“Our goal is to keep it going for another 100 years,” Executive Director Jinx Brew said. “Not only is it important to restore the theater for its historic value, it has provided special memories for generations.”

The Friends of the Braumart are now one step closer to reaching that objective.

The non-profit has been working with Engberg Anderson Architects of Milwaukee to develop restoration plans for the 1925 theater.

About a year and a half ago, the group decided to apply for state and federal Historic Tax Credits to help obtain the needed funds. Several factors must be met in the application process, including keeping the physical integrity of the historic structure.

FOR ALMOST A century, the Braumart Theater at 106 E. B St. in Iron Mountain, has generated special memories in the region. The Friends of the Braumart are closer to moving forward with a major restoration project. (Terri Castelaz/Daily News photo)

To meet those requirements, changes would have to be made to the original architectural drawings for the renovation.

“There were several features within in those plans — removing walls, rooms, etc. — that wouldn’t be acceptable,” Brew said. “We are excited the changes are done and we can move forward.”

If approved, the historic tax credits would cut project expenses by at least 40% to 45%, according to Brew.

As a non-profit, the Friends of the Braumart will be able to offer those tax credits to any state taxpaying business or individual.

“It’s a big project, but with this it makes it a lot more doable — we have to go for it,” she said.

THE INTERIOR OF the Braumart Theater’s auditorium that was divided into two theaters in the early 1980s. (Terri Castelaz/Daily News photo)

The group has started to search for a consultant to assist with the process.

They are also seeking help from the community to gather more information about the Braumart from 1925 to 1935.

The architects have requested any historic photos that show more details, especially of the interior of the auditorium, for the final design.

They have already exhausted local sources such as the museum, library and local historian Bill Cummings.

The Friends were able to acquire several photographs of the exterior and the lobby; however, only one from inside the auditorium.

“It is also not the earliest — it was taken after a remodel,” Brew added.

Anything taken during this time — even showing the smallest features — may help them replicate the look from that time period. Anyone who has photographs can contact Brew at the Braumart at 906-239-9002.

The architects are working on design drawings and a digital 3-D model. When completed, those plans will be displayed on the Braumart’s website.

“This will allow the community to see what we are going to do,” she said.

Renovations will extend from the basement to the second floor, including a new stage house.

“The stage is going to be the biggest change,” said Brew, noting it will be three to three-and-a-half stories in height.

The new facility — upgraded to all the latest technology — would then allow the theater to attract larger productions and entertainment.

An added feature will be a reception room on the second floor that will accommodate about 150 people, as well as a catering support kitchen. The area will have movable walls to allow them to host several activities at the same time.

The Friends are currently raising funds to purchase a much-needed movie screen. This will later be moved upstairs to be used for business meetings, photo videos for wedding reception, birthday parties or even show movies.

Another important addition will be an elevator from the basement to the second level, Brew said.

Unfortunately, because of the new changes, the old ticket booth can’t be relocated back to the sidewalk. “It will now be in the center of the lobby — regardless, it’s going to be very cool,” Brew said. “We are pretty excited.”

With the final plans in order, Friends of the Braumart can begin getting estimates for the construction project.

With the Braumart celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2025, Friends of the Braumart hope to organize a major capital campaign at that time.

“We are also looking to apply for grants,” she said. “We have a lot on our plate right now, but it’s fun.”

The Friends are focused on their ultimate goal, which is the completion of the project.

“It probably won’t start for five to 10 years,” Brew said. “It will take some time, but the ball is rolling.”