[2] The limestone from which the cave was carved began forming approximately 488 million years ago, during the Ordovician Period.

Over millions of years, calcium carbonate shells from tiny marine organisms accumulated on the sea floor, forming enormous quantities of limestone.

A large crack in the surface of the rock, called the cave's "lifeline", allowed rain water to seep into the stone.

The area around the Blue Mounds, Dane County, was first settled by Europeans in 1828 by Ebenezer Brigham, a successful lead miner from Massachusetts.

Ebenezer Brigham later became a colonel and helped build and command Fort Blue Mounds during the Blackhawk War.

He died after a long life, not knowing that a beautiful cave existed beneath his Brigham Farm.

Soon after, the cave was closed to prevent damage from curious souvenir seekers who removed pieces of stalactites and stalagmites to take home.

Theatrical lighting, original design by Gilbert Vaughn Hemsley Jr.[6] has also been installed to further highlight the colors and shapes inside the cave.