The year was 1865; the nation was mourning the loss of Abraham Lincoln, an eighteen-year-old boy named Edison was launching his career, and an enterprising barrel cooper from Milwaukee named William Thompson journeyed to Mazomanie and began building his stately home.

Financed by success with the Mazomanie Flour Mill, Thompson constructed an impressive Italianate home complete with an ornate wraparound verandah, eight-sided porch columns and scrolled brackets, second-story balcony, and widow's walk cupola. To impress business associates and peers, Thompson installed a beautiful curving staircase in the foyer, southern yellow pine floors in the parlor, and plenty of ornamental plasterwork.

Originating from Chief Mazomani, a leader of the Sioux of Minnesota. His name translates to "The Iron That Walks" or "Walking Iron". Edward Brodhead, a superintendent of the railroad during the 1850's, named our town, probably after a suggestion from Hercules Dousman, (Wisconsin's first millionaire).

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 US Army near Yellow Medicine River, Minnesota. Mazomani had sought a flag of truce, but was shot while running toward the Army's lines. He died several days later. Mazomani, and our town's rich railroad history, both reflect the name "Walking Iron".

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.

With a unique vision to share the interesting history and beautiful architecture with the public, the owners began a full-scale restoration in 1996. Walking Iron Bed and Breakfast brings an elegant and special place to life for travelers from everywhere...

Karisa is employed full-time as a para-educator at the Glacier Creek Middle School. She recently transitioned from management at Kraft Foods to start a new career in education. She enjoys working with children and doesn't miss the 12-hour days at Kraft! When he's not busy restoring the bed and breakfast, David works on other people's homes! He operates Walking Iron Restorations, a construction company focusing on historic property preservation, design and decor. He graduated with a Communications degree from UW-Madison. Our children are Kaia, age 16, Zane, age 14, and Colt, age 12.

Over the years we have spent our spare time (ha!) restoring the carriage house into our 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 our home a real contrast to the Victorian splendor of the main house!

See our beautiful rooms.