Great Escape: Blast Into the Past

With the current economic woes and a budget crisis facing Wisconsin it seems there is bad news everywhere you look.  This often makes us long to go back in time to a place where life seemed to be more simple, easier. That is why this week 's Great Escape is a blast to the past. It's your choice where you want to go. You're probably wondering how to do this. Well, its not as difficult as you think: All you have to do is use your imagination.

Patch has chosen a few historical places to help you imagine how life might have been long ago. 

Kilbourntown House

Kilbourntown House, originally named Benjamin Church House, was built in 1844 by Benjamin Church. Due to its Greek revival architecture, this house was preserved and moved to Estabrook Park.

Estabrook Parkway, Shorewood, WI 53211

Herman Uihlein Mansion  (also known as The Grant C. Beutner House)

The mansion dates back to the early 1900s and the beer barons of Schlitz Brewing Company. This wonderful mansion is filled with beautiful staircases, great living areas and breathtaking views of the lakefront. It has been completely restored from top to bottom.

5270 North Lake Drive, Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin

Lindemann/Sijan House

This was an English cottage built in 1916. The property was designated for its architectural significance. According to the Shorewood Historical Society: "An English cottage of the Arts and Crafts tradition, the house features a built-up roof which simulates thatching and a side entrance with a porte cochere."

3937 North Lake, Shorewood,Wisconsin

So, if you want to escape the complications of the modern age, go grab a friend and step back to a time where cars were a thing of the future and horses were the only available transportation.