History of Watertown

THE OCTAGON HOUSE was built by pioneer settler John Richards and completed in 1854. The unique 8-sided design for this grand residence was inspired by New York architect Orson Fowler, who promoted the healthy living aspects of octagonal dwellings in the 1850s.

The solid brick, five-story mansion was built with early forms of central heating, running water, and ventilating systems. A magnificent cantilevered spiral staircase rises four stories from the first floor to the cupola or “tower room” where one can enjoy sweeping vistas of the city and surrounding countryside.

The Octagon House was one of the largest homes built prior to the Civil War in Wisconsin. Its only occupants have been members of the Richards family. Following the passing of Anna Richards Thomas in 1936, the mansion was donated in 1938 to the Watertown Historical Society whose dedicated members have maintained the Octagon House as a public museum ever since.

The museum welcomes over 4,000 visitors each year from all over the world. Tours can consist of individuals, large and small groups, and student field trips. The sites are open to visitors from May-October with fully-guided tours of the Octagon House Museum and self-guided tours of the First Kindergarten and Pioneer Barn. For more information visit octagonhousemuseum.org.

The museum grounds are home to the FIRST KINDERGARTEN in America, a restored pioneer barn, a 1936 model of the Octagon House, and the Watertown History Center, where guests can enjoy rotating historical displays and special events.

The grounds play host to several events throughout the summer. Acoustic acts take the stage on the third Monday of June, July, and August at Music at the Museum. The Octagon House Ice Cream Social with 1st Brigade Band Concert is an annual event held in September. Historic presentations and live theater round out the year. The museum grounds are available as a venue for special events, including weddings and corporate gatherings.

In addition to the Museum, the city boasts several historic districts with eight walking/ driving tour brochures available to guide you through historic neighborhoods and commercial districts, highlighting architecture, ghost signs, and murals. The brochures are available through the Watertown Area Chamber of Commerce and can be downloaded on our Walking and Driving Tours Page.

Watertown is proud to be home to the 1ST BRIGADE BAND. The band makes history live by presenting period brass band music performed on antique instruments. Attired in uniforms and gowns, the Band’s musicians, color guard, and costumed ladies take you back to the 1860’s. More than eighty volunteers make up the 1st Brigade Band. They travel nationwide, delivering over 40 performances annually. Local rehearsals are open to the public. Don’t miss their performance in September at the Annual Ice Cream Social held at the Octagon House Museum.

For those looking to research their family history, the Dodge-Jefferson Counties Genealogical Society, located in Watertown, is available for assistance to both beginners and experienced researchers.