Gollmar Guest House Bed & Breakfast

If you’re in Baraboo for a “full circus” experience, including a day at Circus World and an evening performance at the lovely Al Ringling Theatre, you might select to stay at the historic Gollmar Guest House, another circus-era home in Baraboo.

Built between 1889 and 1894 by railroad engineer, William G. Wallace, this house is an excellent and rare example of the Shingle Style. Notice how the gable ends are pushed out and there is no roof overhang or eave. This is very characteristic of the style that emphasizes the forms that make up the house wrapped in a tight “skin” usually of decorative shingles. Some features of Queen Anne Free Classic style are also apparent. These would include the turned porch columns and a panel on the west side with free flowing ribbons. Inside, the house boasts a hand painted cherub ceiling over the impressive staircase as well as several original light fixtures. Note the lamp on the stair newel post. Also notice the intact butler’s pantry and Depression Era mural painted in the dinning room.

The house past through several hands, but was once owned by Baraboo mayor and doctor, Mr. D. M. Kelly. It was purchased in 1914 by Benjamin Gollmar who was the treasurer of the Gollmar Brothers Circus, which started here in Baraboo in 1891. The Gollmars lived here for two generations, Viola Gollmar (the youngest daughter) and Leora (Gollmar) Phillips. Thomas R. Luck bought the house from Leora (Gollmar) Phillips in 1979.  The present owners bought the home in 2002.

The B & B is nicely decorated with Victorian-era antiques and the rooms are quiet and very comfortable. Original hand-painted ceiling murals, beveled glass windows, chandeliers, beaded oak woodwork and hardwood floors are only part of the charm in this exquisite home furnished with original furniture and antiques.

The owners have a scrapbook of Gollmar Circus memorabilia and articles available to guests.