Sometimes a historic property hits the market in a community and based on its age alone, it's a place many people want to look at even if they can't buy it.

However, once in a while, a historic property hits the market with a backstory just as intriguing as the property itself.

That's what happened recently with a historic Wisconsin property originally built for one of the city's first mayors. His being elected mayor was a surprise to many at the time, but what happened during what would actually be two stints as mayor is the stuff of legend.

Minnesota Now logo
Get our free mobile app

Home Built For Notorious Mayor In Wisconsin Is Now For Sale

A property has hit the market in Superior, Wisconsin and it's rich with colorful history!

The home, located at 1202 E. 4th Street near Gouge Park, was built in 1890 for a man who the Douglas County Historical Society says was the City of Superior's 6th mayor, and it's quite a story!

The Douglas County Historical Society has said that Charles Starkweather moved to Superior from Vermont in 1889. After first being elected to the common council in 1893, he became the city’s mayor in 1895.

It sounds like he was somewhat of a rebel as Starkweather was controversially impeached after allowing saloons to have unlicensed gambling and because he allowed liquor sales on Sundays. In protest, he then swiftly put a padlock on the door to the mayor’s office to keep everyone out.

Eventually, Starkweather did leave and Martin Pattison became Superior's new mayor, but two years later Starkweather ran for mayor again and got the job.

Charles Starkweather passed away in 1918, but his legacy lives on, as does the home built for him. Now, you could own that piece of history.

The 4,128 square-foot home has 5 bedrooms and two baths and from the wrap-around covered porch to the carved wood inside, it's filled with historic charm.

Once you open the double front doors you'll instantly notice the workmanship of days gone by with hardwood floors, carved wood and coffered ceilings, and ornate touches everywhere you look.

Of course, there are also modern updates including Anderson windows, a tiled fireplace, a custom eat-in kitchen, a custom coffee bar/server, an updated bathroom with a main floor walk-in shower, and a lot more.

Take a look at this historic, turn-key property. It hit the market in September 2024 and is currently listed for $515,000.

The home was recently used as a short-term rental under a Tourist Rooming House license so while it would make a great primary residence, it could also be used as an investment property.

Gallery Credit: David Drew

50+ Items That Aren't Accepted At Wisconsin Goodwill Stores

Doing some spring cleaning? Make sure you know what isn't accepted at Goodwill locations across Wisconsin before you do a drop-off.

Gallery Credit: Lauren Wells

Minnesota Now logo
Get our free mobile app

LOOK: This is the best place to live in every state

Stacker compiled a list of the best places to live in every state using Niche's 2023 rankings, from planned communities to college towns.  

Gallery Credit: Stacker