Neighbors and business partners joined us to mark the official reopening of this restored 1878 Norwegian-American landmark
Yesterday, The Goose Crown Inn marked its official grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the Stoughton Chamber of Commerce. The event drew a slate of elected officials and community leaders, reflecting the inn’s place in the continued revitalization of downtown Stoughton.
State Senator Melissa Ratcliff and State Representative Randy Udell attended the ceremony, along with Stoughton Mayor Tim Swadley and Alders Lisa Reeves and Phil Caravello. Chamber of Commerce President Sarah Ebert and Events Coordinator Clove Rewey conducted the ribbon cutting, with several downtown business partners also on hand.
This building has been part of Stoughton’s story since 1878, and we see our role as adding the next chapter rather than rewriting the ones that came before it. While we have been open and welcoming guests as the Goose Crown Inn since May, we were overwhelmed by the support of our neighbors, fellow business owners, and officials who braved the rain for our official grand opening.
About the Property
The Goose Crown Inn occupies the Naeset-Roe house at 126 E. Washington Street, a Victorian-era home built by Jens Naeset, one of Stoughton’s earliest Norwegian settlers. We acquired the property and reopened it this year following an extensive renovation that preserved the home’s original architectural details while introducing a contemporary guest experience. The inn offers four individually designed guest rooms and is located within walking distance of the Stoughton Opera House and the city’s historic downtown corridor.
We relocated from California to take on this boutique hotel project. Avid travelers ourselves, we were looking for a property that could deliver that kinds of deep-rooted, destination-based local experiences we gravitate toward in our own travel adventures. Stoughton’s Norwegian-American heritage and walkable downtown were central to how we shaped the inn’s concept and design.
A Community Effort
Several downtown Stoughton businesses participated in the opening celebration, including our breakfast partners Wildwood Café, One Community Bank, Gotta Go Plumbing, and Koala Insulation. Argo Craft Tavern generously provided a sumptuous spread of charcuterie and wines for the event, in anticipation of opening up their new food menu at their Division Street location. Local tradespeople and business owners played a significant role in bringing the renovation to completion, and their support carried into yesterday’s celebration as well.
A project like this does not happen without a town that wants it to succeed. We had that from the day we started, and yesterday made it plain.
About The Goose Crown Inn
The Goose Crown Inn is a boutique bed and breakfast in Stoughton, Wisconsin, offering four individually designed guest rooms in a restored 1878 residence. The inn is positioned as a home base for travelers exploring Stoughton’s Norwegian-American heritage, downtown business district, and regional attractions. Book your stay here>>
