The opening of M. Kellner and Sons General Store in 1869 is what truly put “Kellnersville” on the map.

Located in north central Manitowoc County, Kellnersville has a history filled with entrepreneurship, expansion, community building, and even some mystery. Michael Kellner is considered the village’s founder. Kellner and his family came to America from Bohemia in 1849. They first settled in Quebec, Canada before coming to Manitowoc County. The family initially worked as farmers but then opened a tannery. Kellner expanded his ventures, first opening a shingle mill and then later a gristmill in 1862.