Nestled in the heart of Wisconsin’s Lake Country, Oconomowoc is a charming city known for its lakes, historic downtown, and vibrant community. While it’s a popular spot for summer getaways and local festivals, Oconomowoc holds plenty of surprises beneath its surface. Here are 10 lesser-known facts about this gem that will spark your curiosity.
1. Its Name Means “Where the Waters Meet”
Oconomowoc’s name comes from the Potawatomi word *Coo-no-mo-wauk*, loosely translated as “waterfall” or “where the waters meet.” The city’s location between Fowler Lake, Lac La Belle, and other waterways reflects this poetic origin, tying it to the area’s natural beauty and Native American heritage.
2. It Hosted the World Premiere of The Wizard of Oz
Oconomowoc claims a piece of Hollywood history as one of the first places to screen *The Wizard of Oz* in 1939. The city leans into this legacy with Oz Plaza downtown, featuring a yellow brick road, character statues, and a mural of the Emerald City—a delight for movie buffs and families.
3. A Gangster Hideout in the 1920s
During Prohibition, Oconomowoc’s secluded lakeshores attracted infamous gangsters like Al Capone, John Dillinger, and Baby Face Nelson. Wealthy Chicagoans built summer homes here, and rumors persist of secret tunnels and hideouts used by these colorful figures to evade the law.
4. Home to the Outboard Motor’s Inventor
Ole Evinrude, who revolutionized boating by inventing the outboard motor in 1907, lived in Oconomowoc. His innovation transformed recreation on the city’s lakes, and you can explore early boat motors at the Oconomowoc and Lake Country Museum’s dedicated exhibit.
5. Once Called the “Newport of the West”
From the 1870s to the Great Depression, Oconomowoc was a ritzy summer retreat for tycoons from Chicago and Milwaukee. Families like the Pabsts and Millers built lavish lakefront estates, and six U.S. presidents—Cleveland, Harrison, Grant, Taft, Coolidge, and Roosevelt—visited, earning Main Street the nickname “Avenue of the Presidents.”
6. A Gas Explosion Leveled a Historic Church
In 2008, a gas line explosion destroyed the First Baptist Church, a 1913 landmark on Wisconsin Avenue. The blast, caused by a backhoe hitting an old capped line, left only the bell tower’s frame standing, which was later demolished for safety. It’s a stark reminder of the town’s modern challenges.
7. Black Hawk Camped Here
Before European settlers arrived, the region was home to Potawatomi “mound builders.” Reports also suggest Sauk leader Black Hawk had a campsite on Oconomowoc Lake, adding a layer of historical intrigue to the area’s pre-colonial past.
8. The Cemetery That Moved Twice
Oconomowoc’s first cemetery, Henshall Place, opened in 1851 at what’s now Fowler Park. It relocated to Walnut Street before overcrowding prompted Charles Sheldon to donate land for La Belle Cemetery on Grove Street in 1864. The transfer of burials, approved by the state legislature, is a quirky chapter in local history.
9. A Pronunciation That Spots Outsiders
Locals use Oconomowoc’s tricky pronunciation—roughly “oh-CON-uh-muh-wok”—as a shibboleth to identify Wisconsin natives. Mispronounce it, and you’ll instantly out yourself as an out-of-stater. Practice before visiting to blend in with the locals!
10. Pabst Farms’ Big Ambitions
In 2003, Oconomowoc annexed Pabst Farms, once owned by the Pabst brewing family and famed for its purebred livestock. Today, it’s a growing mix of homes, shops, and businesses, transforming the city’s west side while honoring its agricultural roots.
Why Oconomowoc Keeps Surprising
Oconomowoc’s blend of natural beauty, quirky history, and cultural claims—like gangsters, presidents, and Dorothy’s yellow brick road—makes it more than just a lake town. Whether you’re strolling downtown or fishing on Lac La Belle, there’s always a story waiting to be uncovered. Visit the Oconomowoc Area Historical Society or take a self-guided walking tour to dig deeper into its past.
Ready to explore? Head to visitoconomowoc.com for spring events and insider tips on this Lake Country treasure.
