803 Orange St
Hudson, WI 54016, USA

Herman L.Humphrey House (Robert Hobson House) - National Register of Historic Places

Architectural Statement
In 1884, Judge Humphrey "improved" his home by adding a two-story bay on the west side and a one-and-one-half story wing on the north. Decorative leaded and stained-glass transoms are located over three first story windows on the west side of the addition, which was constructed to house a library and back kitchen (D). An open porch was erected along the west side of the addition featuring fluted columns. The original south facade porch was partially removed, but is currently being restored following sympathetic design and scale principles documented in historic photographs of the nominated property, A later addition has been added to the east side of the 1884 wing. Geometric parquet flooring in the foyer and rear parlor, raised paneled doors with porcelain knobs, a winding staircase in the front entry, and a pressed metal Renaissance Revival fireplace mantel with red and black checkered tiles, are prominent interior features.

The Herman L. Humphrey House, at 803 Orange Street, was built in the Italianate style around 1860. Constructed of brick, this structure is reputed to be the first building in Hudson to be built of the material; an oddity during the surging lumber milling industry. However, no documentation has been discovered to substantiate this statement. Furthermore, the bracketed cornices and classical detailing represent the Italianate period, but alterations have reduced its original integrity. This is especially noted when compared to other existing Italianates throughout Hudson, particularly the William Dwelley house at 1002 Fourth Street, which is being nominated as Hudson’s finest Italianate example.

Historical Statement
Herman Leon Humphrey was born in Candor, Tioga County, New York on March 14, 1830. After receiving a public education and spending a few years in the mercantile trade, Humphrey yearned for a professional life. He studied law under the Ithaca New York firm of Walbridge and Finch until his admittance to the bar association in 1854. "Wisely concluding that the new western country offered a better field for a useful practitioner...he...selected Hudson (Wisconsin)... and commenced the practice of law in January, 1855."

Recognition as a superior legal professional began early in Humphrey’s career, demonstrated by his appointment to fill a vacancy in the St. Croix County District Attorney’s office, a gub senatorial appointment during the 1860 vacancy of a St. Croix County Judge, and elected to the same position in 1861. Judge Humphrey never began his elective term, which was scheduled to commence in January, 1862, as he had been elected State Senator in Fall of 1861.

At the completion of his senatorial term in 1863, Humphrey returned to Hudson, but his political life was just taking root. His single term election as Mayor of Hudson in 1865 was successively followed by two terms as Judge of the 8th Judicial District (1867 to 1877) and three terms as a United States Congressman (1876 to 1883) (F).
In 1883, Congressman Humphrey settled into his private Hudson law practice "Wisely giving opportunity to other aspiring to the honors of...office". (F) But in 1866, Humphrey was elected to the Wisconsin State Legislature, staying a single term and tiering the Judicial Committee.

Historic Significance:
Recognized as being one of Hudson’s most notable lawyer, judges, statesman and citizens, judge Herman L. Humphrey gained considerable prominence in the community of having located here in 1855. His respective positions as country and circuit judge, state senator, mayor and through his roles as an incorporator at the Toma and Lake St. Croix railroad company and Director of the Oliver Wendell Holmes Hospital. The Humphrey House at 803 Orange Street, occupied by him throughout his prestigious career (1860-1902) stands as a significant representative of his life and contributions.

Photo by R.C LaRowe