Prairie du ChienPrairie du Chien is the second-oldest settlement in the state of Wisconsin, and the oldest community on the Upper Mississippi River. It offers a wealth of historic sites and glimpses into authentic frontier life. French Canadians engaged in the fur trade settled on St. Feriole Island and each spring the Native Americans came to trade furs for goods. This “Rendezvous” is reenacted each year in June. The flourishing outpost attracted Hercules Dousman, who made a fortune in the fur trade and real estate. His son, Louis, built the famed Villa Louis mansion, a Victorian estate recently restored to its 1890s splendor. The Carriage Classic is held on its grounds. Before the Villa Louis was built, Fort Crawford stood on the Indian mound that now is the site of the mansion. Here, Dr. William Beaumont conducted his groundbreaking medical studies. After the original fort was destroyed by floods, the second Fort Crawford was built in 1829 and it was here in 1932 that the famed Sauk warrior Black Hawk surrendered, ending the Black Hawk War. Today, Prairie du Chien is a city of 6,000 and is the largest community in Crawford County. It is also the county seat. It offers numerous attractions, a variety of lodging and dining establishments, shopping, unique annual events, and unlimited recreational choices. For further information, contact the Prairie du Chien Chamber of Commerce—(608) 326-8555 |
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301 East Blackhawk Avenue
Prairie du Chien WI 53821 Website |
531 N. Marquette Road
Prairie du Chien WI 53821 Website |
37502 US Hwy 18
Prairie du Chien WI 53821 Website |
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717 S. Beaumont Rd.
Prairie du Chien WI 53821 Website |
32800 County Road K
Prairie du Chien WI 53821 Website |
100 S. Marquette Rd.
Prairie du Chien WI 53821 Website |
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132 S. Beaumont Street
Prairie du Chien WI 53821 Website |
600 E. Blackhawk Ave.
Prairie du Chien WI 53821 |
1501 East Lessard Street
Prairie du Chien WI 53821 Website |
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Jones’ Black Angus Supper Club 37640 US Highway 18Prairie du Chien WI 53821 |
121 North Michigan Street
Prairie du Chien WI 53821 Website |
1801 Cabela's Lane
Prairie du Chien WI 53821 Website |
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934B S. Marquette Road
Prairie du Chien WI 53821 Website |
Prairie du Chien Downtown Revitalization 109 W. Blackhawk AvePrairie du Chien WI 53821 Website |
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