Rosey's Dream

Several months ago, I, together with Cheryl Schwarzenbart, had the opportunity to interview Rosey Harden about his restaurant, Rosey's Dream, which was located on Main Street in Reedsburg.  Harden operated his diner from 1972-1985 as a minority in Reedsburg and had many stories to share about his experiences running the restaurant.  I think that his stories are a wonderful and unique part of Reedsburg history.  I have enjoyed sharing them, as well as hearing the stories of Reedsburg citizens who remember his restaurant.  I recently selected six clips from the interviews to share on YouTube.  I hope you enjoy them and learn something new!

I realize that addressing an issue such as race can be controversial and/or difficult, and I welcome and encourage your thoughtful comments below.













Special thanks to Rosey and Donna Harden, Cheryl Schwarzenbart, Donna Neuwirth, The Reedsburg Public Library, The Reedsburg Times Press (archives), Bill Schuette, Katie Godfrey and Katie Schofield for their help with this project.

Rosey's Dream diner is currently on being highlighted as part of an exhibit at the Woolen Mill Gallery in Reedsburg.  The Smithsonian Museum's "Key Ingredients: America by Food" exhibit "examines the wealth of history and culture that shapes our dining habits and taste preferences."