Completed in 1910, Elderwood was designed by Milwaukee architect Eugene Liebert and reflects the influence of his native German background and professional education. Since native clay was scarce at the site, Liebert chose the modern method of poured concrete covered with stucco to create an old-world effect, complete with a red tile roof. The leaded glass windows and carved wooden decorations in the house’s interior are of the German Arts and Crafts movement and Shingle Style design.

The house was originally built for Charles Solomon, a Milwaukee decorator and designer. From 1912 to 1936 it was a summer home for Gustav J.A. Trostel, operator of the Albert Trostel and Sons Company, Milwaukee’s largest leather tannery. Trostel developed the adjacent acreage into a private botanical garden and farm. Later, the Nicolet School District used the house for its American Studies program until 1978 when the program was discontinued.

The later, the house was purcashed from the School District restored to its original appearance. The flora and fauna planted by Trostel were also replenished. A garage matching the architecture of the house was completed in 1979. The house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is known locally as the “House in the Woods.”