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TRAVEL GUIDE |
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Travel Wisconsin and The Octagon House
A stunning five-story brick house stands majestically in the heart of Watertown, Wisconsin. Built before the Civil War, this sprawling house is one of the largest in the city, not to mention of the last remaining examples of 19th century housing. However, the house's history is only part of its appeal - the shape of the building is the other. Built in 1854, this house is shaped like a perfect octagon, boasting eight sturdy walls and a handful of spectacular rooms. An amazing example of architecture and endurance, the Octagon House is a definite must-visit attraction for history and real estate buffs alike.
A wedding promise unlike any other
Designer and builder John Richards completed the Octagon House in 1854. A pioneer and Watertown settler, Richards built the house as a wedding promise to his beloved, Miss Eliza Forbes. Recognized as one of the finest houses in all of Wisconsin, the Octagon House includes central heating, running water and ventilating systems. In addition to these "modern amenities", Richards also built a breathtaking spiral staircase up through the centre of the house.
From an extravagant home to a recognizable landmark
The Richards family and their descendants lived in the Octagon House for nearly 100 years, until William Thomas, Eliza and John's grandson, passed away. Unsure of what to do with the house, the family approached to city, offering to sell the house for just $1. Members of the Watertown Historical Society were shocked by this offered and immediately put forth an offer to purchase the home and preserve it. Lucky for Wisconsin travel tourists, the Richards agreed, and the Octagon House is now one of Watertown's most recognizable Wisconsin travel attractions.
Three buildings, three different ways to look at history
Two other unique buildings are located on the Octagon House property, providing Wisconsin travel tourists with an exciting look at 19th century Midwest life. These buildings include the First Kindergarten in the United States and a pioneer barn. Wisconsin travel tourists will go from learning their ABCs to mastering farming techniques when they visit these town unique buildings, both of which are located within a short distance of the Octagon House.
Luxury lives on in the Octagon House
Wisconsin travel tourists are encouraged to participate in tours of the Octagon House as part of their historical experience in Watertown. Tours of the house and surrounding museum grounds are offered every hour on the hour. Tours are guided by knowledgeable Historical Society members and include a look at the house's Master Bedroom, Dinning Room, Basement Kitchen and East Living Room. Tours last for approximately one hour and are free with admission to the Octagon House and Watertown Historical Society Museum.
More than one hundred years after its creation, the Octagon House still amazes visitors
Wisconsin travel tourists are encouraged to visit this unique tourist attraction as part of their upcoming Mayfair Car Rentals vacation. If you are interested in learning more about the house before setting out on your vacation, simply log onto the Watertown Historical Society website at www.watertownhistory.org. Wisconsin travel tourists can also call 1-920-261-2796 for more details. The Octagon House and Watertown Historical Society is located at 919 Charles Street in Watertown. The Octagon House is open to the public May through October. Hours are 10am to 4pm daily. (Hours are 11am to 3p May 1st through Memorial Day, and Labor Day through October 31st). Admission to the Octagon House and Watertown Historical Society Museum is just $7 for adult Wisconsin travel tourists and $6 for seniors. Children 6 to 17 are admitted for $4. Special events are held at the Octagon House throughout the summer, so be sure to stop in to learn more.
