My husband, Steve, stopped at Fischerville Coffee House every weekday morning and savored his brew while driving back roads through sleepy old neighborhoods following the Mississippi River into downtown St. Paul. Our college age daughters had frequented the old fashioned shop with friends and family, and were disappointed to hear that , because the building was being sold, Fischerville was closing and Christmas break would be the last time they could visit their favorite destination for coffee, smoothies and especially the breakfast panini’s.
Nostalgia runs deep in Fischerville. The building dates back to the 1920’s when it was the center of commerce and social life in a slower time than can be imagined today. While only six miles from the hustle and bustle of downtown St. Paul, the store originally sat on a 300 acre farm in a drowsy rural community. Established by Frank Fischer, the farm with its store became known as the unincorporated town of Fischerville. He even put up his own town sign and was recognized by some map makers. Acreage was sold off for development and eventually in the 1940’s Fischerville was just five acres with three residents—all in the Fischer family. Frank ran the general store, gas station, was the self-appointed mayor, full council and Chief of the surrounding Mendota Township Volunteer Fire Department. Most importantly, because of Frank Fischer, his general store was where people came together.
Eventually the general store gave way to such things as light industrial use for many years until Kathy Doyle opened her coffee house in 2006 keeping the exposed 1920’s joists, wide planked wood floors and brick exterior. She achieved her mission of providing excellent food and beverages and created a friendly gathering place “with an old town/neighborhood feel.”
On the morning of December 31st, while the coffee house was doing an especially brisk last day of business, Steve and Alana stopped in to order coffee, a smoothie and two Panini’s. Steve said, “Make that four,” and turning to our daughter he said,” We’ll get one for Mom.” Behind the counter, Annette responded, “Oh! You just bought our very last Panini!”
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©2011, Jana B. Patrick
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