Oaklawn Inn: A Historic Setting for Elegant Getaways and Intimate Weddings

For more than 135 years, the Oaklawn Inn has stood as one of western Wisconsin’s most remarkable historic homes. Built in 1889 by lumber baron Andrew Tainter, the Queen Anne Victorian residence was originally constructed for his daughter, Lottie Tainter Seeley, and her husband, George Seeley, superintendent of the renowned Oaklawn Stock Farm. At its peak, the 518-acre farm featured three racetracks, a sixteen-sided barn, horse-training facilities, and some of the most advanced amenities of the era, including indoor plumbing, electricity, hot-water heater, and a private water tower. The farm gained national recognition for its high-bred trotting horses and became a symbol of Menomonie’s prosperity during Wisconsin’s lumber boom. 

Today, the beautifully restored Victorian home remains the last residential reminder of the once-sprawling estate. After serving generations of the Tainter and Dale families, the property was transformed into a bed-and-breakfast in 1998. Current owner Stephanie Perry has carefully restored many of the home's original architectural features, including its soaring eleven-foot ceilings, antique woodwork, Victorian furnishings, and period décor, creating a space that honors the home's history while offering modern comforts. 

The Oaklawn Inn has become known not only for its elegant accommodations but also for its intimate event experiences. With just four guest rooms, a wraparound porch, parlor, great room, and beautifully landscaped grounds, the inn provides a warm and personal atmosphere that larger venues often cannot match. Couples seeking a smaller, more meaningful celebration choose Oaklawn Inn for micro weddings and elopement-style ceremonies. The historic setting offers a romantic backdrop for exchanging vows, hosting a small reception, and creating lasting memories with close family and friends. Full-house rentals allow wedding parties to enjoy exclusive use of the property, turning the celebration into an unforgettable weekend experience. 

Guests are equally drawn to the inn for romantic getaways, afternoon teas, anniversaries, and special occasions. Surrounded by mature trees and timeless Victorian charm, the property offers a peaceful retreat where visitors can slow down, relax, and experience a piece of Wisconsin history. Whether celebrating a wedding, enjoying a weekend escape, or simply appreciating the craftsmanship of a bygone era, the Oaklawn Inn continues to preserve the legacy of Menomonie's past while creating new memories for future generations.