by KIEL, Wisc. — C.J. Meiselwitz Furniture is closing its doors forever after more than a century as a pillar of the community in business and service. The fourth-generation owners have announced their retirement at the conclusion of the store’s total liquidation.
Brothers Michael and William Curry Jr. have chosen leading furniture promotional sales specialists Planned Furniture Promotions to handle the going-out-of-business event.
“C.J. Meiselwitz Furniture represents the very best of what family-owned retail has meant to its community for generations,” said Tom Liddell, senior vice president of PFP. “It’s a privilege to be entrusted with this final chapter, and our focus is on honoring that legacy by conducting the closing sale with care and professionalism.”
Founded in 1898 by Carl J. Meiselwitz, C.J. Meiselwitz Furniture has been a defining presence in downtown Kiel for 127 years, operating continuously at the corner of Fourth and Fremont Streets since the day it opened. The business was originally established as a combined furniture and undertaking operation. In 1922, C.J.’s son, Henry, joined him in the business, and the family eventually chose to separate the furniture store and funeral home in 1958. At that time, C.J.’s grandson, William Carl Curry Sr., took over the furniture business, serving as third-generation owner and president until his retirement.
For the past 50 years, two of William’s sons, Michael and William Jr., have continued their great-grandfather’s legacy, remaining committed to offering quality furniture, treating customers like neighbors and contributing meaningfully to the life of their community. As the Curry brothers now prepare for retirement, they have made the difficult decision to close the store.
Throughout its history, C.J. Meiselwitz Furniture played an active and generous role in sustaining Kiel’s cultural and community life. The store supported local music through contributions to the Kiel Municipal Band and helped bring residents together by serving as a host venue for frequent downtown gatherings. The Meiselwitz name appeared on local sports league rosters and jerseys for decades, reflecting the family’s commitment to recreational programs and youth activities in the area. From arts and entertainment to local athletics and civic events, C.J. Meiselwitz Furniture functioned as far more than a retail business — it was a dependable community partner whose presence shaped the rhythm of Kiel life for generations.
