The Guide’s Inn in Boulder Junction, Wisconsin, boasts a rich and colorful history, transforming from its clandestine beginnings during the Prohibition era to a cherished culinary and historical landmark in the Northwoods. Originally a humble “blind pig,” an illegal tavern serving lumberjacks, this property has evolved alongside Boulder Junction itself, mirroring the town’s shift from a rugged logging community to a premier tourist destination renowned for fishing and hunting.
By 1930, as the lumber industry waned, Boulder Junction began to attract visitors eager to experience the region’s abundant natural resources. In 1936, The Guide’s Inn officially opened its doors as a bar, quickly establishing itself as a classic Northwoods destination for the next 35 years. During this golden age, the inn became a central hub where tourists and their hunting and fishing guides would gather, forging bonds and celebrating their outdoor adventures in the welcoming taverns and restaurants of Boulder Junction. This era cemented the inn’s identity, linking it inextricably to the guiding traditions of the region.
The property experienced a period of transition starting in 1971, with numerous owners attempting to revitalize it, even briefly renaming it “The Junction.” However, recognizing the deep-rooted history and local significance, subsequent proprietors wisely chose to return to its original and evocative name: The Guide’s Inn. This decision resonated with locals and visitors alike, reaffirming its connection to the fishing and hunting guides who continued to frequent the historic tavern. The inn became a living museum, with patrons encouraged to contribute photographs, prints, taxidermy mounts, and artifacts, further enriching its unique atmosphere.
A pivotal chapter in The Guide’s Inn story began with Jimmy Dean Van Rossum. A Wisconsin native from the Fox Valley and a proud U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Jimmy Dean brought a unique blend of discipline, culinary artistry, and heartfelt hospitality to Boulder Junction. His training at the prestigious Culinary Institute of America honed his natural talents, setting the stage for his journey to the Northwoods where he aspired to run his own restaurant.
In 1984, Jimmy Dean realized his dream, taking the helm of The Guide’s Inn and embarking on what would become its longest and most celebrated tenure. Immediately, both residents and tourists recognized a distinct transformation. Jimmy Dean’s menu was not only different; it was expansive, adventurous, and brimming with robust entrees, quickly establishing the inn as a premier dining destination. The layout of The Guide’s Inn, featuring a spacious bar and restaurant area, proved ideal, offering both a lively cocktail scene and a welcoming dining room. However, the initial dining space, housed within a refurbished home, soon proved inadequate for the inn’s growing popularity. To accommodate the increasing demand, Jimmy Dean ingeniously doubled the dining area with the addition of “The Guide’s Room,” seamlessly connecting it with the original dining space and enhancing the overall dining experience.
Jimmy Dean’s personal touch was a hallmark of The Guide’s Inn experience. He was renowned for his engaging interactions with guests, generously sharing culinary insights and, remarkably, adapting his dishes based on customer feedback, always striving to perfect his offerings and exceed expectations. His commitment to the community extended beyond the restaurant walls. Jimmy Dean was a dedicated supporter of local fundraisers, frequently providing catering services to various groups and notably collaborating with the local elementary school to host veterans at Camp Manitowish, demonstrating his deep respect for service and community spirit.
Describing the complete ambiance of The Guide’s Inn under Jimmy Dean is a challenge best experienced firsthand. The YouTube video “Tribute to The Guide’s Inn, a Northwoods Treasure for 40 Years,” offers a visual journey into the inn’s unique atmosphere. Additional YouTube videos showcase Jimmy Dean’s culinary skills, featuring him preparing signature dishes like pan-fried walleye, providing a taste of the dining experience.
Northwoods guiding traditions remained at the heart of Van Rossum’s vision for The Guide’s Inn. The bar and dining areas evolved into a captivating museum, adorned with generations of donated artwork. This eclectic collection included prints, paintings, stained glass, decorative plates, taxidermy, and more, all reflecting themes of hunting, fishing, the Northwoods wilderness, and culinary celebrations. These artistic contributions, often gifts from grateful patrons and employees, served as tokens of appreciation and further enriched the inn’s unique character.
Framed photographs complemented the artwork, creating a visual tapestry of the inn’s history. Historic images of guides, their clients, and impressive fish catches covered the walls, telling silent stories of Northwoods adventures. A special tribute was dedicated to Porter Dean, the legendary barefoot guide, with a notable concentration of artwork and photographs commemorating his legacy. Jimmy Dean’s own passions for hunting and his beloved hunting dogs were also celebrated in a dedicated corner of the original dining room. Furthermore, photographs and newspaper clippings documented Van Rossum’s culinary achievements and his unwavering support for veterans, creating a multifaceted portrait of the inn and its proprietor.
Taxidermy mounts, a nod to the guiding traditions that inspired the inn’s name, were prominently displayed throughout the building. A diverse array of fish species, particularly musky, walleye, bass, perch, crappie, and bluegill, were showcased in the barroom and entryway, captivating guests as they moved from the bar to the dining area, reinforcing the inn’s deep connection to the angling heritage of Boulder Junction.
Sadly, Jimmy Dean Van Rossum passed away on January 11, 2022. His son, Jessie, and the dedicated staff of The Guide’s Inn continued to uphold the high standards of the barroom and restaurant until February 29, 2024, ensuring that Jimmy Dean’s legacy of culinary excellence and Northwoods hospitality endured. The Guide’s Inn remains a testament to the history of Boulder Junction and the enduring appeal of a true Northwoods experience.
