1886 – 1911: The building we now know as Jerry’s was built and was being used as a Bowling Alley and Saloon (owned by the Wenzel family).

1911: Jerry’s was purchased by Gus Wesenberg (nickname “Jerry”), a local Oshkosh-ian who was best friends with Charlie Rahr (owner of Rahr’s Brewery) just down the road from Jerry’s. Charlie gave Gus the push to get started and Jerry’s Tavern was officially born!

1913: Legendary Jerry’s Colts team was formed. Back then, the Colts played semi-pro baseball where they passed the hat for players after the game, and they drew as many as 2,000 fans for their games throughout the state.

1920-1933: Prohibition struck the country and Jerry’s had to adapt. During this team Jerry’s operated as an “ice cream parlor” with the occasional illegal beverage on the side.

1941: Marty’s first year with Jerry’s at 18 years old where he worked alongside his dad, Jerry. Jerry’s became one of the popular pubs that supported our US military as WWII was happening. To this day, Jerry’s continues to support our troops through fundraisers and donations.

1961: The Otter Street Fishing Club founders came to Marty to ask to use the bar as their official headquarters. Jerry’s continues to be the home of the Otter Street Fishing Club today.

1970: After Gus passed in 1970, his grandson Steve Wesenberg stepped into the business as an owner and bartender. Steve is responsible for some of the delicious food you enjoy at Jerry’s. His legacy lives on through his legendary smoked beef jerky, a secret family recipe he created and passed down to Julie Nikolaus to carry on the tradition to this day.

1988: While still serving our country as an CTO3 in US Navy, Scotty also spent part of his time alongside his Uncle Steve and Grandpa Marty when joined Jerry’s as an owner and bartender.

2001: A longtime friend of Scotty and the Wesenberg family, Mike “Kopie” Koplitz became an owner of Jerry’s where he continues to co-own the tavern to this day. Scotty and Kopie went to school together, and have been friends since 1983.

2011: After nearly 40 years of ownership and service at Jerry’s, Steve Wesenberg retired from the bar business in 2009. Steve passed away on October 22, 2011.

2016: After nearly 75 years of ownership, Marty officially started enjoying his retirement. Marty often joked with Scotty saying “Scotty, your 25 years bartending is like a nap for me!” Marty passed away in 2018, but continues to guide this bar through his traditions.

2023: Jerry’s continues to be an Oshkosh staple, and is a 5X “Best Neighborhood Bar” Winner, year over year. We proudly serve this community, and support local organizations and appreciate your continued patronage.