The synthesis of 3-(3-pyridyl)-2-azabicyclo[2.2.2]octane 1, a semi-rigid analog of anabasine, is reported. This compound is prepared via Lewis acid promoted imino Diels-Alder reaction of 3-pyridine bismethylcarbamate 7 with 1,3-cyclohexadiene to form the rigid azabicyclic backbone. A 6-chloropyridyl analog 2 is also prepared. Hydrogenation and deprotection provide the desired substrates.