Since we needed a Wisconsin stamp on our trailer, we made a side trip to the southwestern portion of Wisconsin. We toured from Beloit, to near Madison, the Capital, and then to the cheese making areas near Monroe and Brodhead.
The first thing that we noticed upon entering the state was that they are crazy about recycling here. Here is one collection station at the Rest and Information Center at Beloit, Wi.
Years ago, the Native Americans were driven out of this area. However, Chief Black Hawk and several followers returned, ultimately to be driven out again during the Black Hawk Wars. (Click on Photo to Enlarge)
While roaming around the area, we were surprised to find an historical marker noting the existence of tobacco growing in the area that began in the 1850’s and is still a cash crop today. (Click on photo to enlarge)
We drove through the countryside enjoying the beautiful scenery.
The old stone houses.
The well used barns.
The old farms… This one in the same family since 1840.
A close-up of their sign.
Here’s a guy that just parks his old Lincolns then goes out and buys another one.
In Monroe, Wi, we went to a couple of cheese factories and also a museum that depicts the history of Wisconsin Cheese Making. Here is a little from their promotional material.
“The history of cheese making in the Monroe area. Take a stroll back in time, to the “beginning” when the new and old worlds met…to when there was a cheese factory at every rural crossroad. Hear voices from the past tell their stories of hardship and joy. It was from this depot, so artfully restored by Historic Monroe Inc, that tons of cheese were shipped by rail to eventually reach world markets. Open 9 – 4 pm daily, Mar 1 until Thanksgiving Day. Closed Dec, Jan, and Feb. Call 608-325-4636. 2108 6th Ave, Monroe, Green County.”
It was a day well spent. We’ll certainly spend a little more time in Wisconsin on our next trip to the area.