Bonnie Oaks Historic District Timeline
1853- The “Discovery” of Bonnie Oaks
A military land warrant granted the plot to Cyrus Woodman after this had been previously home to Indigenous people.
1857
Joshua Atwood and Edward R. Cudworth purchased the title to the property known today as Bonnie Oaks.
1860s
The property became a working homestead surrounded by woods and fertile meadows along Neenah Creek. Early residents cultivated the land, built modest outbuildings, and began shaping what would become a small rural community hub. The area’s natural beauty and quiet setting laid the foundation for Bonnie Oaks’ enduring sense of peace and connection to the Wisconsin landscape.
1870-1930
Construction of the 15 vernacular structures on the site—including log houses, barns, and sheds—took place during this period.
Late 19th Century
Alma and John Ormsby became owners; bestowed the name “Bonnie Oaks.” John built many of the existing structures.
1897
Mildred Ormsby, born at Bonnie Oaks, married Milwaukee lawyer Harrison S. Green.
1916
After John Ormsby’s death, Mildred and Harrison Green took over ownership of the property.
At the turn of the century, Bonnie Oaks began to take shape not only as a family estate but as a gathering place for artists, writers, and travelers passing through the Wisconsin countryside. The Ormsby family’s stewardship fostered an environment of creativity and reflection — a retreat from the bustle of Milwaukee and Chicago life. Visitors were drawn to the property’s quiet meadows, oak groves, and the timeless rhythm of Neenah Creek flowing nearby.
1920-1936
Bonnie Oaks served as an informal artists’ retreat, notably for authors and musicians, including Zona Gale, William Maxwell, Margery Latimer, Owen Gromme, Robert Fitzgerald, Paul Robeson, and pianist Josef Lhévinne, who spent summers there from 1922 until his death.
Early Twentieth Century
An archeologist was permitted to excavate a portion of one of the mounds. Statewide archaeological studies indicate that mounds of this kind contain invaluable information that would shed light on Woodland-period lifeways and mortuary customs. The mounds within the Bonnie Oaks Historic District are virtually undisturbed and considered among the best-preserved in Wisconsin.
Click here to learn more about the Effigy Mounds:
April 3rd, 1986
The Bonnie Oaks Historic District was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). The district spans approximately 72 acres.
2025
The Masterson and Ringo families have dedicated so much to the thoughtful restoration of Bonnie Oaks, honoring its remarkable history while preparing it for a new generation of guests. Their work has been driven by a shared commitment to preservation, craftsmanship, and respect for the land’s cultural significance. From meticulously reviving original structures to enhancing the grounds with modern comforts, their efforts reflect a deep love for the property and a desire to keep its legacy alive. Today, Bonnie Oaks stands as a testament to their vision—welcoming visitors to experience the beauty, heritage, and hospitality they’ve poured into every detail.
Survey by Registered Land Surveyor, James Grothman, on May 1, 1992
Date of creation of structures within the Bonnie Oaks Historic District
The grave located on Bonnie Oaks for Mildred Green
Original Bonnie Oaks Frame House
The Site of the Eagle Effigy Mound
National Register of Historic Places
As mentioned above, in 1986 Bonnie Oaks gained recognition in the National Register of Historic Places. Throughout the restoration, we’ve been curiously unpacking and discovering incredible pieces of artwork and literature that have been created and left here.
This section features drawings by Robert Schultz, talented sketch artist and the son of previous owners, William “Bill” and Grace “Polly” Schultz. These fantastic illustrations of the Main house, Log House, Tower, Carpenter Cottage, and Gazebo on Neenah Creek.
