Perched on the shores of Birch Lake is one of Harshaw’s most notable establishments. It’s been part of the community since 1922 and through the decades has proved to be a favorite spot not only for generations of tourists but locals as well. It was known for decades as Idlewild Resort but today is called Birch Lake Bar and Resort.

The original resort was constructed by Edward C. Young, a stonecutter from Wausau, who purchased 35 acres along the shores of Birch Lake in the early 1920s. The property was bisected by Hwy. 10, now known as Lakewood Road. His first project was to construct a lodge that included a small tavern and several sleeping rooms. With the shore of the lake only feet from the building and the highway running by the front door he knew the place would be popular and he was right.

Initially it was constructed of tamarack and spruce logs cut from the land. Mr. Young was an ambitious man and by 1924 he built two additional cottages, an icehouse, garage, poultry yard, garden and stock pens, including a small barn. Fresh food and cooling beverages were served in the lodge, even game when it was in season.

In the 1930s the building was enlarged, a massive fieldstone fireplace was added and it was sided with larger logs. As the resort became known for its beauty and bountiful amenities an additional six cottages were constructed to accommodate guests. At one time it even served as the location of the Harshaw Post Office.

Through the years it has changed owners a number of times with each proprietor fixing and adding to the resort as needed. In 2009 the lodge burned to the ground. The massive stone fireplace was even razed so a new lodge could be constructed in the same spot. Today the resort continues to beckon tourists, vacationers and locals to stay or stop for a cool beverage and to gaze out over the lake and relax from the worries of the day.