Dr. Fisk Holbrook Day House

The Dr. Fisk Holbrook Day House is a brick building located on West Milwaukee Avenue that displays design elements from several architectural traditions. It features a mansard roof, Gothic gables, and a three-story central tower with ornate decorative details throughout its facade.

Doctor Fisk Holbrook Day, a physician with interests in geology, hired architect James Douglas to build this residence in 1874. The construction occurred during a time when prosperous Americans were creating large homes that displayed the newest architectural ideas.

The home reflects a blend of Second Empire, Italianate, and Gothic Revival design choices that were fashionable among wealthy American families in the 1800s. These different architectural styles together show the owner's taste and desire to create something remarkable.

The property can be accessed from two directions: West Milwaukee Avenue or from Day Court, with the house set back somewhat from the main road. This dual access makes it easier to approach the building and walk around its grounds.

Specialized rooms in the house were designed to display the owner's extensive collection of fossils, which he gathered from local rock formations during his geological research. These private display spaces mixed scientific interest with everyday living in an unusual way.

Location: Wauwatosa

Inception: 1874

Architects: James Douglas

Architectural style: Italianate architecture, Second Empire style, Gothic Revival

Made from material: brick

Address: 8000 West Milwaukee Avenue

GPS coordinates: 43.05315,-88.01276

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:00