MADISON LAKE — The anchor that sat from the now-closed Anchor Bank in Mankato moved to a new home on Friday.
The Anchor Bar & Grill in Madison Lake relocated the 7,200 pound anchor from its current location to the restaurant’s property. Affordable Towing of Mankato picked it up and delivered the anchor to the bar’s front door.
Owner Allyson Storm purchased the Anchor Bar & Grill four years ago and said she has been curious about the anchor’s ownership for some time.
“The last couple of years we’ve seen it down there, and it’s sitting on Second Street. It’s just been sitting there,” she said. “It’s just going to be kind of a fun destination. People can come in and see this anchor.”
Anchor Bank operated on Second Street before becoming what is now Old National Bank in 2018. After research by a staff member of the bar, the current landowner agreed to let the restaurant acquire the anchor. It was placed next to the restaurant’s sign, creating a new focal point for the business.
Storm said she plans to use the anchor as an attraction, hoping it will draw more attention to their restaurant, which is located near a popular bike trail. The relocation comes as part of the restaurant’s ongoing efforts to create a unique destination for local patrons and cyclists passing by. She said the Anchor is a great opportunity to meet locals and build community.
“My favorite part is interacting with different people every day and then getting to know people personally,” Storm said. “You just kind of form this relationship with these people.”