Wisconsin’s riverfront city of Hudson was established in 1840, witnessing its first homes built at the mouth of Willow River. Here along the beautiful St. Croix River, today's Hudson was first christened with a fitting name, Buena Vista. Early residents not only enjoyed the economic boom from a bustling lumber business, but the town's wonderful river setting. The busy St. Croix saw a steady stream of packet boats, steam powered stern wheelers and side wheeler riverboats. Reminiscent of New York’s Hudson River, the town’s first mayor lobbied to have the name changed to Hudson.
   Today, Hudson residents still enjoy life on the St. Croix River, now protected with a Congressional decree as a National Scenic Riverway. The Octagon House, about three blocks from the river, is an unconventional mid 1800s Greek Revival home. Using an eight sided configuration, the upper stories would have provided a beautiful 360-degree view of the river and surrounding neighborhood. Built for Judge John Shaw and his wife Nancy, the Moffat-Hughes family lived in this stucco clad Victorian home for over a century. Now property of the St. Croix County Historical Society, the Octagon House maintains its authentic mid 19th century look. Complete with Victorian furnishings, the complex includes the Carriage House gift shop, garden house and a true Victorian garden. The museum complex, located on 1004 3rd Street, is open for tours and is easily accessed from I-94, just east of the Minnesota border.

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