As mentioned in Post #51, I didn’t book my accommodation in Iowa, but in the small town of Prairie Du Chien, Wisconsin, literally 5 minutes away across the Mississippi River. Prairie Du Chien is a spot where I hadn’t completed much research, and I was delighted with my decision to have some time to explore the town.
Prairie Du Chien is Wisconsin's second oldest city, and similar to neighbouring Marquette (aka North McGregor), it’s located just above the confluence of the Mississippi and Wisconsin Rivers. Also, similarly, the Town was discovered by Father Marquette (a French Missionary) and Louis Jolliet (a French-Canadian Fur Trader) as they explored the Mississippi River.
Soon after that, a fur trade post was established and Prairie du Chien became a depot for the American Fur Company. In particular, the centre of the fur trades was on a small island west of the town called St. Feriole Island, known as the intersection for hunters, trappers and traders between Canada and the Midwest.
Many of the original residential houses that stood on the island were removed for flood control, but the town hotel, fur trade museum, and the estate of a prominent fur trader are still present. The estate which was occupied during the 19th century includes the 1871 family mansion and various structures that were the places of work or homes for those residents who were active in the fur trade, including a laundry, stable, and bathhouse.
Today the estate is an active tourist site, and the mansion is identified as one of the finest historic house museums in the midwest. The home has been restored to how it was occupied in 1890, complete with original furnishings. The general estate provides insight into the Victorian life of the most prosperous fur-trading family.
When Karl passed through this area, thanks to the expansion of the railway, Prairie du Chien was a famous stopping place for tourists and honeymooners. Were it not for Karl’s journey, I doubt that I would have ever visited Marquette, McGregor or Prairie Du Chien. Let me tell you, Dear Reader, this little corner of Iowa/Wisconsin is beautiful and I recommend it as a stop for any tourist.