In the early 1870’s, the Hovener family immigrated from Prussia to Ozaukee County, Wisconsin. Within several months Louis Hovener had purchased 300 acres to begin a new life and build a new farmstead. Along with wife Sophia and two sons, their dairy farm prospered and they added buildings.

The original small, farm home was in the current front yard. By the early 1890’s with increasing farming success, the Hoveners opted to build a grand Federal style stone home on the property. Quarrying and hauling stone by horse and wagon from the nearby Milwaukee River, the finishing touches were added in 1895 and the family moved in. Louis and Sophia, son Henry and wife Maria, and by 1907, grandchildren Louisa and Leslie also called it home.

Due to a fire in the early 1900’s a second barn was built atop the existing barn foundation. The farm met continued success, expanded with a chicken coop/hog shed in the 1920’s, a woodshed and corn crib. In 1928 electrical service ‘came through’ and an equipment shed was built in the early 1930’s (currently our Admission Barn).

In 1995, 100 years after the home was built, we purchased the property from Louis’ granddaughter, Louisa Hovener. In 1997 we opened The Family Farm of Ozaukee County, LLC. agribusiness. In March of 2007, our beautiful 100 year-old centerpiece barn was destroyed by fire. By 2008, we had rebuilt the top - the third top - on the original 1890’s foundation. Today it is our Event Loft, offering space for gatherings up to 220 people.

We have developed a short film about the history of the farm. It is located in the Admission Barn and is available for viewing during regular business hours. Come on in and learn more!