Now recognized as a National Historical Landmark, the Hixon House was built in 1859 for Gideon Hixon, one of the country?s most famous lumber barons of that time. The house boasts of exquisite Italianate-style woodwork and opulent furnishing for its interiors. His spouse, Ellen, also made sure that the home was designed in Aesthetic style, and much of the interior and furnishing that Ellen had handpicked were preserved after the house went through its last remodelling phase in the early 20th century.

With roughly 90% of its original interior preserved, the Hixon House is considered one of the best preserved historical homes in the country. Another historical property owned by the La Crosse County Historical Society is the Swarthout Museum, which possesses exhibits and displays historical artefacts related to the county?s development over the years.