horse and Stablemaster theme—a tribute to the building’s unique past.
5. The Old Cinnamon Tea Room (302 West Street)
Built sometime between 1823 and 1835 by James H. Cowden, this striking building has long stood as a fixture of Madison’s architectural and civic history. Originally serving as one of the town’s early post offices, it was advertised for rent in the Madison Courier by 1842 and sold at a sheriff’s sale just a few years later in 1845.
In 1850, the Madison Insurance Company moved in, transforming the first floor into a general banking office that remained active for three decades. Over the years, 302 West evolved with the times - hosting a saloon, soft drink parlor, restaurant, and eventually residential apartments.
The upper floors once housed professional offices, including the law office of Jeremiah Sullivan, a prominent Madison attorney and Indiana Supreme Court judge, who worked here from 1858 to 1870. A major renovation in the late 19th century added the elegant Italianate cornice and Queen Anne-style woodwork still visible on the second floor today.
From 1895 to 1929, Casper and Lena Krum operated a café here, followed by Gale and Mollie Thomas, who ran a wholesale produce business from 1929 to 1937. Later owners Howard and Polly Hall brought new life to the space as the Blue Flamingo Café and Miss Mickie’s Pub from 1965 to 1983. JJ’s Pub followed from 1984 to 1988, and many Madison residents fondly recall its final chapter as the Cinnamon Tea Room, which welcomed guests from 1994 to 2002.
One day soon, 302 West Street will continue to blend historic charm with modern living - an enduring symbol of Madison’s evolving spirit.
In 1850, the Madison Insurance Company moved in, transforming the first floor into a general banking office that remained active for three decades. Over the years, 302 West evolved with the times - hosting a saloon, soft drink parlor, restaurant, and eventually residential apartments.
The upper floors once housed professional offices, including the law office of Jeremiah Sullivan, a prominent Madison attorney and Indiana Supreme Court judge, who worked here from 1858 to 1870. A major renovation in the late 19th century added the elegant Italianate cornice and Queen Anne-style woodwork still visible on the second floor today.
From 1895 to 1929, Casper and Lena Krum operated a café here, followed by Gale and Mollie Thomas, who ran a wholesale produce business from 1929 to 1937. Later owners Howard and Polly Hall brought new life to the space as the Blue Flamingo Café and Miss Mickie’s Pub from 1965 to 1983. JJ’s Pub followed from 1984 to 1988, and many Madison residents fondly recall its final chapter as the Cinnamon Tea Room, which welcomed guests from 1994 to 2002.
One day soon, 302 West Street will continue to blend historic charm with modern living - an enduring symbol of Madison’s evolving spirit.
6. Red Bicycle Hall (125 E Main Street)
Red Bicycle Hall, a venue for Madison’s live music movement since 2013, is located in this three-story brick commercial building. It was probably built in the early 1920s. There is a two-story addition at the rear. The 20th century building replaced an earlier two-story construction, combining two buildings at 125 and 127 E. Main St. into one. This 20th Century commercial building is a contributing resource to Madison’s National Historic Landmark District.
A freight elevator that still raises and lowers loads is at least 100 years old. Other notable features are the pressed metal ceiling in the first floor performance space, original wood floors, exposed brick walls, large pane display windows at street level and the wide transom band of prism glass above the storefront. There are four groups of four upper windows, with transoms and stone sills. Windows are historic wood with one-over-one double-hung sashes. The front door is wood and glass with sidelights and transom. It shares brick walls with the adjoining buildings.
The performance space features 15-foot ceilings, flexible lighting options and ample room to accommodate 120 seated guests. The venue’s tag line is “Keeping Madison Convivial Since 2013.”
The second floor has been used in the past as office space. It is currently used as a green room for performers and residential space. There are no documented uses of the third floor except storage.
There have been a number of uses for the buildings at 125 and 127 E. Main Street, such as grocery, cigar factory and the John Patrakos City Restaurant. The William E. Ogle insurance office was upstairs at 125 ½. In the 1930s, the building housed Edward Eckert & Son, a dealer in stoves, furnaces, hardware, tinware and queensware (a cream-colored earthenware.)
More recently, this was the location of Madison Radio Service, Nick’s Radio Store and Madison TV and Appliance. According to one of the current owners, “Madison TV and Appliance sold the first color TV in Madison to Frank Helt, who lived in the apartment next door (129 E. Main) where Betty Jeffries is now.” Many local residents remember buying their family’s first-ever television sets or their Beatles albums from a store at this location.
Wallace’s Antiques, owned by Robert Wallace, occupied the store from 1988 to 2007. Bob had established the business at another location in 1988. When it moved to Main Street it was the largest antique mall in Madison. A majority of the set pieces for the move Madison were purchased there.
A freight elevator that still raises and lowers loads is at least 100 years old. Other notable features are the pressed metal ceiling in the first floor performance space, original wood floors, exposed brick walls, large pane display windows at street level and the wide transom band of prism glass above the storefront. There are four groups of four upper windows, with transoms and stone sills. Windows are historic wood with one-over-one double-hung sashes. The front door is wood and glass with sidelights and transom. It shares brick walls with the adjoining buildings.
The performance space features 15-foot ceilings, flexible lighting options and ample room to accommodate 120 seated guests. The venue’s tag line is “Keeping Madison Convivial Since 2013.”
The second floor has been used in the past as office space. It is currently used as a green room for performers and residential space. There are no documented uses of the third floor except storage.
There have been a number of uses for the buildings at 125 and 127 E. Main Street, such as grocery, cigar factory and the John Patrakos City Restaurant. The William E. Ogle insurance office was upstairs at 125 ½. In the 1930s, the building housed Edward Eckert & Son, a dealer in stoves, furnaces, hardware, tinware and queensware (a cream-colored earthenware.)
More recently, this was the location of Madison Radio Service, Nick’s Radio Store and Madison TV and Appliance. According to one of the current owners, “Madison TV and Appliance sold the first color TV in Madison to Frank Helt, who lived in the apartment next door (129 E. Main) where Betty Jeffries is now.” Many local residents remember buying their family’s first-ever television sets or their Beatles albums from a store at this location.
Wallace’s Antiques, owned by Robert Wallace, occupied the store from 1988 to 2007. Bob had established the business at another location in 1988. When it moved to Main Street it was the largest antique mall in Madison. A majority of the set pieces for the move Madison were purchased there.
7. Timeless Live (217 E Main Street)
The Empire on Main is not only Madison’s newest event venue, it is also one of the most iconic buildings downtown, having been erected in 1871 and 1872 as a Masonic Temple.
It is one of the few examples of the Second Empire style in Madison. John Temperly, a second generation Madison architect, designed this building with its Mansard roof, fine stone carving around the storefront windows and distinctive central gable. The cornerstone was laid with much fanfare in 1871, and it was completed at a cost of $540,000, using 300,000 locally produced bricks. It has a slate roof, decorative cornice and brackets and historic wood two-over-two double-hung sashes. There are 13 arched dormers above the third level. The building is symmetrical.
The third floor was home of the Union Lodge No. 2 F&AM, the second-oldest Masonic Lodge in Indiana. The Masons occupied the second and third levels from 1872 to 2001.
From the beginning the two sides of the first floor have been used as retail spaces. The earliest known uses were a grocery store and a hardware. By 1905, the hardware at 219 E. Main had been replaced by Clem Hunger’s Feed Store, which soon moved to 301 Jefferson St., another building on the 2025 Loft Tour.
C.H. Rousch sold stationery and other paper goods at the location from 1909-1947. A 1923 city directory asserted, “If it is made of PAPER, you will find it at Rousch’s Book Store.” Rousch’s was replaced by Steinhardt Hanson, an iconic Main Street business for the last half of the 20th century.
Eventually the upper floors were no longer used by the Masons and they were ready to sell the building. Bob Maile (later owner of Rembrandt’s) saw potential and bought the building, but in 2001 he sold to John and Donn Campbell. Over the years, a number of businesses operated at street level: the Primitive Porch, Something Simple, All Ways Pottery and Muddy Fork Antiques among them. Riverrun Theatre Company used the third floor stage for several productions. WOW! What a Find, a furniture store, had a location on several levels until January 2025.
Now the regal structure has been transformed again and renamed The Empire on Main. Little interior work was needed to repurpose the structure into a performance and event venue. On the first floor is Tiki-Live, known for karaoke nights, trivia contests, tacos and beverages. It has pool tables, dart boards and other games. The second floor is currently being used for smaller private parties, such as graduation parties, birthday parties and college reunions. The third floor has been the scene for live music concerts, and hosts weddings, larger parties and sanctioned indoor cornhole tournaments. The features of the historic Masonic building make The Empire on Main uniquely suited for memorable special events.
It is one of the few examples of the Second Empire style in Madison. John Temperly, a second generation Madison architect, designed this building with its Mansard roof, fine stone carving around the storefront windows and distinctive central gable. The cornerstone was laid with much fanfare in 1871, and it was completed at a cost of $540,000, using 300,000 locally produced bricks. It has a slate roof, decorative cornice and brackets and historic wood two-over-two double-hung sashes. There are 13 arched dormers above the third level. The building is symmetrical.
The third floor was home of the Union Lodge No. 2 F&AM, the second-oldest Masonic Lodge in Indiana. The Masons occupied the second and third levels from 1872 to 2001.
From the beginning the two sides of the first floor have been used as retail spaces. The earliest known uses were a grocery store and a hardware. By 1905, the hardware at 219 E. Main had been replaced by Clem Hunger’s Feed Store, which soon moved to 301 Jefferson St., another building on the 2025 Loft Tour.
C.H. Rousch sold stationery and other paper goods at the location from 1909-1947. A 1923 city directory asserted, “If it is made of PAPER, you will find it at Rousch’s Book Store.” Rousch’s was replaced by Steinhardt Hanson, an iconic Main Street business for the last half of the 20th century.
Eventually the upper floors were no longer used by the Masons and they were ready to sell the building. Bob Maile (later owner of Rembrandt’s) saw potential and bought the building, but in 2001 he sold to John and Donn Campbell. Over the years, a number of businesses operated at street level: the Primitive Porch, Something Simple, All Ways Pottery and Muddy Fork Antiques among them. Riverrun Theatre Company used the third floor stage for several productions. WOW! What a Find, a furniture store, had a location on several levels until January 2025.
Now the regal structure has been transformed again and renamed The Empire on Main. Little interior work was needed to repurpose the structure into a performance and event venue. On the first floor is Tiki-Live, known for karaoke nights, trivia contests, tacos and beverages. It has pool tables, dart boards and other games. The second floor is currently being used for smaller private parties, such as graduation parties, birthday parties and college reunions. The third floor has been the scene for live music concerts, and hosts weddings, larger parties and sanctioned indoor cornhole tournaments. The features of the historic Masonic building make The Empire on Main uniquely suited for memorable special events.
8. Vintage Lanes (301 Jefferson Street)
Vintage Lanes and Wine Bar represents a novel way to use a historic building. The building on the northwest corner of Jefferson and Second streets is historically known as Lichtman Hotel, the Eagle Hotel or the Hunger Building.
The three-story commercial structure was built in the 1850s in the Federal style. The structural system is masonry, the foundation is limestone and the windows are historic wood, with one-over-one double hung sashes. About 1900 a cast iron store front with square pilasters was added. There is a two-story addition that has used the address 227 E. Second St.
Madison’s first deed book says John Paul and others sold the lot to John McMillan in 1815 for $82. McMillan sold it two years later for $500. Nicholas Lichtman acquired the deed in 1849. Nicholas was a German man born in France. His 18-room hotel, known as the Lichtman house, became a central gathering place for travelers and residents, including Madison’s large population with German roots. The Lichtman Coffeehouse is named in the first city directory, in 1859-60.
One of the building’s notable features is the third-floor ballroom, which Lichtman called Franklin Hall. This space was used as a meeting place and for hosting grand balls and gatherings, cementing its reputation as a social hub of Madison during the 19th century. The Lichtman family owned and operated the building from 1849-1891. Later it was known as the Farmers Hotel and the Eagle Hotel, operated by several owners, including Peter Bedel, Will Mosser, Perry Clem and John Jager.
In the early part of the 20th century, Clement Hunger had started a feed and seed store in the Masonic Lodge building, 217-219 E. Main St. (That building is also on this 2025 Loft Tour.) It shared the retail space with Rousch bookstore. When his feed store started needing more space in 1906, Hunger purchased the building at 301 Jefferson St. from Nicholas Lichtman’s widow for $2,050, ending its use as a hotel, restaurant and saloon. The Hunger family operated Hunger Feed & Seed Store there until 1988.
In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Madison established its reputation as a center for the arts. In the mid-90s, Jerry and Darlene Yarnetsky purchased 301 Jefferson to provide space for Darlene’s studio and store, Mudcat Pottery. The young couple lived upstairs.
Starting in 1998, artist and sign painter Kevin Carlson rented the back part of the building (227 E. Second St.) The second floor was his art gallery, where he enjoyed large south-facing windows and exposed brick. His sign business operated on the first floor, where the large sliding door made it convenient to pull in vehicles and other large items. Kevin’s wife Kim stated, “We were so pleased that they kept that door when Vintage Lanes renovated and it is mounted on the wall on the second floor bowling area. Original graffiti writings from Kevin’s daughter as a child are still visible.”
After the Carlsons purchased the entire building from the Yarnetskys, they renovated the first floor to use as an art gallery. The second and third floors were their living space. They upgraded the kitchen, refinished the living room floors and divided the third floor into two rooms instead of the one large room that had previously been a dance floor with a band stage at the top of the stairs. They retained the staircase and band stage. “There was even a place in the wood floor of the gallery that was indented from where they stood at the counter at the Hunger Feed Mill, many, many years ago,” said Kim.
In 2023, Matt and Dan Chandler, owners of the Chandler Hotel, began a $1.5 million restoration and reimaging of 301 Jefferson St. as a duckpin bowling alley and wine bar.
Opened in March 2025, Vintage Lanes features eight lanes of duckpin bowling on two floors. It is Madison’s first duckpin bowling center. The venue is family friendly, but also great for date nights or group activities. Bowlers can message the bar to deliver drinks or light refreshments. The adults-only wine bar is refined and relaxed, with occasional live music nights. Guests should take care not to miss the “speakeasy” in the basement just because the entrance is hidden behind a bookcase! The entire operation is cashless.
Just as Nicholas Lichtman welcomed both residents and visitors into his Lichtman House in the mid-1800s, Dan and Matt Chandler delight in offering hospitality to all in their beautifully restored Federal structure.
The three-story commercial structure was built in the 1850s in the Federal style. The structural system is masonry, the foundation is limestone and the windows are historic wood, with one-over-one double hung sashes. About 1900 a cast iron store front with square pilasters was added. There is a two-story addition that has used the address 227 E. Second St.
Madison’s first deed book says John Paul and others sold the lot to John McMillan in 1815 for $82. McMillan sold it two years later for $500. Nicholas Lichtman acquired the deed in 1849. Nicholas was a German man born in France. His 18-room hotel, known as the Lichtman house, became a central gathering place for travelers and residents, including Madison’s large population with German roots. The Lichtman Coffeehouse is named in the first city directory, in 1859-60.
One of the building’s notable features is the third-floor ballroom, which Lichtman called Franklin Hall. This space was used as a meeting place and for hosting grand balls and gatherings, cementing its reputation as a social hub of Madison during the 19th century. The Lichtman family owned and operated the building from 1849-1891. Later it was known as the Farmers Hotel and the Eagle Hotel, operated by several owners, including Peter Bedel, Will Mosser, Perry Clem and John Jager.
In the early part of the 20th century, Clement Hunger had started a feed and seed store in the Masonic Lodge building, 217-219 E. Main St. (That building is also on this 2025 Loft Tour.) It shared the retail space with Rousch bookstore. When his feed store started needing more space in 1906, Hunger purchased the building at 301 Jefferson St. from Nicholas Lichtman’s widow for $2,050, ending its use as a hotel, restaurant and saloon. The Hunger family operated Hunger Feed & Seed Store there until 1988.
In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Madison established its reputation as a center for the arts. In the mid-90s, Jerry and Darlene Yarnetsky purchased 301 Jefferson to provide space for Darlene’s studio and store, Mudcat Pottery. The young couple lived upstairs.
Starting in 1998, artist and sign painter Kevin Carlson rented the back part of the building (227 E. Second St.) The second floor was his art gallery, where he enjoyed large south-facing windows and exposed brick. His sign business operated on the first floor, where the large sliding door made it convenient to pull in vehicles and other large items. Kevin’s wife Kim stated, “We were so pleased that they kept that door when Vintage Lanes renovated and it is mounted on the wall on the second floor bowling area. Original graffiti writings from Kevin’s daughter as a child are still visible.”
After the Carlsons purchased the entire building from the Yarnetskys, they renovated the first floor to use as an art gallery. The second and third floors were their living space. They upgraded the kitchen, refinished the living room floors and divided the third floor into two rooms instead of the one large room that had previously been a dance floor with a band stage at the top of the stairs. They retained the staircase and band stage. “There was even a place in the wood floor of the gallery that was indented from where they stood at the counter at the Hunger Feed Mill, many, many years ago,” said Kim.
In 2023, Matt and Dan Chandler, owners of the Chandler Hotel, began a $1.5 million restoration and reimaging of 301 Jefferson St. as a duckpin bowling alley and wine bar.
Opened in March 2025, Vintage Lanes features eight lanes of duckpin bowling on two floors. It is Madison’s first duckpin bowling center. The venue is family friendly, but also great for date nights or group activities. Bowlers can message the bar to deliver drinks or light refreshments. The adults-only wine bar is refined and relaxed, with occasional live music nights. Guests should take care not to miss the “speakeasy” in the basement just because the entrance is hidden behind a bookcase! The entire operation is cashless.
Just as Nicholas Lichtman welcomed both residents and visitors into his Lichtman House in the mid-1800s, Dan and Matt Chandler delight in offering hospitality to all in their beautifully restored Federal structure.
9. Righteous Brewing (202 Jefferson Street)
In 1877, Joseph Schofield (1817–1886) commissioned architect-builder Alexander White to construct this mill in Madison. Designed as J. Schofield and Son Woolen Mill, the building featured 75 east-west-facing windows to maximize natural light—an essential design choice before the invention of the gas mantle in 1844, which brought the first effective artificial lighting. The windows are characterized by segmental arches and decorative Italianate window caps.
Before settling in Madison, Joseph Schofield operated weaving mills in Rising Sun, Vevay, and Indianapolis. Born in Yorkshire, England in 1817, he emigrated to America in 1842 with his wife, Caroline. He remained actively involved in the daily operations of the mill until his death at age 69 in 1886.
Under the leadership of Joseph’s son, John T. Schofield, and others the woolen mill continued operations until 1927. According to the Madison City Directory of 1887, Schofield’s Mill produced “cassimeres, jeans, flannels, blankets, stockings, and yarns.”
Following a brief period under Fordyce Textiles, the building was acquired in 1937 by Meyer & Sons, a clothing manufacturer. Meyer & Sons operated here for 60 years, closing in 1997. At its peak, the factory employed 110 workers and once produced 150,000 pairs of overalls in a single year for J.C. Penney.
After its closure, the building stood vacant for years, sparking various redevelopment dreams—including proposals for a full-service medical clinic and a veterinary practice. Most recently, Righteous Beer Brewing Company has announced plans to occupy the space, envisioning it as a lively gathering place for revelers, event-goers, families, and friends.
Before settling in Madison, Joseph Schofield operated weaving mills in Rising Sun, Vevay, and Indianapolis. Born in Yorkshire, England in 1817, he emigrated to America in 1842 with his wife, Caroline. He remained actively involved in the daily operations of the mill until his death at age 69 in 1886.
Under the leadership of Joseph’s son, John T. Schofield, and others the woolen mill continued operations until 1927. According to the Madison City Directory of 1887, Schofield’s Mill produced “cassimeres, jeans, flannels, blankets, stockings, and yarns.”
Following a brief period under Fordyce Textiles, the building was acquired in 1937 by Meyer & Sons, a clothing manufacturer. Meyer & Sons operated here for 60 years, closing in 1997. At its peak, the factory employed 110 workers and once produced 150,000 pairs of overalls in a single year for J.C. Penney.
After its closure, the building stood vacant for years, sparking various redevelopment dreams—including proposals for a full-service medical clinic and a veterinary practice. Most recently, Righteous Beer Brewing Company has announced plans to occupy the space, envisioning it as a lively gathering place for revelers, event-goers, families, and friends.
10. First Street Saloon (313 E 1st Street)
Built in 1900, this two-story warehouse features 6-over-6 pane windows with decorative segmental arches. In the 1940s and 1950s, it housed Inverness Furniture Manufacturing, best known for its hand-carved Jeffrey Mirrors—many of which still grace Madison homes today.
The building then sat vacant from 1972 to 1988 before briefly becoming part of Meyer’s and Son clothing manufacturer from 1992 to 1995, in conjunction with their larger neighboring facility. Between 1996 and 1998, it served as the Early American Trades Museum, operated by local metal artisan Patrick Cunningham with volunteer George Terlinden.
After another vacancy from 1999 to 2003, the property was considered part of Dr. Hubbard’s proposed clinic expansion. By 2006, it had become home to Web Updates by Design.
For the past 14 years, the site has been occupied by the 1st Street Saloon, a favorite gathering place in downtown Madison. Nestled in the heart of the historic district, the saloon offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere—where locals and visitors alike can relax, connect, and make lasting memories in a setting rich with history.
The building then sat vacant from 1972 to 1988 before briefly becoming part of Meyer’s and Son clothing manufacturer from 1992 to 1995, in conjunction with their larger neighboring facility. Between 1996 and 1998, it served as the Early American Trades Museum, operated by local metal artisan Patrick Cunningham with volunteer George Terlinden.
After another vacancy from 1999 to 2003, the property was considered part of Dr. Hubbard’s proposed clinic expansion. By 2006, it had become home to Web Updates by Design.
For the past 14 years, the site has been occupied by the 1st Street Saloon, a favorite gathering place in downtown Madison. Nestled in the heart of the historic district, the saloon offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere—where locals and visitors alike can relax, connect, and make lasting memories in a setting rich with history.
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