Scotty Dog's Pub: A Historic Gem in De Pere, Wisconsin

The Historic Transformation of a De Pere Landmark

Apr. 12, 2026 at 12:13pm

A brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen print of a single, iconic pub object such as a beer glass or neon sign, repeated in a tight grid pattern, conceptually representing the historic pub's modern pop art aesthetic.The vibrant weekend celebration of Scotty Dog's Pub's historic transformation will bring fun, local flavor, and creative energy to the heart of De Pere, Wisconsin.De Pere Today

The story of a local pub's journey to becoming a historic landmark is a fascinating one, and it's right in the heart of De Pere, Wisconsin. Scotty Dog's Pub, a hidden gem with a rich past, was originally constructed as the State Bank of De Pere in 1877 and underwent a significant architectural transformation in 1904, embracing the Beaux-Arts style. During the pub's renovation, a delightful surprise awaited beneath the surface - the discovery of original tiles, hidden under laminate flooring, is a historian's dream. The building's history as a bank is equally captivating, standing as a pillar of financial stability during the turbulent 1930s and continuing its operations well into the 1980s.

Why it matters

The listing of this pub on the State Register of Historic Places is more than just a recognition; it's a celebration of De Pere's commitment to preserving its heritage. It shows that the city values its history and understands the importance of maintaining historical accuracy. This is a win not only for the pub owners but also for the entire community, as it ensures that a piece of their past remains intact for future generations.

The details

The building, originally constructed as the State Bank of De Pere in 1877, underwent a significant makeover in 1904, embracing the Beaux-Arts style. This architectural transformation, led by a Green Bay architect, added a touch of grandeur with its rusticated stone, majestic arch, and elegant columns. During the pub's renovation, a delightful surprise awaited beneath the surface - the discovery of original tiles, hidden under laminate flooring, is a historian's dream. The building's history as a bank is equally captivating, standing as a pillar of financial stability during the turbulent 1930s and continuing its operations well into the 1980s.

  • The building was originally constructed as the State Bank of De Pere in 1877.
  • The building underwent a significant architectural transformation in 1904, embracing the Beaux-Arts style.
  • The pub's renovation uncovered the discovery of original tiles, hidden under laminate flooring.

The players

Scotty Dog's Pub

A local pub in De Pere, Wisconsin that is housed in a historic building originally constructed as the State Bank of De Pere in 1877.

Gretchen Trowbridge

The co-owner of Scotty Dog's Pub who shares enthusiasm for preserving historical accuracy and has incorporated the building's past into its present.

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What they’re saying

“It's a subtle nod to the past, creating an ambiance that's both inviting and educational.”

— Gretchen Trowbridge, Co-owner of Scotty Dog's Pub

The takeaway

Scotty Dog's Pub is not just a watering hole; it's a living museum, a place where history and modern life coexist. Its journey from a bank to a beloved local pub is a testament to the power of preservation and the enduring appeal of historical landmarks. This transformation is a reminder that sometimes, the most intriguing stories are hidden within the familiar walls of our communities.