The Restoration Project
When the Johnson House was originally constructed it was not by today’s construction standards, e.g. the exterior siding solely functioned to stabilize the building. The latter has not stood the test of time as the building has shifted from previous foundational instability and normal aging. Windows are no longer properly aligned. Attempts to improve the exterior appearance of the building have been compromised due to aged wood siding. Constant painting and caulking have placed a temporary band aid on appearance but have not solved the problems.
Three-year Preservation Plan
Over a 3 year restoration plan, the Johnson House will be restored and stabilized choosing materials and workmanship that guarantees that a project of this magnitude will not be needed in the future. The Johnson House and its significant contribution to the grand experience of Three Lakes history will be secure.
PHASE ONE: BEGAN IN FALL 2024
We are excited to report that the foundation of the Johnson House has been rebuilt to assure the house will stand for at least another 140 years! Before work could begin on the exterior certain structure issues had to be addressed. The foundation of the house was in need of extensive repairs as many of the structural beams, some the original birch bark, were seriously deteriorated. That work has now been completed and the house sits squarely on new sill plates and is supported by new main beams and floor joints.
The exterior work has now begun on the front of the house. Beginning with the front wall on Huron Street ( facing south) and one half of the east wall (facing the Library and the Museum Visitor Center) the siding will be replaced and the bay window restored to its original appearance. This area of the house is by far the most damaged and compromised. Stairs used for egress from the second floor which were not to code, have been removed and will be rebuilt as they are required as a fire exit from the second floor. The choice of Diamond Kote Smart Siding on the house was made to respect the historic appearance of the house, replicating the exact look of the existing wood siding, however with little or no future maintenance.
FUNDING
Funding the project will be a joint effort by everyone who has a stake in preserving this important piece of Three Lakes history. The project funding will be spread over 3 years.
Phase 1 – the most extensive repairs, is estimated at $40,000. Phases 2 & 3 are estimated at $20,500 each for a total of $81,000. The Society kicked off fundraising in September of 2024. when the project was announced .
We are pleased to report that through the generosity of our members and friends, the support of the Town of Three Lakes, the Three Lakes Community Foundation, and a generous local charity we are very close to our
goal for Phase 1. The capital campaign will continue as we raise funds for phases 2 and 3.
Please help us preserve this important part of Three Lakes history!
Donate online or by mail to PO Box 250, Three Lakes, WI 54562
We are a 501 (3) (c) organization EIN 39-1557225 and your donations are tax deductible to the extent
allowable by law.
QUESTIONS
Please contact the Three Lakes Historical Society, Board President, Bill Hayes, or the staff of the Three Lakes Historical Museum, Susan Kelly Panian or Kyle McMahon.
Bill Hayes [email protected] – 602-317-3325
Susan Kelly Panian [email protected] - 203-610-3785
Kyle McMahon [email protected] - 715-891-2792
When the Johnson House was originally constructed it was not by today’s construction standards, e.g. the exterior siding solely functioned to stabilize the building. The latter has not stood the test of time as the building has shifted from previous foundational instability and normal aging. Windows are no longer properly aligned. Attempts to improve the exterior appearance of the building have been compromised due to aged wood siding. Constant painting and caulking have placed a temporary band aid on appearance but have not solved the problems.
Three-year Preservation Plan
Over a 3 year restoration plan, the Johnson House will be restored and stabilized choosing materials and workmanship that guarantees that a project of this magnitude will not be needed in the future. The Johnson House and its significant contribution to the grand experience of Three Lakes history will be secure.
PHASE ONE: BEGAN IN FALL 2024
We are excited to report that the foundation of the Johnson House has been rebuilt to assure the house will stand for at least another 140 years! Before work could begin on the exterior certain structure issues had to be addressed. The foundation of the house was in need of extensive repairs as many of the structural beams, some the original birch bark, were seriously deteriorated. That work has now been completed and the house sits squarely on new sill plates and is supported by new main beams and floor joints.
The exterior work has now begun on the front of the house. Beginning with the front wall on Huron Street ( facing south) and one half of the east wall (facing the Library and the Museum Visitor Center) the siding will be replaced and the bay window restored to its original appearance. This area of the house is by far the most damaged and compromised. Stairs used for egress from the second floor which were not to code, have been removed and will be rebuilt as they are required as a fire exit from the second floor. The choice of Diamond Kote Smart Siding on the house was made to respect the historic appearance of the house, replicating the exact look of the existing wood siding, however with little or no future maintenance.
FUNDING
Funding the project will be a joint effort by everyone who has a stake in preserving this important piece of Three Lakes history. The project funding will be spread over 3 years.
Phase 1 – the most extensive repairs, is estimated at $40,000. Phases 2 & 3 are estimated at $20,500 each for a total of $81,000. The Society kicked off fundraising in September of 2024. when the project was announced .
We are pleased to report that through the generosity of our members and friends, the support of the Town of Three Lakes, the Three Lakes Community Foundation, and a generous local charity we are very close to our
goal for Phase 1. The capital campaign will continue as we raise funds for phases 2 and 3.
Please help us preserve this important part of Three Lakes history!
Donate online or by mail to PO Box 250, Three Lakes, WI 54562
We are a 501 (3) (c) organization EIN 39-1557225 and your donations are tax deductible to the extent
allowable by law.
QUESTIONS
Please contact the Three Lakes Historical Society, Board President, Bill Hayes, or the staff of the Three Lakes Historical Museum, Susan Kelly Panian or Kyle McMahon.
Bill Hayes [email protected] – 602-317-3325
Susan Kelly Panian [email protected] - 203-610-3785
Kyle McMahon [email protected] - 715-891-2792
