Bowman House (Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Bowman House
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The Bowman House in 2013
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 Location in Wisconsin
Location in the United States
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| Location | 714 Broadway St., Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1904 |
| Architectural style | Prairie School |
| NRHP reference No. | 86000621 |
| Added to NRHP | April 3, 1986 |
The Bowman House is a special historic home located in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin. It was built in 1904 and has a unique design called the Prairie School style. This house has a fascinating history, changing from a family home to a vacation spot for women, and finally becoming a museum for everyone to enjoy.
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Discovering the Bowman House
The Bowman House stands at 714 Broadway Street in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin. It was built over 100 years ago in 1904. This beautiful home was originally built for a couple named Abram and Alberta Bowman.
What is Prairie School Architecture?
The Bowman House is a great example of the Prairie School style of architecture. This design was very popular around the time the house was built. A famous architect named Frank Lloyd Wright helped make this style well-known.
Key Features of Prairie School
Prairie School homes often look like they are part of the landscape. They usually have a strong horizontal look, meaning they seem wider than they are tall. You'll also notice low roofs with wide, flat edges called eaves. These features make the Bowman House look very distinctive and connected to the ground.
A Home with a Changing Purpose
The Bowman House has had several different lives over the years. It started as a family home and later became a special place for many women.
From Family Home to Vacation Spot
Abram Bowman, who built the house, passed away in 1907. His daughters, Emma and Jennie Bowman, then inherited the home. Jennie Bowman had a wonderful idea for the house. When she passed away in 1934, she arranged for the house to become a vacation home. This special place was for working women who needed a relaxing getaway.
Becoming a Historic Museum
The Bowman House served as a vacation home for many years, offering a peaceful retreat. In 1977, the Dells Country Historical Society took over the house. They saw its historical importance and decided to turn it into a historic house museum. Today, visitors can explore the house and learn about its past.
Recognized as a Historic Place
The Bowman House is so important that it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This special list recognizes buildings, sites, and objects that are significant in American history. The Bowman House was officially added to this list on April 3, 1986. This means it is protected and celebrated for its historical value.
