For over 31 years, our ice cream shop has been a beloved part of the community, serving handcrafted ice cream, classic desserts, and cherished memories. Thanks to the loyalty and support of generations of customers, we’ve had the privilege of being a destination for sweet traditions and special moments. Your trust has made our shop a local favorite, and we’re excited to continue serving smiles and scoops for years to come.
Located in the heart of Taylors Falls, Minnesota, Schoony’s Malt Shop has been a cherished destination for lovers of classic malts and sodas since its founding in 1994 by Captain James Schoonmaker, (Jim). Blending a deep appreciation for history with a passion for timeless treats, Schoony’s has become an enduring symbol of charm and nostalgia. Inspired by the golden age of soda bars and lunch counters, Schoony’s Malt Shop honors iconic establishments like F.W. Woolworth’s in St. Paul, a cornerstone of mid-20th-century dining culture. Walking through the doors, visitors are transported to a bygone era filled with the sights, sounds, and flavors of simpler times.
Step into the past at our restaurant and experience the charm of our historic 1939 Liquid Carbonic soda fountain. Originally part of the Anderson Store (later known as the General Store) in Balsam Lake, Wisconsin, this iconic artifact was once operated by Jim and Marvin (Barney) Anderson, becoming a staple of the local malt shop legacy. While the soda fountain is no longer in use, it now serves as a decorative centerpiece, offering guests a nostalgic glimpse into a bygone era. It stands as a tribute to the timeless tradition of American soda fountains, adding character and history to our restaurant’s unique ambiance.
Long before the current building stood, a charming two-story wooden structure occupied this very site. According to the 1885 Sanborn Fire map of Taylors Falls, sourced from the Library of Congress, the building served dual purposes. The main section operated as a bustling drugstore, while the north wing housed a dedicated doctor’s office, making it a hub of health and wellness for the community.
By 1892, the building had undergone a transformation. The north side transitioned into an insurance office, offering residents a sense of security, while the larger south side welcomed a cigar shop, adding a touch of luxury and relaxation to the space. Though records are scarce, these changes reflect the evolution of local needs and businesses at the time.
As the turn of the century approached, the southern section of the building found its way back to its roots, once again operating as a drugstore. However, this was its final chapter before the devastating fire of 1902. The blaze ravaged much of southern Taylors Falls, erasing landmarks like Hans Thoen’s Mercantile and paving the way for a new era. Today, this area is part of Minnesota’s scenic Interstate State Park.
By 1904, a new chapter had begun. Rising from the ashes of the fire, Hans Thoen rebuilt his Mercantile on this site, incorporating part of the original foundation. This new brick structure featured the timeless elegance of a Victorian tin ceiling—a design element that continues to captivate visitors to this day. This map marks the first documented appearance of the building we now cherish.
A beacon of progress, the Hans Thoen building made history as the first structure in Taylors Falls to be equipped with electric lights in 1906. Captured in a 1907 photograph, the early electrical wiring is visible, offering a glimpse into the technological advancements that illuminated the space. The building remains a proud symbol of innovation and resilience in the community.
Taken in the mid-1920s, this interior image provides a glimpse of the building when it was home to the Hoglund Store. Following the Hans Thoen Mercantile, the Hoglund Store carried on its predecessor’s legacy, offering a similar variety of merchandise to meet the needs of the local community.
This photo from the 1934 Memorial Day parade offers a rare look at our building’s original facade before it underwent major renovations in the 1970s. The remodel introduced significant changes, such as a wooden awning, bay windows, and the removal of the recessed entrance, which once lent the building a distinct architectural character.
Photo by Robert E. Conway
In February 2002, a devastating fire broke out in the Livery Mall building. While the blaze completely destroyed the structure, the quick response of the Taylors Falls Fire Department saved our building from the same fate. Today, the site where the Livery Mall once stood has been repurposed as our deck, providing a welcoming outdoor space with a view steeped in history.
