Historic 1868 Farmhouse Kettle Moraine Getaway

Summary:

Escape to an elegantly restored 1868 Italianate manor on 4.5 private acres. Once home to the Johnston Cookie family, this farm blends old-world charm with modern luxury. Whether it’s a family reunion or a romantic retreat, enjoy high tin ceilings, a designer chef’s kitchen, and a master suite with a clawfoot tub. Located in the heart of Kettle Moraine hiking, skiing, and concerts are just minutes away. Relax, unplug, and rejuvenate.



The Space:

Welcome to Beatha Ur Farm - Your Historic Wisconsin Countryside Retreat



Step into "New Life" (Beatha Ur in Scottish Gaelic) at this magnificently restored 1868 Italianate manor. Set on 4.5 private acres in the heart of Wisconsin's scenic Kettle Moraine region, this historic farmhouse seamlessly blends 19th-century architectural grandeur with modern luxury for an unforgettable escape.



🏡 THE PROPERTY

Originally built by the prestigious Johnston Cookie Company family, this elegant manor has been meticulously restored to honor its heritage while providing all the comforts today's travelers expect. Experience authentic farm life with modern conveniences, surrounded by rolling countryside and historic outbuildings.



✨ INTERIOR SPACES

Grand Living Room

• Soaring 12-foot ceilings with original pressed tin details

• Spacious open-concept layout perfect for gathering

• Large smart TV for entertainment

• Period furnishings including historic Pabst Theater chairs

• Floor-to-ceiling windows flooding the space with natural light



Gourmet Chef's Kitchen

• High-quality appliances for serious cooking

• Massive wood-beamed ceilings create stunning visual impact

• Fully stocked for holiday feasts and family meals

• Butler's pantry with farmhouse sink and second dishwasher

• Coffee station with premium coffee provided



Dining Areas

• Formal dining room seats 10+ guests

• Open dining area adjacent to kitchen

• Outdoor dining spaces on multiple decks



🛏️ SLEEPING ARRANGEMENTS (Sleeps 10)

First Floor Master Suite

• Private sanctuary away from main living areas

• Luxurious queen bed with premium linens

• Electric fireplace for cozy ambiance

• Heated bathroom floors for ultimate comfort

• Ensuite bathroom with antique clawfoot soaking tub



Convertible Sleeping Space

• Pull-out queen bed in living room

• Copper tin ceiling

• Flexible accommodations for additional guests



Second Floor Bedrooms (accessed via beautiful mahogany spiral staircase)

• Bedroom 1: Queen bed, stunning curved wall, ornate tin ceiling

• Bedroom 2: Double bed, vintage spinning wheel, sitting area with morning light

• Bedroom 3: Queen bed, flowering cactus, period decor



All bedrooms feature:

• Premium linens and plush bedding

• Period-appropriate vintage furnishings

• Original architectural details preserved

• Modern comfort with historic charm



🛁 BATHROOMS (3 Full Baths)

• Master Bath: Antique clawfoot tub, heated floors, heated towel rack, luxury fixtures

• Bathroom 2: Custom barn door, walk-in tiled shower, heated floors, artisan tilework

• Bathroom 3: Modern glass shower, heated floors, heated towel rack



All bathrooms feature premium Kohler fixtures and spa-quality amenities



🌟 UNIQUE FEATURES

Outdoor Spaces

• NEW 50-foot barn deck with panoramic countryside views

• Multiple covered porches for relaxing

• Historic summer kitchen converted to fire pit area

• Outdoor bar and beverage station

• Line-dried linens for authentic farmhouse experience

• 4.5 private acres to explore



Entertainment

• Vintage arcade game machines

• The Beehive Bar - unique themed entertainment space

• Fire pit with complimentary firewood and s'mores supplies

• Outdoor games and lawn space



Historic Details

• Original 1868 tin ceilings throughout

• Preserved architectural features

• Johnston Cookie Company memorabilia

• Historic farm silo and outbuildings

• Period furnishings and authentic decor



🍯 SPECIAL TOUCHES

• Farm-fresh local honey from our beehives

• Complimentary coffee and tea service

• Fully equipped laundry facilities

• High-speed WiFi throughout

• Smart TVs in living areas

• Central heating and air conditioning

• Ample parking for multiple vehicles



🌾 THE FARM EXPERIENCE

Enjoy exclusive access to the entire 1868 manor house and surrounding farm grounds. Watch stunning sunsets, stargaze by the fire pit, explore historic structures, and experience the peaceful rhythm of farm life - all while being minutes from Lake Geneva's attractions, Kettle Moraine hiking trails, and championship golf courses.



Perfect for family reunions, romantic getaways, friend gatherings, or a peaceful countryside retreat. Whether you're seeking adventure in the nearby Kettle Moraine State Forest or simply want to unplug and unwind, Beatha Ur Farm offers the ideal basecamp for your Wisconsin escape.



Guest Access:

You have full, private access to the entire 1868 manor and the surrounding farm grounds for dining and grilling.



Note: To maintain the farm’s history and safety, the interior of the barn and the marked apiary (beekeeping) area remain private.



The Neighborhood:

Discover the Heart of Wisconsin's Kettle Moraine Region



Nestled in the scenic Kettle Moraine State Forest area near East Troy, our historic farmhouse offers the perfect basecamp for exploring Southern Wisconsin's treasures.



Nearby Towns & Attractions:

• Lake Geneva (10 miles) - Upscale waterfront dining, boutique shopping, historic mansions, and scenic boat tours

• East Troy (5 miles) - Charming downtown with local shops, restaurants, and the East Troy Electric Railroad Museum

• Elkhorn (8 miles) - Historic downtown square with antique shops, dining, and the Webster House Museum

• Delavan (12 miles) - Circus history, lakefront parks, and water activities

• Whitewater (15 miles) - University town with dining and entertainment options



Outdoor Adventures:

Popular Hiking Trails:

• Kettle Moraine State Forest - Southern Unit: Miles of scenic trails including the Ice Age Trail, Scuppernong Springs Nature Trail, and Nordic ski trails

• Emma Carlin Trail System - Mountain biking and hiking trails

• John Muir Trail - Backpacking and day hiking through glacial terrain

• Lapham Peak Unit - Tower views and year-round trail activities



Golf Courses:

• Geneva National Golf Club - Three championship courses designed by Arnold Palmer, Lee Trevino, and Gary Player

• Grand Geneva Resort & Spa - Two premier courses including The Highlands and The Brute

• Evergreen Golf Club - Links-style course in Elkhorn

• Nippersink Golf Club - Picturesque course in Genoa City

• Lake Lawn Resort - Classic lakeside golf experience



Family Attractions:

• Old World Wisconsin (20 minutes) - Living history museum showcasing 19th-century Wisconsin immigrant life with historic buildings, costumed interpreters, and heritage breeds

• Alpine Valley Resort & Music Theatre (8 miles) - Year-round destination featuring world-class skiing and snowboarding in winter, championship golf course in summer, and major concerts at Alpine Valley Music Theatre hosting top touring artists throughout the season





Additional Activities:

• Lake Geneva Cruise Line - Sightseeing and dinner cruises

• Kishwauketoe Nature Conservancy - Bird watching and nature trails

• Local wineries and breweries throughout the region

• Antique shopping in historic downtowns

• Water sports on Geneva Lake, Delavan Lake, and Whitewater Lake



Getting Around:

A car is essential to enjoy this tranquil setting.



Parking: Ample free on-site parking.



Airports: 40 minutes from Milwaukee (MKE); 90 minutes from Chicago (ORD).



Pro Tip: We recommend a rental car to easily explore local golf courses, ski resorts, and lakeside towns.



Other Things to Note:

This is a working hobby farm with an apiary. We may be tending to the gardens, snow removal, or the bees during your stay, but we will never enter your private living space.



Interaction with Guests:

I’m here to ensure you have a fantastic stay! I am available throughout your visit via the app's messaging system and strive to respond within an hour. While I love offering local recommendations for Lake Geneva, I respect your privacy and will give you your space to enjoy the farm.