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Octagon House Museum and its collection

Octagon House Museum
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The Octagon House, located in Watertown, Wisconsin, is a historic site that was built in 1854. It is also known as the Octagon House Museum or the John Richards Octagon House. The house was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1971, marking it as a significant part of the country's history.

The Origins of the Octagon House

The Octagon House was designed and built by John Richards, a pioneering lawyer and mill owner in Watertown. The construction of the house was completed in 1854 and it remained in the Richards family until 1935, following the death of Richards' grandson, William Thomas.

Architectural Features of the Octagon House

The Octagon House is currently a museum that is open to the public. The house is constructed of brick and measures 50 feet across, excluding the balconies. It features eight square rooms on each floor and triangular rooms in the corners, totaling 32 rooms, including the cupola.

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FRMaison octogonale (Watertown, Wisconsin)

History & Anthropology History & Anthropology Historic house

#12 History & Anthropology in Wisconsin #10 Historic houses in Wisconsin

#12 History & Anthropology in Wisconsin #10 Historic houses in Wisconsin
Octagon House Museum
919 Charles St
WI 53094 Watertown
Wisconsin

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Visitor information Octagon House Museum

Opening hours

May
Saturday and Sunday
12:00 - 15:00

Memorial Day-Labor Day
Wednesday - Monday
12:00 - 15:00

September and October
Saturday and Sunday
12:00 - 15:00

Admission

6 – 17US$5.00
AdultsUS$10.00
SeniorsUS$9.00

Facilities

We don't have information about the facilities of Octagon House Museum.

Location & Map

919 Charles St, Watertown

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Exhibitions

No exhibitions in Octagon House Museum have been found.

Octagon House Museum Reviews

Octagon House Museum has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    The Octagon House Museum in Watertown, United States, offers visitors an intriguing look into 19th-century architecture and local history. Built in 1854, this unusual eight-sided house stands as a well-preserved example of a brief architectural trend from that era. The museum provides guided tours that showcase period furnishings and give insight into the daily life of its original inhabitants.

    Visitors often appreciate the unique octagonal design and the historical significance of the building. The knowledgeable guides are frequently praised for their engaging presentations and ability to bring the house's history to life. Many reviewers find the architectural details and restoration work impressive.

    However, some visitors note that the museum is relatively small, which may limit the time spent there. A few reviewers mention that the tour can feel rushed at times, especially during busy periods. Additionally, accessibility might be an issue for some, as the historic nature of the building means there are stairs to navigate.

    Overall, the Octagon House Museum is generally well-regarded for its historical value and educational experience, making it a worthwhile stop for history enthusiasts and architecture buffs visiting Watertown.

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