The historic Keefe House will be all dressed up and open for tours again!
Owner Darren Durman is hosting his 2 nd Annual Holiday Open House on Dec. 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, and 20, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. each day. Admission is a free will donation to support the Jackson County Historical
Society.
Located at 221 N. Third St. in Black River Falls, the Keefe House was recently listed on both the Wisconsin
and National Register of Historic Places for its architectural significance. The lovingly tended home will be
all decked out for the season, with nearly 30 Christmas trees and decorations ranging from antique to
modern. Guests are invited to tour all three levels of the home.
James J. McGillivray, a prominent area builder and architect in the late 1800s through early 1900s, designed the residence and completed it in 1910.
Originally built for A.J. Klofanda, owner of the People’s Drug Store in Black River Falls, he abruptly sold
his business and the house before the interior was finished. Franklin and Eva Keefe became the first
occupants when they bought the home in 1910.
The Keefe’s held an annual open house, with Eva hosting many Christmas socials. It was a special time of
year for them as Eva’s birthday was December 22, and her daughter Verna’s birthday was on Christmas Day.
The house highlights the stately and distinguished style of the Colonial Revival and the ornamental features of the Queen Anne style, with Craftsman, Victorian, and Classical elements. Largely unchanged throughout its history, the home’s original character defining features remain intact.
Don’t miss your chance to experience the festive decor at the beautiful Keefe House while helping preserve the history of Jackson County.
About the Jackson County Historical Society Established in 1935, the Jackson County Historical Society is an all-volunteer, non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the history of Jackson County, Wisconsin. Their mission is to educate individuals
about Jackson County and inspire an appreciation of the area’s rich history.
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