― WASHINGTON COUNTY, WI ―
FARMINGTON
HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Developing, promoting and preserving the historical heritage of the Farmington community.
175 Years of History & Community
The Town of Farmington celebrated its 175th anniversary in 2022. We honor our heritage and pay tribute to those who have helped make this unique community what it is today.
Birth of a Township
On March 11, 1847, Farmington was formally declared a township, not long after the first settlers came to the area. It was common to draw upon the physical surroundings to name a community, and Farmington was no exception. Resisting attempts to rename the Town Carbon, after believed deposits of the element were discovered, or Clarence, after the local postmaster's son, the early settlers retained the name Farmington, clearly reflecting their hopes and desires of becoming a farming community.
The Township quickly developed as a farming community. At least six local cheese factories supplied outlets for milk from area farms. As the Township grew, much of the development, the roads, schools, and local government were all possible because of the efforts and dedication of the local farm families striving to make the Township a strong, dynamic community for their families.
Landmarks & Historic Sites
Saxonia House is a rare example of German “fachwerk” architecture and is one of the largest buildings of its kind in Wisconsin. The building was used as a brewery, a post office, a residence for the brewer's family, a general merchandise & food store, a social hall, and an inn to serve new settlers in the Township. Learn more about Saxonia House and other landmarks that played a part in shaping Farmington's history.
Stories of Farmington
When Sophia Kraetsch was born in 1848, much of Wisconsin was still a wilderness. After a severe illness when she was nine years old, her hands and wrists were deformed, but her fingers were nimble. Undaunted by her disabilities, Sophia was determined to earn her own living, and she decided to become a dressmaker. She wore out four sewing machines during her career as both seamstress and teacher of over 100 ladies.
Discover the rich histories of our places.
A visual insight into Farmington’s past.
Take a look into our past, of the days when our ancestors worked the land, raised their children, shared with their neighbors, and prospered in their communities.
Historic Places Road Tour
We are proud to show the four corners of Farmington, its rural heritage and diverse landscape, in this self-guided, interactive road tour.
MEMORIAL DAY 2025
Remember and Honor
Join us for our annual Memorial Day program of remembrance and wreath-laying ceremony at Fillmore Turner Hall and Union Cemetery.
Get Involved!
We're a friendly and dedicated group of people committed to preserving and celebrating our past. Join the crew!
FARMINGTON HISTORICAL SOCIETY