About Us/History

History

The year was 1865 when an enterprising barrel cooper from Milwaukee named William Thompson journeyed to Mazomanie and began building this stately home.

Financed by his success with the Mazomanie Flour Mill, Thompson constructed this impressive Italianate home.

In 1899 Dr. John Kester bought the house and opened his Practice with Dr. Pinckerton. He also raised race horses in the Carriage house in back. He died in 1923 leaving his wife Lenora to live in the house a total of 55 years. She lived in the house from 1899 until age 90 in 1954. She was a teacher at Richland County before she married Dr. Kester in 1888.

Our town’s name, Mazomanie, comes from Chief Mazomani, a leader of the Sioux of Minnesota.  His name translates to “The Iron That Walks,” or “Walking Iron.” Our town was named by Edward Brodhead, a superintendent of the railroad during the 1850’s.

Chief Mazomani was described as a firm friend of the whites. He was wounded on September 23, 1862, in a battle between a band of Indians led by Little Crow, a Sioux chief, and the U.S. Army near Yellow Medicine River, Minnesota. Chief Mazomani had sought a flag of truce, but was shot while running toward the Army’s lines. He died several days later.

One hundred and thirty-one years later, David and Karisa Friske became the new owners, and the monumental task of restoring the home to its original grandeur became their goal.

The owners began a full-scale restoration in 1996. Three years later the doors were open. They raised their children here.

Over the years they have restored the carriage house and converted it into their personal residence. It was built in 1909 and was converted into an art studio in the early 1980’s. Cathedral ceilings and oak beams blended with the rustic decor make their home a real contrast to the Victorian splendor of the main house.

Fast forward to 2019 when Justin and Jennifer Martinez purchased The Bed & Breakfast. The Bed & Breakfast will not only accommodate guests but will host Weddings, events and parties. there is a Speak Easy open to the general public 5:00-10:00pm on Friday and Saturday nights with yard games, a beer garden, and frequent live music. We have a lower level Spa for guests. We will rent out Kayaks, and Snow Shoes. We will continue to keep the house in its grand restored fashion as we are lovers of history, antiques and architecture.