St. Nicholas Brewing Company formed

The development group of the St. Nicholas Brewing Company has formed the operating company for the micro-brewery to be located in the former St. Nicholas Hotel on Oak Street in Du Quoin. President Theodore Wichmann announced that the group has begun the next phase of development of the property. Wichmann, from Cobden, Illinois, is one of the original owners of Alto Vineyards and the previous owner of Owl Creek Vineyard in Cobden. In addition to Wichmann, board members are Karen Hand, winemaker at Blue Sky Vineyard; Gary Sullivan, who will supervise the final phase of construction and installation of brewery equipment; Du Quoin resident Patricia Gross and Abby Ancell. The group will open a restaurant on the premises at the time of the brewery opening.

The unique structure of the historic hotel has presented challenges for contractors involved in the renovation process. But the unique structure and the historical significance of the building will be of great interest to both residents of Du Quoin and visitors to the area. President Wichmann and the entire board believe that an innovative business housed in a beautiful, historic building will be an exciting addition to Du Quoin and the entire region.