History

Oxbo is an isolated, unincorporated town in the heart of the Flambeau State Forest and adjacent to the Chequamegon National Forest. The Oxbo Resort was built in 1922 by Jenny and Art Naubauer. At that time, the Oxbo was more than a resort. It was the center of a bustling community. It boasted a post office, grocery store, gas station, school, and a zoo. The zoo was started by Art and Jenny's daugther, Verna, who adopted orphaned black bears and other animals native to the Northwoods. Highway 70 ran directly in front the town hall, (which is now the tavern) and across the one lane bridge. As the times changed, so did the Oxbo. Gone are the post office, zoo and school. The gas station still exists and the grocery store has been developed into the Oxbo Mall.

In the 1960's, Highway 70 was rerouted and Old Highway 70 was changed into Oxbo Drive. Now, off of the main road, the Oxbo is a quiet resort where people come to relax, fish, hunt, canoe, snowmobile, cross country ski or simply enjoy the breathtaking beauty surrounding them. No telephones, radios or televisions in the cabins to interrupt your seclusion. Messages are taken and posted on the message board at the lodge and a public telephone is available there. The one-lane bridge is part of the snowmobile, ATV and hiking trail system and is also a favorite fishing spot.