Watertown, Wisconsin: Octagon House

Twice as interesting as a typical four-sided house? Contains many rooms, cantilever spiral staircase. Built in 1854; historical marker. On the property: First Kindergarten in the U.S.

Address:: 919 Charles St., Watertown, WI
Directions:: East side of the city. On the east side of Charles St. at its intersection with Sunset Ave.
Hours:: Open May-Oct. 11-3 (Call to verify) Local health policies may affect hours and access.
Phone:: 920-261-2796
Admission:: Adults $8.

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Cantilever spiral staircase.

Octagon House

A delightful surprise, this home features the Richards' family history along with the town. About 60% of the artifacts are original from the family. You get to explore the entire home, unlike most historical sites where you're only allowed to see a portion. Our tour guide was knowledgeable and incredibly friendly.

The property also has a barn with milling equipment, and the first kindergarten.

[Leah, 08/25/2020]

Historical marker.

Octagon House

A museum "un-popular" with locals who have visited it yearly since kindergarten. Restored and outfitted with period pieces and staffed by local professionals, a neat place for outsiders to visit. Also on the grounds of the Octagon House is the First Kindergarten in the United States. Neat fact: Watertown was once on the shortlist of cities for State Capitol (lost to Madison). After, go to Kraemer's cheese factory and for an olde fashioned Malt at Mullen's.

[Andrew Johnson, 04/20/2016]

Five stories high with 57 rooms, according to its historical marker. August 2020: Photo added.