October, 12, 2021 – Hartford, WI – A new Culver’s Restaurant will be built in Hartford, WI. The announcement is being made just a day and a month after a devastating fire leveled the building, 1570 E. Sumner Street.
It was August 17, 2021, when Jeff Liegel and his company, S & L Properties West Bend LLC, purchased the Culver’s in Hartford for $2.4 million.
On Sept. 11, 2021 an early morning fire raced through the building as seven local fire departments worked together to contain the blaze. In less than 10 days after the fire the CEO of Culver’s in Hartford Jeff Liegel said he would be rebuilding. “Sure, yes, absolutely,” said Liegel.
Today comes the announcement Liegel has a new location on Sumner Street under contract; the new site is not far from its old location.
“This new location will give us enough room for a double drive thru, increased dining room and parking,” said Liegel. “Our new location will be open in six to seven months.”
The new 1.7-acre parcel, 1285 E. Sumner Street, was sold July 1, 2021 for $950,000 to DMD Hartford, Appleton, Wisconsin. The property had been assessed at $1,196,600.
That location was formerly home to the Ponderosa Restaurant which closed June 20, 2021.
Liegel said he will lease or sell the former Culver’s property, 1570 E. Sumner Street, once clean up is complete.
According to Hartford Fire Chief Paul Stephans, “The cause of the Sept. 11 fire is under investigation by the Washington County, Wisconsin Sheriff’s Office Hartford Police Department and the Hartford Fire and Rescue Department.”
So so glad you’re staying in Hartford. Can’t wait until you reopen. Love those butter burgers and the custard. Scrumptious!!!
Great news, one of my favorite places which will be very close to my condo which is right behind the new Festival. Sorry for the loss of the original Culver’s but nice to know they will still be here.
Bigger and better, that seems like a win for the area.
We are so happy your rebuilding and staying in Hartford, we love you guys, one of the best Culver’s!!!! We are so sorry for your loss of your building!!!
So sorry about the accidental loss of your business just one short month after acquisition. How fortunate the old Ponderosa lot was available and the perfect size for a double drive-through. How perfect!