Welcome to the Boorman House, a fascinating window into the past of Mauston, Wisconsin. Established in 1876, this Victorian mansion is an architectural gem from a bygone era. The house was built by Benjamin C. Boorman, an English immigrant who played a significant role in the development of Mauston. Having acquired the Mauston dam, mills, and water rights in 1864, Boorman was instrumental in rebuilding the local economy after a devastating fire. He constructed a flour and feed mill, a sawmill, and a wool carding mill, helping to solidify Mauston as a burgeoning industrial hub of the time.
As you step through the doors of the Boorman House, you’re not just entering a museum—you’re stepping into the life and times of Mauston during the late 19th century. The grand staircase and elegant drawing room speak volumes of the Victorian era’s architectural sensibilities. The house also features a widow’s walk, a common architectural feature of the time, adding to its historical charm.
The Boorman House is home to the Juneau County Historical Society and showcases an extensive collection of local artifacts, records, and research materials. Here, you can explore the preserved medical office of Dr. McIntosh, along with a building that houses agricultural implements, wagons, and workshops, giving a glimpse into the everyday lives and labor of the community’s past residents.
An intriguing piece of artwork recently returned to the Boorman House is a painting of three dogs, once owned by Wisconsin Governor-elect Orland Steen “Spike” Loomis. This pastel artwork, a gift from Loomis, has a storied history linked to the Hanneman family, who were prominent residents of Mauston. Loomis himself was a notable figure, having served as Mauston city attorney, state representative, and state senator before his untimely death in 1942. The painting, now adorning the library of the Boorman House, serves as a poignant reminder of the interconnected lives that have passed through Mauston’s history.
Today, the Boorman House stands as a testament to Mauston’s rich history and its evolution from a lumber town to a community with diverse historical narratives. Its listing on the National Register of Historic Places ensures that this piece of Wisconsin’s heritage will be preserved for future generations to explore and appreciate.
