The story of The Guide’s Inn, a celebrated establishment in Boulder Junction, Wisconsin, is deeply intertwined with the region’s rich history. Its origins trace back to the Prohibition era, starting as a clandestine “blind pig” – an illegal tavern – and a hidden storage spot for lumberjack whiskey. As the roaring twenties faded and the 1930s dawned, Boulder Junction transitioned from a bustling lumber town to a haven for fishing and hunting enthusiasts. It was in this era of change, in 1936, that The Guide’s Inn officially emerged as a bar, quickly becoming a cherished destination for locals and tourists alike for the next 35 years. During this time, a unique camaraderie developed between tourists and their hunting and fishing guides, often leading to post-adventure celebrations in the town’s various taverns and restaurants, with The Guide’s Inn at the heart of many of these gatherings.
From 1971 onwards, The Guide’s Inn faced a period of change and uncertainty. Multiple owners took the helm, some even renaming it “The Junction,” in an attempt to redefine its identity. However, recognizing the deep-rooted history and appeal of the original name, later proprietors wisely chose to honor its heritage, reverting back to The Guide’s Inn. This return to its roots resonated with the community and visitors, reinforcing its status as a historic tavern. Fishing and hunting guides, along with their clients, continued to frequent the inn, drawn by its nostalgic charm and the growing collection of donated pictures, prints, taxidermy mounts, and local artifacts that adorned its walls, adding to its unique character.
A significant chapter in The Guide’s Inn story began with Jimmy Dean Van Rossum. Hailing from Wisconsin’s Fox Valley, Jimmy Dean’s early life took him into the United States Marines. Following his military service, he pursued his passion for culinary arts at the prestigious Culinary Institute of America, where he discovered and honed his talents. After gaining experience in several restaurants, Jimmy Dean was drawn to the Northwoods of Wisconsin, eager to establish his own culinary venture.
1984 marked the beginning of Jimmy Dean’s era at The Guide’s Inn, a period that would become its longest and arguably most impactful. Immediately, both residents and tourists noticed a distinct shift in the inn’s offerings. Jimmy Dean introduced a new menu, celebrated for its generous portions and diverse entrees, moving beyond typical bar fare. The layout of The Guide’s Inn, featuring a spacious bar and restaurant area, proved ideal, allowing for both a lively cocktail atmosphere and a comfortable dining setting, although the initial dining space was somewhat limited. Originally a remodeled house, the inn needed expansion to match its growing popularity as a culinary destination. Recognizing this, Jimmy Dean undertook a significant expansion, nearly doubling the dining area with the addition of the Guide’s Room, seamlessly connected to the original dining space.
Jimmy Dean’s personal touch was a hallmark of The Guide’s Inn experience. He was renowned for his engaging interactions with guests, often sharing culinary insights and, remarkably, adapting his dishes based on customer feedback. This commitment to customer satisfaction and community extended beyond the inn’s walls. Jimmy Dean was a strong supporter of local fundraising initiatives, providing catering services for community groups and partnering with the local elementary school to host veterans at Camp Manitowish, demonstrating his deep community involvement.
Describing the unique ambiance and experience of The Guide’s Inn under Jimmy Dean is challenging to capture in words alone. For a vivid portrayal, the YouTube tribute “Tribute to The Guide’s Inn, a Northwoods Treasure for 40 Years” offers an immersive glimpse. Furthermore, additional YouTube videos showcase Jimmy Dean’s culinary skills in action, preparing signature dishes like pan-fried walleye, providing a taste of the inn’s celebrated cuisine.
The guiding traditions of the Northwoods remained a central theme at Jimmy Dean’s Guide’s Inn. Over the years, patrons and employees contributed to a growing collection of art, transforming the bar and dining areas into a captivating, museum-like space. This eclectic collection featured a wide range of mediums, including prints, paintings, stained glass, decorative plates, and taxidermy, all unified by themes reflecting hunting, fishing, Northwoods wilderness, and culinary celebrations. Many of these pieces were heartfelt gifts from loyal customers and staff, expressing gratitude for their experiences at The Guide’s Inn.
Complementing the diverse art collection were framed photographs, further enriching the inn’s visual narrative. Historic images of guides, their clients, and impressive fish catches covered the walls, creating a visual timeline of the region’s guiding heritage. A special section was dedicated to artwork and photographs commemorating Porter Dean, the legendary barefoot guide. Jimmy Dean’s passion for hunting and his hunting dogs was also highlighted in a dedicated corner of the original dining room. Adding to the personal touches, photographs and articles showcased Van Rossum’s culinary achievements and his commitment to veterans, further weaving his personal story into the fabric of The Guide’s Inn.
Taxidermy mounts were prominently displayed throughout The Guide’s Inn, serving as a constant reminder of the guiding traditions that inspired its name. The barroom and entryway particularly featured a diverse array of fish species, offering a visual spectacle for guests en route to the dining area, with panoramic views of musky, walleye, bass, perch, crappie, and bluegill.
Sadly, the era of Jimmy Dean Van Rossum concluded with his passing on January 11, 2022. His legacy, however, continued as his son Jessie and The Guide’s Inn staff maintained the high standards of the barroom and restaurant until its closure on February 29, 2024. While The Guide’s Inn may have closed its doors, its history as a Boulder Junction landmark, deeply connected to guiding traditions and Jimmy Dean Van Rossum’s culinary vision, remains a significant part of the Northwoods narrative.
