Watching Carla Wilson making pies and breads in an old movie theater is like watching the end of a feel-good film: pure joy. Now that she is opening her own bakery downtown it’s just the beginning of a new story for the Lindsborg native.
The stage was set after the Plaza Theater was transformed in the early 80s by Maleta and Wayne Forsberg with several shops that featured art and baked goods in a setting that felt like you were walking into a European village.
Carla began baking at the Courtyard in 1987, learning her craft alongside owners Jud and Connie Barclay. “We had a contract with Bloomingdale's in New York, which led to us making and shipping bread sculptures nationwide,” she said. The demand for authentic Swedish breads and treats kept the bakery humming, especially during local festivals. “During Svensk Hyllningsfest we baked so much bread we stacked it 4 loaves high and filled the full size bed of my 1970 pickup. We sold out!”
It’s a new chapter for Wilson now under the 350 Degrees brand as Norman and Kathy Peterson have purchased the property and turn a fresh page for the historic building with a few remaining shops that will possibly be filled with local students’ artwork plus another retail space. “We want to be a blessing to Lindsborg,” said Kathy, who along with Norman has been overseeing the remodeling of the office/retail spaces.
Carla says that the 350-degree setting is the most common temperature for baking treats like muffins and pies, and most breads. It’s also the name of the new shop she and her family chose as they began the journey of opening up a bakery in the former Courtyard Gallery. Because family has been such an integral part of the process, from laying new flooring to moving heavy equipment and designing the logo, visitors will feel right at home as they order at the counter and enjoy the baked goods at 350 Degrees.
The bakery opens Wednesday, March 3. Hours of operation: Wednesday- Saturday 8:30am- 3pm.
Edited to add: in March of 2022, the 350 Degrees outgrew its space and relocated to 118 S. Main Street in Lindsborg. Newly established at the Courtyard are Indigo Moo’d Ice Cream, and Pastries by Rachel, along with the gallery art on display and for sale.