Red Bud in Randolph County, Illinois — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
1855 Building
Photographed by Thomas Smith, October 19, 2026
1. 1885 Building Marker
Richmond Durfee and Samuel Crozier originally constructed the building as a general merchandise store. The north end of the building served as residential living quarters, blending business and home under one roof a common practice in early American towns.
Through the years. "1855" has housed a variety of businesses that reflect the changing needs and character of the Red Bud community. Among its earliest tenants were L. Marx & Co. and P. A. Fox & Son. By 1875. Sophia Boekhoff's General Merchandise Store occupied the space, serving local families with everyday necessities.
In 1919, the building was home to George Ratz's store. followed by Wilbert Dehne's Clover Farm Grocery from 1946 to 1953. The Ben Franklin Five & Dime Store, operated by Lee Robert, brought value shopping to Red Bud residents from
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In 2014, the historic building took on a new life as Kaskaskia Brewing Co.. owned by Derek and Jared Kueker. An office in the rear was also used by Richard Breslin, CPA, maintaining the building's longstanding tradition of mixed commercial use.
The latest chapter began in 2017 with the opening of Burnt End Bourbon, Brew, and BBQ, a restaurant established by Terry and Donna Reinhardt that continues to welcome patrons today.
Above the bustling businesses, the upper floors serve as residential apartments - two on the second floor and a third added to the third story. With a total renovation completed, the building now stands beautifully restored, preserving its historic charm while embracing modern functionality.
Today, 1855" is owned by Alan and Karla Mueth, who have ensured that this remarkable building remains a centerpiece of Red Bud's heritage and community.
Erected 2026.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Industry & Commerce. A significant historical year for this entry is 1855.
Location. 38° 12.709′ N, 89° 59.634′ W.
Photographed by Thomas Smith, October 19, 2026
2. 1885 Building Marker
Regionally, this marker is in Southern Illinois — Little Egypt. It is also in the American Midwest, in the Corn Belt, and in the Great River Road Region. Globally, it is in North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once the Viceroyalty of New France, the territory of the Mississippian Culture, and the Northwest Territory.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Boekhoff Building (a few steps from this marker); Brumleve Building (within shouting distance of this marker); 1860 Building & 112 East Market (within shouting distance of this marker); Ziebold Building (within shouting distance of this marker); 1860 Building (within shouting distance of this marker); a different marker also named Ziebold Building (within shouting distance of this marker); Cowell Building (within shouting distance of this marker); a different marker also named Ziebold Building (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Red Bud.
Credits. This page was last revised on October 31, 2026. It was originally submitted on October 20, 2026, by Thomas Smith of Waterloo, Ill. This page has been viewed 12 times since then. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on October 20, 2026, by Thomas Smith of Waterloo, Ill. • Andrew Ruppenstein was the editor who published this page.
