WISCONSIN HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Villa Louis from the side and slightly above, beautiful soft colors and warm light reveal this historic victorian home

Closed for the season

Villa Louis is closed for general admission this season. Thank you to our members and guests for your support during the 2021 season. We look forward to welcoming you back in May for the 2022 season. In the meantime, continue exploring Wisconsin history year-round at Wade House, the Wisconsin Historical Museum and through other Historical Society Events.

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Join us for programs and events

The Wisconsin Historical Society and its historic sites and museums host programs and events for all year long. From fun family adventures, interactive workshops, young adult mixers, and book talks, there’s always something new to explore virtually and in person across the state.

Our Story

Step Back in Time

Walk through the doors of the Villa Louis Mansion and step into the life of one of Wisconsin’s most prosperous historic families. Stroll through the extravagant lifestyle of the Dousman family from the fur trade industry to the end of the 19th century. Located on the banks of the Mississippi River in Prairie du Chien. A historic attraction on the Great River Road!
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"Impressed with the original decor and furnishings being so accurate. Love the personal stories about the family!"

- GUEST REVIEW

Villa Louis Mansion
Coloring Page

The beautiful Villa Louis mansion was the home of the Dousman family in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin. Mrs. Nina Dousman lived here with her five children – Violet, Virginia, Nina, Louis, and Judith – and their servants. The Dousman family’s cook worked hard to make sure everyone in the Villa Louis ate. Her stove burned wood as fuel, just like this stove in the Villa Louis mansion today.”

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Explore Villa Louis


VILLA LOUIS MANSION

Follow the lives of the prosperous Dousman Family as you tour their Victorian home, meticulously restored to its 1890s British Arts & Crafts splendor.
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FUR TRADE MUSEUM

The Fur Trade Museum is temporarily closed as it is undergoing structural rehabilitation. We apologize for any inconvenience. Check back for updates.
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THE SERVANTS’ WORLD

Trace the steps of the working women and men who kept the family estate running, as you visit the servants’ quarters, kitchen, and outbuildings.
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PLAN YOUR VISIT

Begin planning your trip today! Tickets, Hours, Directions and more.

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a digital flyer that says "3 generations of Dousman Family lived here from 1843 to 1913
a digital flyer that says "90% furnishings original to the estate"

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