Octagon house still an attraction at Hudson

The Octagon House at Hudson is one of the architectural attractions in this part of the state. The home was built in 1855.

     One of the country's unique architectural attractions is in the western Wisconsin area, the octagon House at Hudson.
     Only two octagon houses in the state open the entire home to the public; the other is at Watertown.

Built in 1855

     The unusual home is located at Third and Myrtle streets and was purchased in June, 1964 by the society for $30,000. Although the house was in good condition, it was refurbished and restored, room by room.
     The structure was built in 1855 by Judge John Shaw Moffat who brought the idea of an octagon house to the area. It is regarded as a good illustration of the popularity of that style.
      Four generations of Moffats lived in the house. The last person to live in it was John M. Huges who died about 1957. Margaret Ingram of Eau Claire lived there as Hughes' bride. The house has two floors, a cupola and eight rooms. Some additions were made to the wings in 1915.

Recognized by National Register

     The building was the first in the Hudson area to be recognized on the national register of landmarks.
     Mrs. Moffat recalled, it has been reported, when she first moved to Hudson from New York state, she met Indians carrying what the story says were scalps.
     "There is nothing in the home that did not come from pioneer families in the St. Croix Valley, most of it donated. We try to maintain it as though a family were living here," added Mrs. Eda Gwin, president of the historical society.

- Mary Beeler

Extracted from the Eau Claire Leader Telegram
Special Publication, Our Story 'The Chippewa Valley and Beyond', published 1976
Used with permission.