Landmarks Commission
About The Oshkosh Landmarks Commission
The Landmarks Commission was established in 1983 by the Oshkosh Common Council. Among the duties and responsibilities of the Commission, as defined in Chapter 2 of the City’s Municipal Code, the Commission is charged with:
- Fostering the protection, enhancement and perpetuation of historic improvements and of districts which represent or reflect elements of the City's cultural, social, economic, political and architectural history.
- Safeguarding and fostering civic pride in the City's historic and cultural heritage as embodied in its landmarks and historic districts.
Landmarks Commission Meetings
2nd Wednesday of each month
3:00 pm
Room 203
City Hall - 215 Church Avenue, Oshkosh, WI
Members of the public are invited to attend and may
speak on any agenda item.
Click here for information on Landmarks Commission Agendas and Minutes.
Historic Background
The streets of Oshkosh were first paved in something better than gold; they were paved in one-inch thick pine. Timber brought a boom to our river town that rivaled any gold rush. Lumber barons turned massive rafts of north woods timber into planks that helped build a nation. Entrepreneurs and merchants erected grand buildings and opened shops. Doctors, artists, lawyers and laborers also came to this special city that smelled of fresh sawdust. Sawmills roared and the city flourished.
The streets of Oshkosh are no longer paved in pine. But you can still follow them to an enduring and golden past. The buildings of Oshkosh provide a record of the city’s development and of the variety of architectural styles which have had an impact on the community. Major national trends are represented, often with a slight time lag and longer overlap of styles.
In terms of architectural development, the most interesting period is spanning the late 1880’s through the early 1900’s. This time period includes the largest number of significant designs and the best examples of work by local craftsmen. The city’s orientation toward lumber and woodworking concerns is particularly evident during this time. We welcome you to explore our many historic buildings, streets and neighborhoods.
The legacy of these early residents lives on. Discover that legacy today in Historic Oshkosh. View stately homes and iconic downtown business buildings. Experience museums, galleries, and grand public buildings.
Visit out Facebook page and the Discover Historic Oshkosh website linked below!
