Across Wisconsin, a weird architectural fad from the 1800s still survives. They're called octagon houses, eight-sided homes once promoted as cheaper, healthier, and more efficient than the traditional houses being built around them.

At one point, nearly 100 octagon houses stood across Wisconsin. Today, only 19 remain.

Why did people start building eight-sided houses? What is it actually like to live inside one? And how have these unusual homes managed to survive for more than 170 years?

In this episode, I visit three very different Wisconsin octagon houses in Neenah, Hudson, and Pewaukee. We explore the bizarre origins of the octagon house craze, the families who built and lived in these homes, and the people working to preserve their stories today.

Along the way, we uncover family tragedies, strange architectural quirks, stories passed down through generations, and more than a few ghost stories, including one Wisconsin octagon house where unexplained activity has been reported for nearly a century.

These houses may share the same unusual shape, but after more than 170 years, each one has a very different story to tell.

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If you plan on visiting any of these houses and museums, please check hours and admission ahead of time. Make sure to mention you heard about them on Weird Wisconsin. The Deacon Smith Octagon house in Pewaukee is a private residence, however Jeff is a very friendly owner and I'm sure if he has the time, he'd love to chat with you.

Hudson Octagon House & Museum
📍Hudson, Wisconsin
Website

Neenah Historical Society & Hiram Smith Octagon House
📍Neenah, Wisconsin
Website

Deacon West Octagon House
📍Pewaukee, Wisconsin
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Episode Artwork by Rachal Duggan
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Original Theme by Tyler Quinn
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