Bohlman House demolition

The historic Bohlman House

Removal of the historic Bohlman House, an icon south of the Gundersen Boscobel Hospital and east of Gundersen's Boscobel Clinic, began on Oct. 26 and concluded today.

The home was gifted by Vilas and Florence Bohlman to Boscobel Area Healthcare in 2008 to expand local medical services. Gundersen Boscobel and the Bohlman family mutually decided to remove the home that is now dormant.

"We remain deeply appreciative of the generosity the Bohlman family has shown our organization over the years in both the initial gift and, just as importantly, in concurring with this decision. We believe it is in the best interest of everyone that the home be removed at this time," hospital Administrator Theresa Braudt said.

"It is our hope that our family's gift incites others in the community to [consider making similar donations]," said family spokesman John Bohlman. "Our parents' generosity is evident both from this gift and gifts of other property throughout their beloved community. We hope their generosity will inspire others to do the same."

There are no plans to expand the current facilities, but the property will be retained by Gundersen Boscobel Area Hospital and Clinics for future needs.

"We understand that circumstances change and appreciate GBAHC's effort in trying to preserve our childhood home," Bohlman said. "Sadly, the costs to relocate the property or renovate for short-term gain are prohibitive."

For more information about making donations of property or other gifts to support local healthcare through the Boscobel Area Hospital and Clinics Foundation, please contact Foundation Director Natalie Tollefson at (608) 375-6300 or e-mail [email protected].