Founded in 1903, Wisconsin Mutual Insurance Company began as Wisconsin Tornado Mutual Insurance Company, organized in Evansville, Wisconsin, with leadership operating from their own homes. In 1928, the office moved to Milton Junction with W.A. McEwan as president and George McKerrow as secretary.
In November 1946, Wisconsin Mutual Insurance Company moved its main office from Milton Junction to 2021 Atwood Avenue in Madison, as announced by Secretary D.C. Lynn. Some clerical staff remained with the company during the transition.
In 1955, continued growth led Wisconsin Mutual to relocate its main office to a new building at 1619 Monroe Street in Madison, where the company expanded its operations and strengthened its presence in the capital city.
In 1990, Wisconsin Mutual moved into its newly constructed headquarters at 8201 Excelsior Drive in Madison’s Old Sauk Business Park, reflecting decades of growth and a continued commitment to serving Wisconsin policyholders.
W. A. McEwan served as the founding president of Wisconsin Tornado Mutual, guiding the company from its start in Milton, WI. Under his leadership, the company built a foundation of trust and service, helping rural communities protect what mattered most during a time of great change.
George McKerrow led the company through the Great Depression and World War II, a period that tested the strength of mutual insurance. Based in Milton, WI, he upheld the company’s mission of protecting rural policyholders, helping Wisconsin Tornado Mutual remain a steady presence in uncertain times.
H. O. Melby led the company through a pivotal chapter, overseeing the move from Milton to Madison and establishing operations at the Atwood Avenue office. His leadership marked a period of modernization and growth, positioning the company for long-term success in a changing insurance landscape.
Donald Lynn continued the company’s growth from its Atwood Avenue office in Madison, focusing on operational efficiency and expanding policyholder services. His leadership helped strengthen the company’s presence in the region during a decade of economic and social change.
With a background rooted in Wisconsin, Theodore Bakke brought steady leadership during a time of economic shifts and industry change. From the Atwood Avenue office, he emphasized sound governance and policyholder trust, helping the company maintain its strength and reputation heading into a new era.
Dan Keyes led Wisconsin Mutual through more than four decades of growth and transformation. Under his leadership, the company relocated to its current Old Sauk Park office, expanded its reach, and deepened its support for independent agents. A champion of industry education, he helped launch the PIA Scholarship Golf Outing, leaving a lasting legacy of service and leadership.
Kellye Golden became president in 2023, bringing over two decades of insurance experience and a deep connection to Wisconsin. A UW–Madison graduate, she previously held roles at RLI, M3 Insurance, and within WMI itself. Her leadership continues to build on the company’s legacy while guiding it into a forward-thinking future.