THE HISTORY OF US
When it started in1839
Step back in time with Foolery's origins dating to 1839, when the first building was established in Okauchee. Once a water-powered sawmill built by Orson Reed, our site played a key role in Wisconsin's early development, supplying lumber for historic routes like the Watertown Plank Road. Come see where history meets lakeside relaxation.
The Windmill
1917 the windmill placed currently where our big blue chair sits for photos powering the mill that help paved the roads in Milwaukee
The House
The arrival of the railroad in 1855 combined with the high expense of maintaining wooden roads cut plank road travels short. By 1863 the road was dilapidated and dangerous. After the death of Israel McConnell in 1871 his wife, Vesta, continued operation of the inn until 1874. She lived in the house until her death in 1893. Fred Faulkner bought the then vacant structure in 1911 and reopened it as a resort hotel. In 1929 the building reverted to a private residence.