Blacksmith Dedicates Nearly 800 Hours to Grand Theater’s Wrought Iron Railings
A third-generation blacksmith from Junction City, Boleslaw Kochanowski, has dedicated nearly 800 hours to crafting wrought iron railings for the Grand Theater's entrance. The custom railings, designed in the style of the theater's original construction from the late 1920s, are…
Wausau Rhinelander, WI, October 1, 2026 —
Boleslaw Kochanowski, a third-generation blacksmith based in Junction City, has completed an extensive project involving the creation of custom wrought iron railings for the Grand Theater’s entrance. This detailed work required nearly 800 hours of dedicated craftsmanship from Kochanowski.
The newly crafted railings are designed to complement the historic architecture of the Grand Theater. Their style is intended to emulate the original construction period of the theater, which dates back to the late 1920s. This focus on historical accuracy aims to ensure the railings serve as a cohesive and authentic addition to the building’s facade.
This initiative is part of the preparations for the Grand Theater’s upcoming reopening, scheduled for November. The custom railings are expected to be a permanent feature, enhancing the entrance area and reflecting the venue’s historical significance. The project highlights a commitment to preserving or restoring elements that align with the theater’s original era.
The process involved significant time and skill, characteristic of traditional blacksmithing techniques necessary for custom metalwork of this nature. The contractor’s name for the overall theater renovation was not provided.
Story summarized from the original created by Adam Mueller on www.wsaw.com, see more information here.
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