Operating until 1994, the history of the Schuette Brothers Store, owned by the Schuette family for nearly 150 years at the corner of Eight and Jay Streets in Manitowoc tells a story that mirrors our County’s growth, values and challenges. Founded by German immigrant, John Schuette in 1849, the store passed from one generation to the next evolving along with our community.

A letter, written and addressed to the Manitowoc City Council on  March 11, 1888, states the following: “…I hereby tender this $1,000 dollars to the City of Manitowoc for the benefit of the poor in the following condition:

1.      That the Board of Poor Commissioners or their successors shall be the trustees of said fund to be known as the “Christmas Fund”.

2.      That they shall loan such amount on first lien security.

3.      That the income of said fund shall be expended and distributed by them in presents of any kind or nature each Christmas among the city poor; or if found more preferable the selection and distribution of presents may be left to any aid society…”

The man who signed this letter was John Schuette.