Help us restore a rare piece of Wisconsin’s history.
The Omro Fox Tower—once known as the Cole Fox Tower—is one of the last remaining structures of its kind in the state. With your support, we can preserve this iconic landmark and ensure future generations can experience this unique chapter of Wisconsin’s past.
Meet the Randy King Family,
New Owners of the Omro Fox Tower
Register of Historical Places
National Register Listing
Listed June9, 1978, the Omro Fox Tower, originally known as the Cole Watch Tower, earned its place on the National Register of Historic Places due to its unique role in Wisconsin’s fox-farming era. This seven-story steel and brick structure exemplifies the innovative agricultural practices of the early 20th century, offering a rare glimpse into the state’s fur industry heritage.
State Register Listing
Recognized by the Wisconsin Historical Society on January 1st, 1989, the Omro Fox Tower stands as a testament to the state’s rich agricultural history. Its distinctive design and purpose-built functionality reflect the ingenuity of Wisconsin’s fox-farming industry, marking it as a significant cultural and historical landmark.
History
Built in 1935 by the Cole family to support their silver fox farm, the Omro Fox Tower rose on land originally developed by the King family. It embodied the spirit of industrial progress that defined rural America in the 1930s. Today, it remains a rare and striking symbol of that transformative era in Wisconsin’s history.
Current Status
Today, the Fox Tower stands as a proud but weathered sentinel of the past. Time and storms have left their mark. Without timely restoration, some elements could be lost forever. This structure is worth saving — not just for its history, but for what it can still become. With your support, we’re committed to preserving it for future generations.
Future Plans
With your support, we envision a fully restored tower and farmhouse—honoring the original craftsmanship and the legacy it represents. Our goal is to partner with the Omro community and individual contributors like you to bring this historic gem back to life, opening it to visitors, families, and history enthusiasts for generations to come.