Our trip to the Wisconsin Dells was one that had some pleasant aspects, but also some unfortunate events. The most regrettable thing that we encountered was the snow which slowed down our touring and hindered us from doing as much as we wished to do. However, we did get to take part in several situations which turned out to be interesting and educational.
We spent some time in the Wisconsin Dells but could not help but look like the cold adventurers that we were. Most everything seemed to closed.
We also found a shop where they had a large collection of Norman Rockefeller paintings and other art work. We enjoyed the Rockefeller collection as we are fans of his work.
We came across a sign that told of the history of the Lost City of Newport and which is now Wisconsin Dells.
“Dawn Manor, site of the Lost City of Newport, Wisconsin Dells, 8 June 2008: “Here on the Wisconsin River, the lost village of Newport was begun in 1853 and.planned for a city of 10,000. Assuming that the Milwaukee & Lacrosse Railroad would cross the river here, over 2,000 settlers quickly came to Newport, causing a lively land boom. When the bridge and dam were ultimately located a mile upstream after an alleged secret moonlight survey, Newport was almost completely deserted in favor of Kilbourn City (today Wisconsin Dells). Only Dawn Manor, with its servant quarters, remains. Dawn Manor was completed in 1855 by Capt. Abraham Vanderpool, friend of Lincoln and a signer of the Wisconsin Constitution. The home is built of Potsdam sandstone, white mahogany, and white pine, put together with brass screws and wooden pegs. Dawn Manor houses the art collection of George Raab, one of Wisconsin’s famous artists.” Copied from the Wisconsin Markers, Marker 26
While driving around, we did see some interesting sights but we did not get a lot of information about all the gnomes that were on so many front lawns, now covered with snoe.
Most were made of wood, but some were made of metal.
We wondered why there were so many gnomes in Mount Horeb and we found a Logical explanation, see below.
Mount Horeb, Wisconsin — America’s Troll Capital Celebrates Its 150th Anniversary By Abby Slutsky — January 21, 2011
When tourists initially think of Wisconsin, their minds flitter to many items related to agriculture. Wisconsin is known for cheese, dairy and maple syrup. Those who love beer also know it is home to one of the largest breweries. Some people are also aware that outdoor sports are popular in Wisconsin. What many people do not realize is that a part of Wisconsin’s population shares their home with trolls.
Mount Horeb is not far from the western part of Madison, Wisconsin. Picture exploring a town where there is mythical lore around ordinary shops, street signs, and even parks. Mount Horeb is a town that has infused art and magical whimsy to ignite smiles and interest as tourists and locals encounter trolls throughout it.
About Mount Horeb
We found one of the most interesting sights to see was the National Mustard Museum in Middleton, Wisconsin. It contains an inventory that began in 1986 by former Assistant Attorney General of Wisconsin, Barry Levenson, after he became despondent at the failure of his favorite baseball team, the Boston Red Sox, to win the 1986 World Series. The original dozen jars has now grown to more than 5,300 from more than 60 countries. There is also some presentations which educate the public about the story of mustard. When we there, the museum was in Mount Horeb, but I think that it as now moved to Middleton.
Norwegian settlers were in the area as early as the 1830s. Despite the strong Norwegian population, the town was named by Englishman George Wright in 1861. Mr. Wright, a minister, moved to the area in 1858. He became the town treasurer and later was a member of the legislature. In 1861, he was asked to name the town and perused the Bible for inspiration. He eventually settled on the name Mount Horeb, which means Mountain of God. His enchantment with the scenic beauty of the region and its lovely mountains influenced his decision. The town’s name was not officially recorded until 1867.
As early as the 1800s, the residents of Mount Horeb, primarily Norwegians, were familiar with Scandinavian folklore and tales about trolls. Tourists can learn more about the history of Mount Horeb and its population at the Mount Horeb Area Museum at 100 South 2nd Street.
Mount Horeb has a population of approximately 8,000 people. Commerce includes shopkeepers, artists, and many other businesses. Proprietors work hard to attract visitors to the town and many visitors delight in the many attractions it offers. In 2011 Mount Horeb is celebrating its 150th birthday and locals and visitors can share the excitement as the troll capital celebrates its sesquicentennial year with a host of events.
There were many gnomes around Mount Horeb and I have shown only a few of what we saw.
The House on the Rock is a tourist attraction located between the cities of Dodgeville and Spring Green, Wisconsin. Opened in 1959, it is a complex of architecturally distinct rooms, streets, gardens, and shops designed by Alex Jordon, Jr..
I didn’t realize that we had seen so much and learned lots of information on Wisconsin.
