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| Engler’s Block will soon be the home to the Branson Auto Museum and Olyvia’s |
When one thinks of Branson Shows, what normally comes to mind is one of the many music, variety or other shows that Branson, Missouri is famous for. Yet for years, a lot of those interested in watching craftsmen and artisans perform their craft went to a “show” that wasn’t found in a theatre at all, but in a building, called “Engler Block,” where craftsmen and artisans put on a special “show” as they practiced their crafts and art.
That unique “show” will be ending as of Feb. 1. Bill Skains, Engler Block’s manager said, “As of that date, ‘The Engler Block’ will cease operation as a venue for craftsmen and artisans to demonstrate and sell their crafts and arts.” He stated, as of that date, the majority of the space in the building will be leased by the “Branson Auto Museum” and the restaurant space will become “Olyvia’s Restaurant.”
Skains, who was contacted at his home during an ice storm the evening of Jan. 26, did not have the specifics of the contracts immediately available, but said the leases, for two separate entities, have been signed through Harris Leasing Co, the family owned company owning the building, and will become effective Feb.1.
Skains stated that both the museum and restaurant are shooting for a March 1 opening date. He said that the interim time between Feb. 1 and March 1 will be spent obtaining the necessary city approvals and making appropriate physical and signage changes to the building reflecting its new usage.
Skains expressed his understanding that the Branson Auto Museum would be a unique type of paid attraction. People would pay to go through the museum to see the vintage cars, but if they saw a car they wanted to buy they would be able to pursue its purchase. He also suggested that the museum would accept cars on a consignment basis to display and sell.
He described Olyvia’s as a restaurant featuring American style food. Skains indicated the possibility that there will be live blues and jazz entertainment on Saturday nights.
Reflecting on the Harris family’s extended involvement with “The Engler Block” and its craft and artesian heritage, Skains said it was one of the first “year rounder” business attractions in Branson and one of the early proponents of “Hot Winter Fun.” At times it was the home to more than 30 different business and practicing craftsmen and artisans such as glass blowers, artists, and wood carvers who practiced and displayed their skills to the guests as they browsed, learned, and shopped.
Skains expressed mixed emotions about the changes taking place saying that the current economic situation, combined with the way retail and craft malls have evolved in Branson in recent years, made the transition necessary. He went on to say he is excited about the new opportunities for the Engler Block property presented by its new tenants.
