What's that big Metal Thing?

What’s the Big Metal Thing on the front porch?

The "big metal thing"

If you've ever wandered around Rosko’s Brew House and found yourself wondering, “What’s the big metal thing?”, you’re not alone. On the corner of our porch, standing like some kind of relic from another era, is the base to an old, belt-driven saw. It’s massive, industrial, and kind of intimidating. But it’s also a piece of history, and it tells a story that’s deeply rooted in the spirit of Rosko’s.

When we purchased the property in 2018, we inherited more than just a run down house at the corner of Sixth and Pine Streets. We inherited its charm and its history, including a garage/stable that once served as a previous owner’s woodshop. It was old, kind of creepy, but undeniably cool. Inside was a nearly 100-year-old piece of equipment that looked like it hadn’t been touched in decades. That’s the “big metal thing,” a saw that likely powered many a woodworking project back in its prime.

Manufacturer plaque on the front

Unfortunately, the garage had to go. Between city regulations, our plans to make the property more open and accessible, and the general state of disrepair, it was one of those hard renovation decisions. In fact, if you ask Adam, it’s one of his few regrets; letting go of that old structure that held so much character and memory.

But we didn’t let go of all of it.

The stable at 601 Pine St, prior to demolition

There was a moment when the local historic society even showed interest in the saw, but we decided to keep what we could and honor it in our own way. That’s why the saw remains. It’s not just a curiosity; it’s a tribute to the people who came before us, to the hands that built and shaped this property long before we arrived.

The saw fully assembled

When Rosko’s Brew House opened its doors in August of 2022, it was the culmination of over four years of restoration and renovation. The house itself dates back to 1870, originally built by William Fink atop a hand-laid stone culvert straddling Grafius Run, a feature that still exists and can be explored today. Throughout the process, we worked hard to maintain the building’s historic soul. We were able to preserve and repurpose much of the original wood, windows, and trim.

And then there's the saw, a tangible, unpolished reminder of where we came from and who came before us.

So next time you visit, take a moment to check out the “big metal thing.” It’s more than just an antique; it’s a silent witness to the long history of this place, and part of what makes Rosko’s more than just a brewery. It’s a home, a story, and a legacy.

601 Pine St, prior to full scale renovation and new paint scheme