Reviving History Through Art

McCOOK, Neb. – The Station Taphouse and Eatery is more than just a restaurant; it represents a deep connection to the local community and its historical significance. Recently revitalized by Jesse Pierson and his fiancée, McKenzie Schmitz, this establishment—previously known as The Loop Brewing Company—has undergone considerable renovations that honor its rich past while embracing future culinary possibilities. At the core of this transformation is a stunning new mural that pays tribute to the building’s storied history. Brett Schmitz, McKenzie’s father, has been instrumental in the revitalization effort. He funded the project with the intention of overseeing its development. A musician with a passion for local history, Brett helped shape the visual identity of the eatery and invited local artist Angie Raynes to lead the mural's design.

Raynes, who operates Artabyss Design Studio—a motorcycle art business—enthusiastically took on the challenge. “This is the largest project I’ve ever worked on,” she explained. Her creative vision led to the creation of a textured mural featuring a train, reflecting the area’s historical narrative.

With a strong interest in local history, Schmitz shared stories about the building’s origins as an ice house before it transitioned into a produce company. "This old building has a fascinating history," he remarked, highlighting how the decor, including the mural, embodies that story.

In addition to the mural, upcoming renovations at The Station include plans for a replica of the Pioneer Zephyr to enhance the patio this summer, offering guests a unique seating area that deepens the historical ambiance.

The Station Taphouse and Eatery stands as a captivating blend of history, community, and artistic expression. With the striking new mural serving as its centerpiece, the eatery invites visitors to explore the tales of the past while enjoying quality food and drink in a welcoming environment.

On social media, Raynes shared her progress, stating, “For the past three months, I’ve had the opportunity and privilege to help design and remodel The Station restaurant here in McCook. The owners have been incredibly supportive, allowing me to experiment with various artistic concepts. Over the last month, I’ve focused on creating a three-dimensional drywall mural.”

The mural was constructed using pink insulation filament along with solid materials, meticulously painted to create a consistent lighting effect across all shadows. It features a homage to the Ice House, incorporating historic elements like the CBQ logo, train tracks, and an overhang that reflects the building’s past.

Overall, the mural seamlessly blends history with modern aesthetics, crafting a unique and engaging space for patrons to enjoy. The Station Taphouse and Eatery is not merely a dining destination; it is a place where history, community, and artistry come together, inviting guests to uncover stories of the past while savoring excellent food and drinks in a warm and inviting atmosphere.