About Us

Our Story

Durward's Glen Retreat Center is a nonprofit organization located in Wisconsin's scenic Baraboo Hills. Our Board of Directors oversees the operations of this historic property, ensuring public access to our beautiful trails and grounds while hosting retreats and special events that nurture spiritual growth.

A Legacy of Faith and Art

The story of Durward's Glen begins in 1862 when Bernard Isaac Durward, an artist who immigrated from Montrose, Scotland, purchased this enchanted 37-acre valley adjoining the Wisconsin River. Accompanied by his wife, a seamstress who specialized in making church vestments and lace, and their 6 children, Durward was a painter and naturalist. Among his notable works were portraits of Solomon Juneau (1st Mayor of Milwaukee), Byron Kilbourn (3rd Mayor of Milwaukee), and Archbishop John Henni (who built St. Francis Seminary). After painting the Archbishop, Bernard converted to Catholicism in 1851, and his deep faith shaped the spiritual character of this land. He and his family transformed the property into both an artistic retreat and a place of Catholic devotion.

Bernard's son, Charles Durward, continued his father's legacy, building the iconic Artist's Cottage and creating many of the structures that still stand today. The property features a unique blend of mid-19th century European revival styles and early 20th century rustic craftsmanship, with Gothic Revival and Italianate influences. Buildings were constructed using locally quarried stone and timber. Notable features include the Fountain Arch, a stone arch built in 1887, and 14 outdoor Stations of the Cross. In 1920, the chapel burned and was restored by the Knights of Columbus. The property has been listed on the National Register of Historical Places since November 7th, 1978. The Durward family's stewardship established the foundations of faith and natural beauty that define the Glen.

The Seminary Era (1932-2007)

In 1932, the Durwards sold the property to the Roman Catholic Church, which built a seminary. During this time, the Glen became known throughout the region as a place of prayer and spiritual formation. In 2007, the property was sold to the College of Saint Mary Magdalain.

A New Chapter (2011-Present)

In 2011, the property was sold to Our Lady of the Rosary Group, which established the Glen as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization to preserve and protect Durward's Glen for future generations. Today, with 30 overnight rooms, 34 beds, and a maximum capacity of 44 visitors, we continue the mission of demonstrating to visitors and pilgrims the full beauty of the Catholic faith while maintaining the natural splendor and historical significance of the Durward family property.

Our Environment

The 37 acre Glen property once captured on canvas remains and is preserved for you to explore. The grounds are designed as a 'Cathedral in the Pines' offering all the natural beauty of the Driftless area of central Wisconsin. You can wander the same paths that the Durward family walked over more than 100 years ago. Our woodland trails wind through the Baraboo Bluffs and showcase quiet overlooks, natural springs, many different species of trees, pines, wildflowers, and abundant wildlife and bird sightings.