In the 1800s, lumber and mining barons were the kings of Wisconsin, and in the state’s new cities, they built castles of wood. While the lumber and mining booms are long over, many of these stately homes remain and in the far northern reaches of the state, you’ll find one of the biggest of these old castles. It’s called Fairlawn Mansion and it’s arguably one of the most beautiful houses in Wisconsin. Here’s what you need to know to pay this grand old home a visit.

The Fairlawn Mansion was built for the family of a mining and lumber baron. Martin Pattison, his wife Grace, and their six children lived in the stately home.

Superior Public Museums

No expense was spared in the home’s construction. The mansion was completed in 1891 at a cost of $150,000 – that’s the equivalent of nearly $5 million today!

Superior Public Museums

The Pattison family lived in the Queen Anne Victorian house until 1920 – it later became a children’s home for about four decades. Today it’s a museum.

Google / Elna Green

The home is incredible. It has expansive lawns and gardens, gilded ceiling murals, a grand entrance hall, and original stained glass windows.

Google / JoAnn Jardone

The home’s most impressive feature reaches skyward. A four-story tower has a “widow’s watch” and panoramic views of the bay. It’s incredible!

Superior Public Museums

Tours are offered of the 42-room, four-story home year round and visitors are allowed to stroll the grounds. There’s also a lively annual ice cream social and concert held at the Fairlawn that takes place each summer.

Google / Jill Larson

Fairlawn Mansion’s tours depart hourly from the Carriage House Gift Shop.  Learn more about visiting this special home on the Fairlawn Mansion website. If you’re considering a getaway, Superior has a lot of great attractions – including a spot for a majestic beach hike.

Superior Public Museums

Google / Elna Green

Google / JoAnn Jardone

Google / Jill Larson

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Address: Fairlawn Mansion & Museum, 906 E 2nd St #3245, Superior, WI 54880, USA