National Register Listing

Chapel of St. Mary the Virgin

2 mi. SW of Nashotah on Nashotah House Rd., Nashotah, WI
Local significance of the building:
Architecture; Religion

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1972.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

The famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright was born and raised in Wisconsin. Many of his most famous buildings, including Taliesin and the Johnson Wax headquarters, are located in the state.
Wisconsin random facts
Waukesha County, located in southeastern Wisconsin, has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, such as the Menominee and Potawatomi, who used the abundant natural resources for their livelihoods. European settlement began in the 1830s, with Yankee pioneers establishing small farming communities and mills along the Fox River.

In the mid-19th century, the construction of the Milwaukee and Mississippi Railroad brought significant growth and economic development to Waukesha County. The first train arrived in the county in 1851, connecting the area to Milwaukee and stimulating trade and transportation. This led to the establishment of new towns, such as Pewaukee, Oconomowoc, and Waukesha, the county seat.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the county became a popular destination for wealthy urban residents seeking a retreat from city life. The region's picturesque lakes and scenic landscapes attracted tourists and led to the development of resort communities, including Delafield and Nashotah. These communities flourished as vacation spots and continued to attract visitors well into the 20th century.

Over time, Waukesha County evolved into a suburban area with a strong emphasis on education and healthcare. The region experienced rapid population growth throughout the 20th century, and many companies and industries relocated to the county. With its proximity to Milwaukee, Waukesha County has become a desirable place for families seeking a suburban lifestyle while remaining close to urban amenities.

Today, Waukesha County is known for its high standard of living, beautiful parks, and excellent school systems. It continues to grow and thrive, maintaining its reputation as a desirable place to live, work, and visit.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Waukesha County, Wisconsin.

  • 1834: Waukesha County is established as the final of Wisconsin's original counties.
  • 1836: Waukesha becomes the first county seat.
  • 1846: The City of Waukesha is incorporated.
  • 1852: The Wisconsin Territorial Legislature establishes the State of Wisconsin's first mental institution in Wauwatosa.
  • 1874: The Milwaukee and Mississippi Railroad starts operation in Waukesha County.
  • 1893: The City of Oconomowoc is incorporated.
  • 1901: The first electric interurban railway, The Milwaukee Electric Railway and Light Company, operates in Waukesha.
  • 1903: Waukesha County Parks System is established.
  • 1958: Carroll College (now Carroll University) gains university status.
  • 2000: Waukesha County Technical College celebrates its centennial anniversary.