The William Crosby Home: 1886 Queen Anne Victorian

December 24, 2025

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221 10th Street South: The William Crosby Home – A La Crosse Masterpiece

Welcome to one of the most distinguished residences in the Cass/King Historic District. Known historically as the William Crosby Home, this 1886 Queen Anne Victorian is a sprawling 8,200-square-foot testament to the Gilded Age. William Crosby, a legendary lumber baron and co-founder of the Washburn-Crosby Milling Company (the precursor to General Mills), built this estate to reflect the height of late-19th-century luxury.

Today, after a series of meticulous, multi-year renovations, the property stands as a “move-in ready” sanctuary that blends irreplaceable historic character with every modern high-end convenience imaginable.

Property Luxury Profile

Price: $975,000
Total Living Space: 8,200 sq. ft.
Bedrooms: 6
Bathrooms: 7 Full
Lot Size: 0.48 manicured acres
Year Built: 1886 (William Crosby Legacy Home)

Rare Architectural Detail & Geological Heritage

This home is famous for its use of Grandad Bluff quarried limestone. Sourced from La Crosse’s iconic landmark before it was protected as a park, this stone provides a rugged, majestic foundation and exterior accent that cannot be replicated today.

A World of Rare Woods

The interior is a museum-grade showcase of exotic and native timbers, each original to the home and restored to a deep luster:

Mahogany & Cherry: Used in the grand formal rooms for a warm, opulent atmosphere.
Redwood & Oak: Framing the intricate staircases and private libraries.
Stained & Painted Glass: Elegant, light-refracting windows remain intact, casting vibrant colors across the original polished floors.

Modern Reinvention: The 21st Century Upgrades

While the soul of the home is historic, the infrastructure is brand new. Recent owners have completed a “studs-up” mechanical and aesthetic overhaul:

Gourmet Chef’s Kitchen: A stunning new design featuring professional-grade appliances, custom cabinetry, and premium stone surfaces.
The Master Systems: Completely updated electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and a centralized vacuum system for effortless maintenance.
Exterior Protection: A new roof and a fresh professional paint job preserve the intricate wood siding and shingles.

The Carriage House: A Dual-Income or In-Law Solution

The estate features a massive, rare attached carriage house that offers immense flexibility for the modern homeowner:

Car Enthusiast’s Dream: A heated garage with capacity for six vehicles.
Mother-in-Law / Guest Suite: A fully finished, private apartment above the garage, perfect for multi-generational living, a high-end Airbnb, or a professional home office.
Dual-Entry Lower Level: The main home’s basement features a separate entrance and serves as a second living space, ideal for a nanny suite or long-term guests.

Outdoor Serenity in the Cass/King District

Set on nearly half an acre of prime city real estate, the grounds have been professionally landscaped to provide a private park-like feel.

Irrigation & Lighting: A comprehensive system keeps the lush lawn and gardens vibrant through the Wisconsin seasons.
7 Fireplaces: Whether you are in the grand parlor or a private bedroom, the home features seven luxurious fireplaces to ensure warmth and ambiance.

Location & Investment Value

Living in the Cass/King Historic District puts you at the heart of La Crosse’s cultural hub. You are steps away from downtown dining, the scenic Mississippi riverfront, and vibrant local events. At only $119 per square foot, this 8,200 sq. ft. estate is priced significantly below the cost of a modern build of this scale—not to mention the priceless value of its historical pedigree.