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Hidden Trading Posts Of Wisconsin’s Lake Superior

Published:

by Magdaia Bernardo

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Have you ever wondered about the hidden trading posts around Wisconsin's Lake Superior? These spots hold a rich history and offer a unique glimpse into the past. Imagine walking where fur traders once bartered, surrounded by the stunning beauty of the lake. From Bayfield to Madeline Island, each location has its own story to tell. Whether you're a history buff or just love exploring new places, these trading posts provide a fascinating look into the region's heritage. Ready to step back in time and uncover the secrets of Wisconsin's Lake Superior? Let's dive into the adventure!

Hidden Trading Posts of Wisconsin's Lake Superior

Wisconsin's Lake Superior shoreline hides many secrets, including some fascinating trading posts. These spots offer a glimpse into the past, where fur traders, Native Americans, and early settlers exchanged goods and stories. Let's uncover some of these hidden gems.

1. Madeline Island

Madeline Island, the largest of the Apostle Islands, has a rich history of trade. French fur traders and Ojibwe people once bartered here, making it a bustling hub.

  • La Pointe Trading Post: This historic site offers a peek into the island's trading past. Artifacts and exhibits tell the story of early commerce.
  • Madeline Island Museum: Learn about the island's history, including its role in the fur trade, through engaging displays and knowledgeable guides.

2. Bayfield

Bayfield, a charming town on the shores of Lake Superior, was once a key trading center. Its picturesque setting and historic buildings make it a must-visit.

  • Old Rittenhouse Inn: This historic bed and breakfast was once a trading post. Today, it offers cozy accommodations and a taste of the past.
  • Bayfield Heritage Association: Explore exhibits on the town's trading history, including artifacts from the fur trade era.

3. Ashland

Ashland, known for its stunning murals and historic downtown, also played a significant role in the region's trading history.

  • Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center: This center offers exhibits on the area's natural and cultural history, including its trading past.
  • Ashland Historical Society Museum: Discover artifacts and stories from Ashland's trading days, including tools and goods used by early traders.

4. Cornucopia

Cornucopia, a small village on the shores of Lake Superior, has a rich trading history. Its scenic beauty and historic sites make it a hidden gem.

  • Cornucopia Historic Green Shed Museum: This museum showcases the village's history, including its role in the fur trade.
  • Ehlers General Store: Once a trading post, this historic store now offers a glimpse into the past with its vintage goods and charming atmosphere.

5. Superior

Superior, located at the western tip of Lake Superior, was a major trading hub. Its historic sites and museums offer a window into its trading past.

  • Fairlawn Mansion & Museum: This historic mansion offers tours that highlight Superior's trading history and the lives of early settlers.
  • Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center: While primarily a military museum, it also features exhibits on the region's trading history.

6. Washburn

Washburn, a small town with a big history, was once a bustling trading center. Its historic sites and museums tell the story of its trading past.

  • Washburn Historical Museum & Cultural Center: Explore exhibits on Washburn's trading history, including artifacts from the fur trade era.
  • Thompson's West End Park: This park offers beautiful views of Lake Superior and a glimpse into the area's trading history with its historic markers.

7. Port Wing

Port Wing, a tiny village on the shores of Lake Superior, has a rich trading history. Its scenic beauty and historic sites make it a hidden gem.

  • Port Wing Historical Society Museum: This museum showcases the village's history, including its role in the fur trade.
  • Herbster Community Club: Learn about the area's trading past through exhibits and events hosted by this community organization.

8. Iron River

Iron River, a small town with a big history, was once a bustling trading center. Its historic sites and museums tell the story of its trading past.

  • Iron River Historical Museum: Explore exhibits on Iron River's trading history, including artifacts from the fur trade era.
  • Moon Lake Park: This park offers beautiful views of Lake Superior and a glimpse into the area's trading history with its historic markers.

9. Red Cliff

Red Cliff, a small community on the shores of Lake Superior, has a rich trading history. Its scenic beauty and historic sites make it a hidden gem.

  • Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa: Learn about the area's trading past through exhibits and events hosted by this community organization.
  • Frog Bay Tribal National Park: This park offers beautiful views of Lake Superior and a glimpse into the area's trading history with its historic markers.

Hidden Gems Await

Wisconsin's Lake Superior trading posts offer a unique glimpse into the past. These hidden gems are more than just historical sites; they are windows into the lives of early traders and settlers. From the bustling Madeline Island Museum to the serene Old Bayfield County Courthouse, each location tells a story. Visiting these spots isn't just educational, it's an adventure. You can explore the rich history, enjoy the stunning landscapes, and even engage in local activities. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for a new place to explore, these trading posts have something for everyone. So next time you're in Wisconsin, take a detour to Lake Superior. Discover the hidden trading posts and experience a piece of history that has shaped the region. Hidden gems like these are waiting to be explored.