WHAT
$100
in in Stephenson Stephenson and and Jo Jo Daviess Daviess counties counties
BUYS IN
SOUTHWEST WISCONSIN Follow the pizza trail The wonders of Polish Pottery Historic Auto Attractions And more...
Take Take in in the the colors colors of of fall fall
Welcome The Trail is a product of The Journal-Standard, a GateHouse Media newspaper, located at 27 S. State Ave., Freeport, Ill.
Publisher
Advertising Manager
Steve Trosley (815) 232-0121
Ann Young (815) 232-0162
Design
Advertising Staff
Bethany Strunk bstrunk@journalstandard.com
Linda Conder (815) 232-0150
Dutch Bamberg (815) 232-0134
Mike Cowan (815) 232-0177 Leah Dixon (815) 232-0171 Colleen Groves (815) 232-0191
Cover: Photograph courtesy of Joe Tamborello.
Welcome to the Trail
A
utumn winds are blowing. We’ve picked out some of the best northwest Illinois and southwest Wisconsin have to offer. Savor the experience of the fall wine harvest or the flavorful pizza from an out of the way shop. Experience the changing leaves on a winding country road or the excitement of a dramatic production on a community theater stage. Explore a historic mining community or a museum filled with pop culture. Browse the wares at the region’s one-of-akind shops and destinations. Within these pages, you’ll find plenty to occupy those brisk autumn days. So get out there and see what wonders you can find along the Trail. Happy traveling!
Š GateHouse Media and The Journal-Standard 2011
Calendar of Events September 2-4 WILHELM TELL FESTIVAL Wilhelm Tell play, Art in the Park. New Glarus, Wis. www.wilhelmtell.org or www. swisstown.com September 9-10 LENA LIONS 61ST ANNUAL FALL FESTIVAL Carnival rides, games, food, stage entertainment, parade, bbq. Downtown Lena, Ill. (815) 369-4611 September 18 FALL FESTIVAL Hay rides, bon ďŹ res, music, food & more! Darlington, Wis. www.darlingtonwi.org September 23-25 PUMPKIN FESTIVAL Parade, entertainment, arts and crafts booths, carnival. Warren www. warrenchamber.org September 23-25 OKTOBERFEST Live music, local food, beer tent, horsedrawn wagon rides. New Glarus, Wis. www.swisstown. com
04
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Fall 2011
September 24 AUTUMNFEST Entertainment, arts and crafts, food, kid’s activities, chili contest, pie contest, “poopapalooza� cow bingo. Brodhead, Wis. www.brodheadchamber.org September 24 GREEN COUNTY FALL NATIONALS TRACTOR & TRUCK PULL Green County Fairgrounds, Monroe Wis. www.greencountyfallnationals. com October 1 CHEESEFEST Free entertainment, hay rides, scarecrow contest, arts & crafts, food. Shullsburg, Wis. (608) 965-4579 October 1 FALL FESTIVAL An array of fall activities including wagon rides, music, hay bale maze, gunny sack races, scavenger hunt, bounce houses and more! Fulton, Ill. (815) 589-4545 www. cityoffulton.us/fulton-events
. . . d in ime w un at a t
Calendar of Events
comene olive o
October 1-2 FALL HERITAGE FESTIVAL Experience our Norwegian heritage with farmer¹s market, buggy rides, quilt show, heritage demonstrations, Sons of Norway Host Frokost, an authentic Norwegian Fall breakfast. Mt Horeb, Wis. www.trollway.com 1-88TROLLWAY October 9 STEPHENSON COUNTY BARN TOUR Spend a leisurely afternoon in the country on a self-guided tour of five unique barns in Stephenson County where you will learn the stories behind their distinctive charm. Stephenson County, Ill. (815) 235-2165 October 9 SWISS VILLAGE HARVEST FEST Civil War reenactors, artisan demonstrations including blacksmith, cheesemaking, sausage making, bratzeli cokie samples. New Glarus, Wis. www. swisshistoricalvillage.org October 8-9 GALENA COUNTRY FAIR Over 150 vendors offering arts and crafts and farmer’s market, fair food and baked goods, live entertainment and family fun. Grant Park, Galena, Ill. (815) 777-0817
have impacted Mount Carroll since its beginning (does not include any ghostly images). Downtown Mount Carroll, Ill. www.mtcarrollil.org November 6 45TH ANNUAL SWISS FEST Turner Hall, Monroe Wis. www. turnerhallmonroe.org November 12-13 MINING TOWN CHRISTMAS Old fashioned mining town Christmas. Downtown Shullsburg, Wis. (608) 965-3236 November 25-26 CHRISTKINDLMARKT Holiday marketplace, hand-crafted items, baked goods. Monroe, Wis. www. turnerhallmonroe.org November 25-27 A BIT OF YESTERYEAR CHRISTMAS — HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS Open house on Water Street, family activities, holiday tour of homes, lighted Christmas parade, fireworks. Shullsburg, Wis. (608) 965-4579 December 2-3 CHRISTMAS WALK Lighted parade and carriage rides. Special merchant sales Friday and Saturday. Brodhead, Wis. www.brodheadchamber.org
October 28 HALLOWEEN BALLOON GLOW Spectacular hot air balloons lined up along the Galena River. Galena, Ill. (815) 777-9050
December 3 ST. NICHOLAS DAY Holiday shopping specials, Swiss Church Christmas Cookie Sale. New Glarus, Wis. www. swisstown.com
October 29 UFO DAY Food stands, parade, fun runs. Belleville, Wis. www.belleville-wi.com
December 3 CHRISTMAS PARADE & FESTIVAL Lighted Christmas parade, lighting of the famous floating Christmas trees, caroling, bonfires, and a visit from Santa. Darlington Wis. www.dalrlingtonwi.org
October 29-30 HISTORIC CEMETERY TOURS A tour of some of the more colorful people who
www.journalstandard.com/the_trail 05
Award-Winning
COCKTAILS APPETIZERS & STEAKS
• Appetizers • Steaks • Seafood • Sandwiches • Salads • Desserts
Fieldstone Inn Inn
Monday thru Saturday Lounge: 4 pm - Closing Dining: 4 pm - 10 pm
815-235-8100
1121 West Empire, Freeport
2011
Table of Contents
10
Savor
Food discoveries in Stephenson and Jo Daviess Counties
on the vine: Fall is for 16 Grapes harvesting and winemaking What’s for dinner tonight? Follow 21 the pizza trail through Northwest Illinois
Experience Where the spirit dwells: Find a 24 peaceful retreat at Sinsinawa Mounds An evening at the theater: Sample 36 the rich tradition of community theater in Northwest Illinois and Southwest Wisconsin
Paddle along the Rock River: 44 Take a scenic tour on the Pride of Oregon paddle wheel steamer
30
Enjoy the ride: Take a drive down a scenic byway to view the changing leaves
Explore
50
More than cool cars: Roscoe’s Historic Auto Attractions museum houses an eclectic collection of artifacts
47
Wind in the sails: Discover a working Dutch windmill in the heart of Illinois The wonder of flight: Revisit 55 aviation history at Poplar Grove Airport trains: See what’s riding 58 Spotting the rails in Rochelle in limestone: Tour a 60 History Cornish mining settlement
Browse a stroll through Mt. Horeb: 62 Take Troll Capitol of the World and antiques: Don’t miss 74 Crafts the Pec Thing and Fall Diddley The wonders of Polish Pottery: 77 One-of-a-kind handcrafts in New Glarus
70
Find out what $100 buys in Southwest Wisconsin www.journalstandard.com/the_trail 07
Trail map 3AUK #ITY
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Shopping index
Activities Blackhawk Waterway Convention & Visitors Bureau. . . 47 Brodhead Autumn Fest . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Buck’s Toy Train Barn. . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Darlington Chamber of Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Freeport Park District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Green County Railroaders. . . . . . . . . 55 Green County Tourism . .. .. .. .. .. 40 Monroe Main Street. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Mt Horeb Sesquicentennial. . . . . . . 35 National Historic Cheesemaking Center. . . . . . . . . . . 39 New Glarus Chamber of Commerce. . . . . . . . . 69 New Glarus Oktoberfest. . . . . . . . . . . 65 Rock Falls Tourism . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 57 Rockton Chamber. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home. . . 10 Shullsburg CDC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Stephenson County Antique Engine. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 25 Swiss Historical Village . . . . . . . . . . .66
Cheese Stores Alp & Dell Cheese Store. .. .. .. .. . 39 Decatur Dairy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Edelweiss Creamery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 Maple Leaf Cheese, Juda . . . . . . . . . 39 Maple Leaf Cheese & Chocolate 67 Roelli Cheese Haus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Silver Lewis Cheese Co-Op. . . . . . . 74 Swiss Colony Outlet Center. . . . . . . 39 The Cheese Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Cuisine
The Garden Deli, Monroe . . . . . . . . . 43 Toffler’s Pub & Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Turner Hall. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . 45 Union Dairy Ice Cream Parlor. . . . . 29 Water Street Place . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .21 Wheel In. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Golf Courses Park Hills Golf Course. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Lodging AmericInn of Monroe . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Chalet Landhaus Hotel. .. .. .. .. .. 69 Country Inn & Suites of Freeport 80 Gasthaus Motel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Lena KOA Kampground & RV Park. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Ludlow Mansion. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Risken-Lee Holiday House . .. .. .. 20 Super 8, Monroe . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 38 Swiss Aire Motel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Orchards Curran’s Orchard. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 57 Edwards Apple Orchard. . . . . . . . . . . 33 Ten Eyck Orchard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Cub Hollow Antiques . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Duluth Trading. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Esther’s European Imports . . . . . . .66 Europa Gift & Lace Shop . . . . . . . . . 43 Fawn’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Frank Jewelers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Joanne’s Dress Shop. .. .. .. .. .. .. 43 House to Home Designs . .. .. .. .. 45 Luecke’s Diamond Center. . . . . . . . . 42 Luecke Antique Mall. .. .. .. .. .. .. . 42 Marilyn’s. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Nancy’s Ladies Apparel. . . . . . . . . . . 42 Olson’s Christmas House. . . . . . . . . 35 Olson’s Flowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Oregon Soap Shoppe & Green Art Etc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 Piggly Wiggly, Brodhead . .. .. .. .. 26 Pinnow Pharmacy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Risken-Lee Shops. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 Sequel’s Fine Interior Consignments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Sisters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Sugar River Shoppe. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68 The Green Door Home Decor & Gifts. . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 The Mill Furnishing & Design Store . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .31 The Red Barn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Retail Shops
Services
Angela’s Attic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Artisan Woods Gallery . .. .. .. .. .. 34 Bramble Patch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66 Brenda’s Blumenladen. .. .. .. .. .. 67 Clothes Bin. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 28 Coughlin’s Christmas Store. . . . . . . 21 Covered Bridge Gift Cottage . .. .. 26
Bank of Brodhead. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Spirits Famous Fossil Winery. . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Fisher King Winery. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 34 New Glarus Brewing Co. . . . . . . . . . . 65 New Glarus Primrose Winery. . . . . 69
9 East Coffee. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 4 Baumgartner’s. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Bistro 101. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 34 Cannova’s Pizza. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Chocolate Temptations . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Cimino’s Little Italy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Culver’s, New Glarus. .. .. .. .. .. .. 64 Dairy Queen, Freeport. . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Deininger’s Restaurant. .. .. .. .. .. 68 Fieldstone Inn. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Higher Grounds Coffee . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Mrs. Mike’s Potato Chips . . . . . . . . . 29 New Glarus Hotel Restaurant. . . . . 69 Olde Hotel Restaurant. . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Puempel’s Olde Tavern . . . . . . . . . . .64 Rafters Restaurant . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .31 Sportsman’s Bar & Grill. . . . . . . . . . .68 Spring Garden Restaurant . .. .. .. 35 www.journalstandard.com/the_trail 09
Savor | Tastes
Check out Northwest Illinois for fall foliage, scenic drives and interesting food stops
ood discoveries in Stephenson and Jo Daviess counties By Jae Hezlep
S
tephenson and Jo Daviess counties shine during the fall. People love the wonderful, colorful scenic drives with their twist and turn hills. Fall is also a good time for leaf peepers to relax and check out some interesting food spots along the way. Freeport is a good place to begin.
Come learn how Ronald Reagan got from a white house in Dixon, Illinois to The White House in Washington, DC.
RONALD REAGAN BOYHOOD HOME 816 S. Hennepin Avenue Dixon, IL 61021
Open for tours April 1 - November 15 Monday - Saturday 10:00 to 4:00 Sunday 1:00 to 4:00
Guided tours, gift shop, groups of 10 or more by appointment 10
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Fall 2011
Tastes | Savor
Cheese and a whole lot more Newly arrived on the culinary scene is The Cheese Market, a store owned by two local couples — Kevin and Barbara Davis and Corey and Jamie Engle who all work full-time at other jobs. The rationale behind the business is to bring to Illinois a cheese and meat specialty store like the very popular outlets found throughout Wisconsin. Opened in March of this year, The Cheese Market has been well-received by the community. Freeporter and regular shopper, Suzanne Trainor, says she likes the variety and customer service. When we met, she had returned to the store with cheese she purchased earlier that day to have it custom sliced. She also commented on the competitive prices and the nice selection of products. First and foremost, this place is all about cheese, familiar varieties including Swiss, Gouda, Brick, Cheddar, Limburger, Brie, Goat Havarti, Gran Queso, Calico, cheese curds and string cheese. There are also less common choices such as Cave-Aged Kaltbach Gruyere from Switzerland and Brun-uusto, Brunkow’s Baked Cheese. This mild, buttery-flavored variety, baked to form a tasty crust is more likely found in Finland and Sweden where it is known as Juustalepia which translates to bread cheese. The store started with 60 cheese varieties and is now approaching 100. Cheese is just the beginning. There are cooked meats and award-winning sausages from Ream’s old- fashioned meat market in Elburn, Ill., — cheddar Joe Tamborello brats, all beef wieners, jalapenie wienies, liverwurst, Owners of The Cheese Market (from left), Barbara Davis, Corey and Jamie Engel, ring bologna and andouille sausage. Sweet and savory stand with a selection of cheeses available at the store. Amish products from Yaegers in Cortland, Ill., also
Fine Chocolates, Desserts, and Gourmet Coffees
Chocolate and Espresso Bar
Specializing in exquisite handmade artisan chocolates 1004 17th Avenue, Monroe WI • 608.328.2462 Monday-Friday 8:30-5:30 • Saturday 8:30-4:30 Closed Sundays www.journalstandard.com/the_trail
11
Savor | Tastes abound. They range from salsas and mustards, beets and mushrooms to fruit and no-sugar-added jams and spreads. Blarneystone Popcorn is another local supplier providing many choices of flavors including the Chicago Mix of cheese and caramel coated kernels. Shoppers will also find smoked salmon and lake trout, and chocolates. The Cheese Market is also friendly and a gathering place that encourages customers to taste before they buy. As Corey puts it, “We have a lot of fun here. Everyone is happy to buy cheese and sausage.” The Cheese Market, located at 1343 S. Harlem Ave., Suite B in Freeport, is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Joe Tamborello
Various salsas line a wall inside The Cheese Market in Freeport.
In the neighborhood While you are in the neighborhood, if you are thirsty, check out Fieldstone Inn around the corner at 1121 W. Empire and try the seasonal brew on-tap from Galena Brewing Company (featured later in this article). You also owe it to yourself (and the others in your party) to cross the street and stop by Little Cubs Field at 1160 W. Empire. A nearly exact duplicate of the Cubs’ Wrigley Field, on a much smaller scale, it provides a fun venue for people of all ages to enjoy America’s past time. For more information, visit www.littlecubsfield.com.
Where everything is made fresh This year The Journal-Standard readers voted the Garden Deli Dreem Ice Cream as the No. 1 place for lunch for the second year in a row and also the best place for soup. The restaurant, also recognized for its ice cream offerings, has been a favorite food staple in the community dating back to the ’70s. Present owners Ann and Kerry Rippy purchased the Garden Deli in 1997 and in 2009 moved the restaurant to its present location in the Lincoln Mall. “One of our hallmarks,” Ann says, “(is) we do everything fresh. We try to buy local. We’re slicing all the time. All our salads — which include macaroni, lettuce, cauliflower, broccoli, pea, potato and 7-layer — are homemade from scratch with the latter being the most popular.” There are some 30 different sandwiches, available hot or cold, all with whacky names. The all-time most popular sandwich is “Winner! And All Time Chomp!” which features ham, beef, turkey, salami, pepperoni, and Swiss and provolone cheeses. Pickle slices are also popular at Garden Deli. More than 33,000 pickle slices are eaten each month. So popular are the pickled cukes that a bowl of pickles is on the menu. So are hot dogs, chicken salad, tuna fish and Kerry’s chili with a kick. There are choices for breads and rolls, too: oat, potato, rye, 7-grain, wheat, white, basil Parmesan, tomato basil and croissants. Mrs. Mike’s potato chips (another Freeport favorite), brownies, pies and CupCakery cupcakes (from nearby Cedarville) round out the carbs choices.
“One of our hallmarks (is) we do everything fresh.” — Ann Rippy
12
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Fall 2011
Stefanie Manley
Ann Rippy of Freeport serves sandwiches to the lunch crowd at the Garden Deli.
Tastes | Savor And for dessert there is soft ice cream as well as 20 flavors of hand-dipped ice cream, banana splits and Fudgeannas. Traditional toppings as well as candies can be added to create custom confections. All food items are available for dine in or carry out. There is also a little arcade that provides safe diversions for families with young children. The Garden Deli Dairy Dreem Ice Cream and Sandwich Shoppe is located at 1261 W. Galena Ave. in the Lincoln Mall. Restaurant hours are Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The phone number is (815) 235-3913 and group orders can be placed in advance.
Italian cuisine since 1921
A trip back in time Stockton Bowling Lanes is a trip back in time and a gem of a bowling alley. Eight lanes with original maple boards and bumper rails for those who need them, Stockton Bowling Lanes was opened in 1949 by John and Cora Stayner and their son, Ira and his wife, Betty. In 2006, Ira’s son, Jack and his wife, Mary, a first grade teacher in the local school who knows all the kids in the community, became the owners. Ira also works full-time at another job. Although they’re not ready to pass this family business on yet, the Stayners hope that someday their two daughters will take over. Open from Labor Day to Memorial Day, the alley has open bowling on Friday and Saturday from 6 to 11 p.m., and from 1 to 6 p.m. on Sunday. There is league bowling during the week. Costs can be figured either hourly or per game. Rental shoes are available in a child’s size 6 up to an adult size 17. Very kid and family friendly, there is no age limit for children (or for adults). Party packages are offered. But it’s not just for the sport that one should go to Stockton Bowling Lanes. Join the locals who go for the food, particularly the hand-pressed, Betty Burger, named after Jack’s mom, and an Ira Sundae, Jack’s dad’s favorite. This confection-in-a-cup features vanilla ice cream, chocolate sauce, peanuts, malted milk powder and whipped cream.
Stop by Stockton Bowling Lanes for the nostalgic atmosphere and tasty treats.
sip, savor & socialize stop in for great pasta, delicious seafood and award-winning pizza! Live Piano Music Friday & Saturday Freeport & Neenah Est. 1921
Est. 1994
Est. 2005
1101 W. Empire St. FREEPORT, IL
247 N. Main GALENA, IL
113 Wisconsin Ave. NEENAH, WI
815-233-0032
www.journalstandard.com/the_trail
13
815-777-3735
920-886-0325
Savor | Tastes
Other menu offerings include chicken strips, French fries, Bosco sticks (bread sticks filled with Mozzarella cheese) and pizza. Handdipped ice cream is available in shakes — chocolate, strawberry, vanilla, and cherry, or any combination. Ditto for malt flavors. Root Beer floats are another customer favorite. When Stockton Bowling Lanes opened there was a full soda fountain which has been updated only to meet current regulations. Booths have been added, but the stools remain and the friendly, nostalgic atmosphere makes this place a delicious and fun stop. Stockton Bowling Lanes is located at 102 S. Ward St. in downtown Stockton. For more information, call (815) 947-3616.
This microbrew’s for you In the 1800s there were nine breweries in Galena, but by the 1930s they had all closed. Now, Kathy and Warren Bell have filled that void with the opening last August of The Galena Brewery in historic downtown Galena. The theme of the brewery is that of a brewery warehouse, appropriate as the brewing, bottling and storage happens in-house. Behind the 27-foot main bar are the mash tanks where most of the brewing happens. Four fermenting tanks are in the back that can each hold one to two 350-gallon batches of beer. To learn more
14
The Trail
Fall 2011
about the process, the public is invited to take a Brew Tour, priced at a dollar per person, and held daily at 3 and 6 p.m. To begin, Warren Bell developed two recipes: a Bavarian Wheat Beer, Fevre RiverAle made in the classic Hefeweizen style, and a Barley Ale, made in the amber style. Beer offerings have expanded to include Cream Ale, a very light beer; Miner’s Treasure, an American style Amber Ale which is the most popular of their brews; Annabelle’s Pale Ale, a hoppy and bitter ale, and Uly’s Dark Oatmeal Stout. This latter brew, developed by Brew Master, Sean Carter, is a 2011 Bronze Medal Winner in the North American Beer Awards competition. Named for President Ulysses S. Grant (Uly to his friends) this full-bodied ale is a chocolate oatmeal stout. In addition to the previously mentioned brews, each month a seasonal brew is highlighted. In September, a Nut Brown Ale, developed by Assistant Brew Master, Steven Winter, will be the special offering. For October, Carter has developed an Oktoberfest Lager. It is these seasonal specials that are also available on tap at the Fieldstone Inn, in Freeport. The Galena Brewing Company is a fresh new brewpub with emphasis on “fresh.” All of their dishes are made with fresh and local ingredients and prepared in a convection oven. Nothing is grilled or deep fat fried. Many of their recipes include their brews, such as the barbeque sauce made with Fevre River Ale that is an integral part of their roasted and pulled pork loin specialty.
Beer bread (also available gluten-free) made on the premises, comes with all the entrees which range from hot smoked fish sandwiches to pressed Cubans and veggie wraps. Vinegar-based cole slaw and roasted sweet potatoes are other offerings. There is a kid’s menu, indicative of the family and kid friendly atmosphere. There is also a wide selection of Tapas items. Tapas is a Spanish word and a Mediterranean custom of serving appetizers on small plates which are meant to be shared. Apple Bacon Cheddar Crostinis, Coconut Chicken Skewers, oven roasted Bone Marrow served on toast points, and Vegetarian Spring Rolls with peanut sauce are a sampling of the available starters which all come with recommended brew pairings. Another unusual feature of this brewery and eatery is that it is a staging location for horse and carriage rides by the Galena Carriage Company which is owned by Kerri Ruch. Rides are available on Friday and Saturday evenings and on Sunday afternoons. For reservations, call (815) 2759470. The weekends also offer live music and many special events including Beer Pairing Dinners. The Galena Brewery is located at 227 N. Main St. in downtown Galena and is open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily, except on Tuesday when they are closed. For more information visit their website, galenabrewery.com, or call (815) 776-9917.
Tastes | Savor
A little French, a little German, a little bistro Fritz and Frites, voted the No. 1 restaurant in Galena by Trip Advisor, was created by Fred Grzeslo and his wife, Karyn, and opened in 2006. The couple lives on a farm outside of town and the herbs and other ingredients for their restaurant are grown organically there making it truly a farm to fork operation. In fact, there is also a small herb garden in the backyard behind the building of the restaurant for last-minute seasonings. According to Fred, a.k.a. Fritz, 99 percent of their menu items are made in-house. Open continuously for lunch through dinner, Fritz and Frites offers two menus, but the dinner offerings are also available for lunch. Appetizers, soups, salads, mussels and a host of French and German classic dishes are featured. Pate Maison, a port-scented blend of chicken and local duck liver pate served with pistachios and traditional garnishes is one appetizer choice. Escargots de Bourgogne; Charcuterie Plate, a tasting of dry cured sausages served on a slice of goose liver pate; Baked Brie and Calvados; and Soft Pretzels are others. There are four choices of mussel preparations, available in full and half orders. Onion Soup Au Gratin and a soup of the day along with six salad variations are examples of some of the lighter fare. The most popular dish at this convivial bistro is the Wiener Schnitzel, a breaded veal cutlet that can be served with or without a fried egg. There’s also a breaded pork cutlet known as Schweinschnitzel and a host of other German classics including Sauerbraten, beef marinated in a sweet and sour sauce; and a Choucroute Garni, the Chef’s selection of sausages and smoked meat with potatoes and sauerkraut, is an example of the bistro smoked pork chop with a cider glaze. These entrees are all served specialties available at Fritz and Frites in Galena. with sauerkraut or red cabbage and spaetzle. On the French side, Poulet Roti & Frites, a garlic roasted half chicken with pomme frites, potatoes cut very thin and fried crispy; Tilapia Provencale; and Steak Frites, which comes with a 12-ounce Rib Eye or a Hanger Steak. This is a popular French cut, but just recently available here. It is also called a Butcher’s Steak, as it is a very small (only about two pounds per animal) tender portion of beef which was often taken home by the butcher for his family, rather than being sold. As you might expect, there are Haricot Vert, green beans grown in France, and crusty French bread baked in house. ProďŹ teroles, cream puffs ďŹ lled with their homemade ice cream and topped with sauce made from French chocolate is one of the dessert offerings. Prunes Al-Armagnac is another. To make this dish, prunes are simmered in the French liqueur and served with cinnamon ice cream. French wines and some German beers are available by the bottle and by the glass as are other non-alcoholic beverages. Some of the hallmarks of Fritz and Frites are their knowledgeable wait staff; intimate, warm ambiance; and affordable prices. All entrees are
priced between $15.95 and $19.95. For many regular customers, this charming restaurant is a must dining experience whenever they visit Galena. Fritz and Frites is located at 317 N. Main St. in downtown Galena, on the right side of the street, across from City Hall. It is open continuously from 11:30 a.m. through dinner, Tuesday FRITZANDFRITES.COM through Sunday and Fritz and Frites offers the best of German closed on Monday. For and French cuisine. The downtown Galena reservations or more information call (815) restaurant is truly a farm to fork operation,
with 99 percent of their menu items made 777-2004, visit www. ! " #$ in-house. fritzandfrites.com, or check them out on Facebook. ď ˛
www.journalstandard.com/the_trail
15
Autumn
Savor | Fall wines
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Massbach Ridge Winery
Fall is for harvesting and winemaking By Pat schneiderman
M
uch of the summer months, winemakers watch carefully over their future wine crops, but perhaps to the consumer’s surprise, ‘watching’ their crops does not have anything to do with lawn chairs and shade. In fact, in talking with Area vineyard area winemakers, the summer encompasses a plethora of tasks. Famous Fossil Growing grapes for production Vineyard & Winery is not an easy task. There is a lot Wine can be purchased by of new terminology to learn and the glass or by the bottle. ‘rules’ for applying them as well. Guests are welcome to walk For example, a spur in the grape among the grapevines and world is where the fruit will come watch winemaking from the from and in early summer, these observation window in the fruit clusters are pruned to allow tasting room. Twelve different only a certain number of spurs, thus intensifying the flavor of each wines are made throughout the year. New wines are listed cluster and eliminating the risk on the website. of stressing the grape vine by over m 395 W. Cedarville Rd cropping. The spurs mature into Freeport, IL 61032 shoots. The shoots are located on (815) 563-4665 the cordons, which are the main famousfossilwinery.com branches off the trunk. In the summertime, the shoots grow in length, and are either positioned upward or downward, depending on the grape variety and the trellis system that is used.
Posing a grape threat
Insects, pests and diseases are another concern for winemakers and they continually address issues like this all summer long. Many growers are now spraying for the Japanese beetle as well as watching
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The Trail
Fall 2011
Fall wine | Savor for any fruit predators that may decide to take up residency in the vineyard. In mid summer the winemaker is addressing canopy management and/or leaf pulling. The canopy management is the thinning and Area vineyard positioning of leaves, stems and fruit clusters during the summer. Massbach Ridge Winery The process is labor intensive as it Massbach has more than 18 is done by hand, one row at a time. acres of grapevines, allowSome of the leaves are removed in ing them to produce wine order to promote even ripening primarily from Jo Daviess of the grape cluster. Adequate County grapes. Guests can sunshine needs to get to the sample wine, stroll through clusters but just the right amount the vineyard or enjoy a glass of leaves must be left to prevent of wine on the wine patio. the grapes from being scorched by Their wine selections and the sun. upcoming events are listed The winemaker is also on their website. constantly removing any excessive m 8837 Massbach Rd. shoots that emerge from the trunk Elizabeth, IL 61028 base in order to retain the best (815) 291-6700 possible fruit cluster growth and massbachridge.com quality. Approximately one to two weeks before harvest, the vines are covered with netting to prevent birds from pecking at and eating the grapes. According to Pam Rosmann from Famous Fossil Vineyard & Winery, entire vineyards can be cleaned out overnight if the vines are not netted or otherwise protected. Fungus is another concern for winegrowers and each vineyard is treated separately. Grape vines infected with powdery mildew display white powder-like splotches on leaves, stems and grapes.
Look What’s Incoming grapes are crushed and destemmed.
Famous Fossil
Brewing
At Freeport’s Finest Coffeehouse!
Steps in the winemaking process
BREAKFAST BREAK? Try one of our Pastries or Scones
Crushing and Destemming The grapes are delivered
Gourmet Quiche • Soups & Sandwiches for LUNCH
to the winery where the grape clusters are separated from their stems. This is done by a machine called a crusher/ destemmer.
We’re more than just great coffee!
Press To get juice, the grapes are pressed. White grapes
are pressed immediately, leaving the skins behind for composting. Red grapes are left on their skins which impart tannins, color and flavor to the wine. After pressing, the juice is ready for fermentation.
Check out our extensive menu of specialty drinks!
Fermentation A yeast is selected and added to the
juice and fermentation begins. The yeast consume the natural sugars which creates carbon dioxide and alcohol as byproducts.
Aging Wines require settling and aging to develop
complex flavors and to mellow the wine. Some white wines and roses are ready within 8-10 weeks after harvest. Red wines are aged for months, even years, before bottling. Wines can be aged in steel tanks or in oak barrels which add aromas and flavors to the wine.
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1709 S. West Ave., Freeport 815-297-9441
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Convenient Drive-Up Window! WIRELESS INTERNET!
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17
Savor | Fall wine
The growing season for grapevines Early Spring
Dormant pruning is done before the fruiting buds emerge (called “bud break”). Old wood is removed, the cordon or fruiting cane is shaped and each fruiting spur is pruned to 3 to 4 buds. If the cordon is damaged or diseased, it is replaced with a new cane.
either downward or upward, depending on the grape variety and the trellising system used. The vineyard is continually scouted for insect pests and diseases.
Mid-summer
Late Spring
The buds begin to emerge and are vulnerable to late frosts. If the buds receive a heavy frost, much or all of the crop will be lost.
Leaf pulling or the removal of some of the vine’s leaves allows the grape clusters to receive adequate sunshine while still protecting the grapes from being scorched by the sun. If the grapes are too heavily shaded, uneven ripening of the grape cluster occurs.
Early Summer
Late summer
Only a certain number of grape clusters are allowed to ripen on each fruiting spur so excess clusters are removed. This intensifies the flavors of each cluster and eliminates the risk of stressing the grape vine by overcropping. If you are visiting a vineyard, please do not pick any of these precious grape clusters! The spurs are now called shoots as they have grown in length. The shoots are positioned
The grapes begin to ripen quickly and turn color, concentrating the natural sugars. During this time the grape vines are not disturbed.
1-2 weeks before harvest
The vines are covered with nets to prevent flocks of birds from pecking at and eating the grapes. Entire vineyards can be picked clean literally overnight if the vines are not netted or otherwise protected.
Late August through September Each day the grapes are tasted and tested for the brix (sugar level), pH and total acidity. Harvest occurs when they are at their optimum for winemaking. The grapes are picked in the cool of the early morning and kept cool until they reach the winery. Keeping the grapes cool (below 60 degrees) prevents harmful bacteria from developing.
Grape quality will suffer when leaves are unable to perform proper photosynthesis. A well-managed canopy and regular sulfur spraying will prevent most powdery mildew occurrences.
The harvest
Finally, in late August through September grapes are tested daily for the brix — which represents the sugar level in them, and this is critical. The reading varies according to the type of wine. Equally important to watch is the pH level which represents the acidity of the grape. PH is a fundamental element of the winemaking industry and strongly influences wine properties such as color, oxidation, biological and chemical stability. When the grapes are at their optimum for winemaking, it is time for harvesting them. Grapes are picked in the coolest time or early morning and are kept cool (below 60 degrees) to prevent harmful bacteria from developing. After the grapes are brought into the winery, a machine known as a crusher/destemmer destems the grape clusters. Next, the grapes
18
The Trail
Fall 2011
Vines are covered with nets to keep birds from eating the grapes.
Wheel In
Shullsburg, Wisconsin
...a bit of yesteryear!
Cheesefest • October 1, 9am-4pm Historic Water Street Free Live Stage Entertainment • Chicago Favorite Ernie Hendrickson Local Favorite The Wundos • Shullsburg Fire Dept. Breakfast Cemetery Walk • Cheese Curd Eating Contest • Hayrides Arts & Crafts Market • Library Book Sale • Scarecrow Contest Food & Refreshments • Raffle • Greet Family & Friends
Area’s Best Broasted Chicken • Prime Rib Every Saturday Daily Lunch & Dinner Specials Pasty Every Wednesday • Fresh Homemade Pies
Join your family & friends for a great day in the country! Enjoy the fall colors as you travel to Shullsburg for our great event!
Opens Daily at 6 am
Visit our
TikiLounge
“A Bit of Yesteryear” Christmas Home for the Holidays • November 25-27
• Live Music Every Weekend
• Full Service Bar & Banquet Hall Opens Wed-Fri at 4 pm, Sat-Sun at Noon
344 Hwy 11W, Shullsburg WI • 608.965.4455
Featuring: Dunbarton Blue
TM
A handcrafted artisan cheddar blue cheese. 100% natural with no artificial hormones or ingredients. Shelf cured.
Visit our artisan cheese factory and our store to sample from a wide variety of delicious, Wisconsin made cheeses. Order by phone at (608)965-3779 or onlinewww.roellicheese.com Just a few miles east of Shullsburg, corner of Hwy. 11 & 23 A family tradition of making handcrafted specialty cheeses for nearly 100 years! Open 8:00 am - 5:30 pm Daily
21st Annual Christmas Open House - Water Street Shops & Restaurants
Saturday, November 26 Events • Holiday Tour of Homes (Check website for details) • Pasty Luncheon, 11 am-1 pm Centenary United Methodist Church • Making Memories Family-Friendly Events, 1-3 pm Townsend Community Center
• Limited Edition Shullsburg Red Wing Pottery Cream Pitcher • Lighted Christmas Parade, 7:30 pm
www.shullsburgwisconsin.org • 608.965.4579 Sponsored by the Shullsburg Community Development Corporation
Savor | Fall wine are pressed to get the juice. White grapes are pressed immediately leaving the skins behind for composting. Red grapes, on the other hand, have the skins left on as they impart tannins, color and flavor to the wine. After this is all done, the juice is ready for fermentation. The winemaker then selects the yeast and adds it to the juice, Area vineyard thus fermentation begins. Yeasts consume the natural sugars, which Galena Cellars create carbon dioxide and alcohol Vineyard & Winery as byproducts. Acres of rolling farmland host Wines require time for settling 22 different specialty grapes, and aging to develop complex 60,000 gallons of wine per flavors and to mellow the wine. year, 40 wine varieties and Some white wines and roses are three tasting rooms. Vineready within 8 to 10 weeks after yard tours are available daily harvest. However red wines are aged for months, even years, before through Oct. 31 and Friday to Sunday in the month of bottling. Either wood barrels or steel tanks store the wine for aging November. Visit their website where aroma and flavor develop in for more information. m 4746 N. Ford Rd. the wine. Galena, IL 61036 Now the wine is ready for you (815) 777-3235 to shop for that perfect bottle of galenacellars.com wine. As you enjoy your next glass of wine with someone, stop for a moment to think of all the effort and love — yes love — which the winemakers have put into their product. r
RIGHT: Ken Rosmann harvests at Famous Fossil Vineyard. BELOW: Young shoots on the vine.
photos by Pam Rosmann
• Unique clothing boutique - women’s apparel, scarves and handbags • Excellent selection of gifts for the Holidays • Scented candles, seasonal home decor • Shop the oldest structure in Shullsburg Built in 1842! www.risken-leeholidayhouse.com
608-965-3088 Open Tuesday-Sunday 10-5 20
The Trail
Fall 2011
Special thanks to Pam Rosmann, Famous Fossil Vineyard & Winery and Rob Steger, Galena Cellars for the expertise and assistance in sharing their knowledge and love of winemaking with us.
Pizza | Savor
What’s for dinner tonight?
“You better cut the pizza in four pieces because I’m not hungry enough to eat six!” — Yogi Berra
Following the pizza trail through Northwest Illinois
By Pat Schneiderman
a
Pub & Eatery
608-965-4618 Tue-Fri 10-5, Sat-Sun 11-5 135 W. Water Street Shullsburg, WI 53586 www.coughlinshops.com www.shullsburgwisconsin.com
Best Burgers and Reubens East of the Mississippi!!! Site of the 1925 Bank Robbery
Cozy • Delicious • Friendly 202 W. Water Street, Shullsburg, Wisconsin Pub & Eatery: 608.965.3228 Lodging: 608.482.3286
Join us on Facebook: waterstreetpub shullsburg Hours: Wed-Thu 11-8 pm; Fri-Sat 11-9 pm; Sun 11-3 pm Dine-in or carry-out www.journalstandard.com/the_trail
21
Savor | Pizza
P
robably on any given night, either your family or someone you know is enjoying some pizza for dinner. Introduced in the 16th century in Italy but not until the early 1900s in the United States, pizza seems to be one of the American favorites today. What follows here is just a small offering of some of the area pizzerias that have been recommended to us.
A Freeport tradition
Big taste in Orangeville
Starting out in Freeport, Cannova’s is well known in the area for serving great Italian food in general but they have perfected their pizza. Their Chicken Tuscany pizza is a prizewinning combination and took second place in the nation in a recent year’s competition in Las Vegas. Additionally, they have a New York style pizza that comes highly recommended as a specialty of the house. The establishment is a family business that originally started in 1921, when they developed their own pizza sauce and dough. The restaurant has charm and hospitality and is a destination spot for the community. They are open 6 days a week, closed Monday, and are located at 1101 W. Empire in Freeport.
An unusually small town of Orangeville has it’s own pizza history. Formerly known as Asa’s, now known as Mau’s Haus, this unique spot offers both a Polish pizza and an Irish pizza where the main ingredient is cabbage. The Polish version is made with sausage and the Irish version has corned beef, but both selections have lots of cheese, onion and cabbage. There is no traditional red sauce of course and the crust is deep. Be careful with this one — your eyes may be bigger than your stomach and you may be taking some of this one home with you. Also, these two specialties require a full hour to make so either call ahead or be patient because as they claim “It’s worth the wait!” They are open seven days a week and are located in downtown Orangeville. Pat Schneiderman
The cabbage pizza at Mau’s Haus is huge, but tasty.
Wisconsin Illinois
Orangeville
Galena
U. S. Ro u
te
Route 26
Lena U.S. Route 20
20
Elizabeth
Freeport
Route 26
22
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Fall 2011
Pizza | Savor
Fresh made dough Over just a few miles is the village of Lena where Mamalena’s Family Restaurant & Pizzeria is located. Under the new ownership of Kim & Tim Rogers, they pride themselves in their freshly home made dough and sauce. The Mamalena’s special is a favorite with pepperoni, Italian sausage, green peppers, onions and mushrooms. From their freshly made dough, they feel their nitch includes stuffed cheese mamalenasfood.com sticks – stuffed with mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, sausage and Canadian bacon. They are currently working to renew their menu, which will include breakfast pizza in the near future. Mamalena’s is open 7 days a week and is located at 411 North Freedom Street in Lena.
Home of ‘the Zzaaa’
welcome inn
Continuing further west on Route 20 is another small town with another great spot for pizza — The Welcome Inn in Elizabeth. With 15 years of restaurant experience from New York to the Midwest, Chef Al Limani has decided the small community is the place for his family to live. His special pizza recipe is so special, it is simply known as ‘the Zzaaa’ and many in town are known to have their weekly dose of the ‘Zzaaa.’ You must visit here to taste the specialty pizza or to enjoy some of the other American and European cuisine offered. They are open Tuesday thru Sunday and are located at the corner in downtown Elizabeth.
More than 50 varieties
procentos.com
If you are still sampling on your way west, be sure to try Procentos Pizzeria in Galena. Owner Jack Edens has been in the restaurant business for 30 years and making pizza specialties since the 1980’s. Jack has perfected his famous double-decker pizza with homemade crust and his own sauce. The double-decker is actually two thin layers of pizza on top of each other and completed with hand rolled crust on the top and bottom. Again, this pizza is very filling so be sure you have an appetite — or carryout is in your future. There are over 50 varieties of pizza offered in a friendly atmosphere of wonderful food and a continuously smiling owner. They are open 6 days a week, closed Tuesday, and are located at 105 Franklin Street in Galena.
History and charm Another spot ‘loaded’ with history and charm in Galena is Benjamin’s. Owner’s Mary & Larry Blankenbaker have remodeled the two buildings that were built in the 1850’s and house their current business. Although they also have a full menu to choose from, it is their ‘loaded pizza’ that has people talking. With numerous toppings to choose from, this pizza is chocked full of good things to eat. According to the owners, Benjamin’s is famous for Good Food…Good Drink…Good Times. They are open seven days a week and are located at 103 N. Main St. in Galena.
America has embraced the pizzeria and there are many more establishments that serve pizza in the area, so why not get out there and try some of them. I’ll bet I know what you’re going to have for dinner tonight! Yum! r
FAR LEFT: Precentos Pizzaria in Galena. TOP: Benjamin’s in Galena. LEFT: The Welcome Inn in Elizabeth.
www.journalstandard.com/the_trail 23
Experience | Peace
L I T T L E I TA LY
Traditional Italian American Flavor! SERVING NORTHWEST ILLINOIS SINCE 1978
Daily Lunch & Dinner Specials Available! Full Menu
serving delicious Salads, Appetizers, Pastas, Dinners, Sandwiches, Pizza!
Full Service
Bar Including
Where the spirit dwells
our extensive
Wine List
HOME OF THE
HURRICANE
BANQUET FACILITY & CATERING AVAILABLE!
Stefanie Manley
Academy Apartments on the Sinsinawa Mound Complex.
Finding a peaceful retreat at Sinsinawa Mound By Jae Hezlep
T CIMINO’S LITTLE ITALY
Located on South Street in Freeport, IL
421 N. Challenge 815-235-8700 MAMA CIMINO’S
Located on Restaurant Row in Dixon, IL
114 N. Peoria Ave 815-288-4448
TWO LOCATIONS IN FREEPORT & DIXON
he original inhabitants of Sinsinawa Mound were Native Americans who called the place Manitoumie meaning “Land where the spirit dwells.” In 1832 during the Black Hawk War, George Wallace Jones built a stone fort here for protection. In 1844, Father Samuel Mazzuchelli, OP bought the property, and in 1846 laid the cornerstone of the stone building that was to become Sinsinawa Mound College. In 1847 he founded the Sinsinawa Dominican Sisters. Now, after nearly 165 years, some 500 sisters and a growing number of Associates remain dedicated to the same objective as their founder: to promote and support justice, tolerance, education, culture, love for all people and care for the land. Together, Sinsinawa Dominicans minister to the sick, the poor and the oppressed throughout the United States, the Caribbean and Latin America. Sinsinawa Mound, nestled on some 450 acres in rural Grant County, Wis., is their home and you are invited to visit.
24
The Trail
Fall 2011
Peace | Experience
Stefanie Manley
The limestone altar of the Queen of the Holy Rosary Chapel at Sinsinawa Mound Center. The chapel also features colored glass windows depicting biblical scenes, mahogany pews and marble floors. It is used by the Sinsinawa Dominicans for all services and is open to the public for Mass on Sundays.
For several years, my friends, Jack and Shirley O’Connor of Freeport, have been regular visitors to Sinsinawa and have told me of the acres of beautiful wooded grounds, the inspiring Chapel and the hospitality of the Sisters. Oh, and did I mention, the home-baked bread? Recently one Sunday I went with them to see the place for myself. Shirley and Jack have long-time ties to the Dominican Sisters, dating back to when their children attended St. Thomas Grade School here in Freeport. That’s how they got to know Sister Alessandra Kubasta OP, who was the Principal at St. Thomas for six years in the early 70s, as well as some other Sisters who also served in Freeport, but are now deceased. Actually Jack’s ties to Sinsinawa date back even further than that, as his mother was enrolled at St. Clara Academy at Sinsinawa as a high — Sheila Helm, Director of school student for a time. outreach, Sinsinawa Mound
“Visitors to Sinsinawa Mounds are struck with the feeling of peacefulness all the time.”
Sister Alessandra Because of the O’Connors’ personal connection, I got to meet Sister Alessandra and we enjoyed a delicious lunch in the Sisters’ Dining Room which is also where guests attending retreats, overnight programs and other special events take their meals. Sister Alessandra, now age 90 and a native of Oshkosh, Wis., is celebrating her Diamond Jubilee this year, having come to Sinsinawa to become a Sister along with 50 other postulants. During her active years outside the Mound, she spent time as an educator in Chicago, Rockford and Freeport. In 1980, she was asked to return to Wisconsin and take on the responsibilities of Postmaster at the Sinsinawa U.S. Post Office which was also designated as a Philatelic Center. She says she thinks she got that job because of her interest in stamp collecting.
The Stephenson County Antique Engine Club, Inc. 1/2 Mile South of the Stephenson County Fairgrounds
WALNUT & LAMM ROADS • FREEPORT, ILLINOIS SEPTEMBER 5 – Labor Day – Museum and Train open OCTOBER 8 & 9 – Homemade soups at the Museum and Train open OCTOBER 8, 15 & 22 – TRAIN OF TERROR - 6pm-9pm – ALL rides $7.00
OCTOBER 22 & 23 – Fall Harvest Demonstrations (weather permitting) Train and Museum open with brats, sauerkraut, hot dogs and chili served at the Museum NOVEMBER 5 Fall Pancake Supper and Bake Sale 3:30pm-7pm at Silvercreek Museum – NO train
DECEMBER 2 – Christmas Cookie & Holiday Treats 3pm- 7pm at Silvercreek Museum – NO train DECEMBER 3 – Christmas Cookie & Holiday Treats 10am-3pm(or until sold out)at Silvercreek Museum – NO train
thefreeportshow.com For more information call (815) 235-7329 or (815)235-2198 The Stephenson County Antique Engine Club is a not for profit, educational organization. Normal hours of operation for the Museum and Train are 11am to 4pm with the Train leaving the depot on the hour. Admission to the Museum is $3.00 for adults and children under 12 yrs are free. Train tickets are $6.00 for adults and $3.00 for children under 12 yrs, cab rides are $10.00 per person per ride.
www.journalstandard.com/the_trail 25
Come to the
Orchard! Autumn Fest 2011 revive. renew. live. breathe. do.
OVER 50 APPLE VARIETIES!!!
Saturday, September 24
New,Traditional and Antique
Honeycrisp Apples available after Labor Day!
Enjoy the small town hospitality of Brodhead, WI, and its annual Autumn Fest celebration. Crafts, food stands, beer tent and entertainment will be available for you to experience!
9am-3pm
Vote For Your Favorite Scarecrow Inflatable Jumper Pumpkin Bowling and Other Children's Games
Open daily into November
TEN EYCK ORCHARD Our Family Farm Since 1839
Hwy 11 & 81, Brodhead, WI • 608.897.4014
Farmers/Craft Market
Children's Activity Table/ Coloring Contest Pumpkin Decorating & Carving Contest for Adults & Children 10am-12pm Trick or Treating at participating businesses 10am-3pm
Food Stands
11am-3pm
Chili Contest public participation voting Beer Tent Hayrides Through Brodhead Stateline Playboys
classic rock • classic country • polkas
Noon
Costume Parade
Starting in the Square at the gazebo Receive a free pumpkin afterwards
Come Home for the
HOLIDAYS December 2 & 3
Friday, 5 pm Lighted Parade & Carriage Rides
Saturday, starting 9 am Christmas Walk Specials with downtown retailers
For more information, contact Deb at 608.897.2121
www.brodheadchamber.org
Bank of Brodhead
806 E. Exchange St • 608.897.2121 www.bankofbrodhead.com Member FDIC
1604 1st Center Ave • 608-897-2105
Experience | Peace Growing up, Sister Alessandra spent time working in the family greenhouse alongside her Dad, who was known as the Pansy King. She loves being outdoors and for many years tended a garden at Sinsinawa which she had to relinquish recently for health reasons. Rhubarb, beets, zucchini, tomatoes, cucumbers, potatoes, onions, apples, grapes, pepper, and sweet corn are all part of the property’s annual harvest. Flowers are grown here, too.
The chapel
Personal reflection
Whether talking with a Sister Spend a day at the Mound, or touring the facility, one thing “a place where the Spirit resonates — the feeling of peace dwells.” The site offers and tranquility. In fact, it was solitude, a room of your overwhelming when we entered own, good food, and space the building — Sunday mass in in which to pray, walk, think the chapel nearby was still going and relax. $20 per day. on and the choir was singing. Harmonic voices and organ music Private retreats filled the air and lifted the spirit. Located just inside the main For those who wish to spend entrance, the Queen of the time alone to pray, reflect, Holy Rosary Chapel provides think, and write. Spend a visitors with an inspiring setting couple of days or arrange a in which to pray, meditate or longer stay. $55 per day. simply sit. Circular in shape, the Chapel features stained glass windows designed by Sister Teresita Kelly, OP, a classmate of Sister Alessandra’s, now deceased. They tell the Redemption Story in a brilliant mosaic of biblical scenes. The Sun-symbol is used as a core for the three divisions corresponding to the core mysteries of the rosary. The Sun as Joy – Incarnation; the Sun as Sorrow – Redemption; and the Sun as Glory – Pentecost Eternal.
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“What A Girl Wants”
Fall Fashions Arriving Weekly 11 E. Stephenson, Freeport, IL • 815-235-1168 148 N. Main, Elizabeth, IL • 815-858-3714 The Trail
The chapel is open daily to visitors, and the public is welcome to attend Mass with the Sisters on Sundays at 10:30 a.m. It is also used as a place for special programs and performances including the 2011 Summer Organ Concert Series (using the recently refurbished organ, a Casavant Opus 2847) performed by guest organists from Germany, Iowa, Illinois and North Carolina. The concerts are free and held on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. through Sept. 7. There are also several ways for people of all ages to participate in the Music Ministry, both as a member of the audience and as a participant in various vocal and instrumental groups. Other upcoming events are Gourd Art, A Circle of Drums, and the 21st Annual Quilt Show, Oct. 5 through Nov. 30.
Fair trade and bread to die for
THE
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Stefanie Manley
Sisters’ Cemetery on the Sinsinawa Mound Complex.
Fall 2011
Just down the hall from the Chapel is the Book and Gift baked Gallery. Available here are goods are internationally handcrafted Fair sold to friends and guests Trade items including stylish every year. Each purchase women’s clothes, greeting cards, helps support the Sinsinawa jewelry, home and outdoor Dominican Sisters as they accessories such as bird houses, continue their mission of fountains and wind chimes, as preaching and teaching the well as sacred art, Christmas Gospel. ornaments and other gifts. Stop by, too, at the adjacent Art Gallery where currently the Annual Heritage Exhibit is on display. Also for sale are baked goods from the Sinsinawa Bakery, home of the Sinsinawa Dominicans’ famous cinnamon bread and caramel rolls, which are available to visitors, along with other breads, pies and other sweets. In addition, the home-made products can be purchased on-line and shipped throughout the country. Close to 70,000 baked items are sold to friends and guests every year and these purchases help to support the mission of the Sisters. A new addition to the bakery line is Sin-A-Mound, described as a onepound cinnamon roll to die for. Check the web site and the Center for specific availability and ordering information. Other Buildings on the property are The Academy Senior Apartments offering one and two bedroom independent living senior apartments for people 55 years and older; and a facility for retired Sisters who need health care. There are also two elevencircuit labyrinths, — an indoor one, measuring 36 feet in diameter and made of canvas, and an outdoor one, measuring 60 feet in diameter and constructed of limestone brick. A Labyrinth is a spiritual tool for prayer and meditation found as early as 200 B.C. Its history includes use in Crete, Tibet, Greece, Celtic spirituality, early European art and in the Christian tradition. The famous “home” of the twelve circuit labyrinth is the Chartres Cathedral
70,000
Peace | Experience in France. People interested in walking the indoor labyrinth should call the Center ahead to assure availability. Specific labyrinth workshops are held from time to time.
About Father Mazzuchelli On the lower level of the main building are two self-guided exhibits: one is “Telling Our Story” and the other is The Mazzuchelli “Tracing A Journey”, which outlines the life of Father Samuel Mazzuchelli beginning in Milan, Italy; his journey into the American Frontier; and his work among the Native Americans, settlers, and miners. Additionally, the exhibit examines his accomplishments as a religious leader, educator and builder throughout the Mississippi Valley. It concludes with a look at the legacy the Dominican priest left to people in the tri-state area and throughout the world. A brochure, available at the end of the exhibit, maps out the places in the immediate area where Father Mazzuchelli ministered and outlines his architectural and civic contributions. For example, in Galena, St. Michael Church is listed along with the Galena Courthouse and St. Rose Academy. In Wisconsin, the towns of Cuba City, Green Bay, New Diggins, Potosi, Prairie du Chien and Shullsburg are featured along with Benton where he ended his work on earth as pastor of St. Patrick Church and is buried in the Church cemetery. In 1864, he died of pneumonia, having contracted the illness while visiting the
sick on a bitterly cold winter morning. In 1993, Pope John Paul II declared Father Mazzuchelli Venerable, meaning he exemplified heroic virtues during his lifetime and was a servant of God, thus beginning the process of someday possibly recognizing Father Samuel as a saint in the Roman Catholic Church. In 2004, the next step to sainthood called “Beatification” included the appointment of Sister Mary Paynter, OP as vice-postulator for the Cause of Beatification. In 2006, the Roman Postulator officially requested that the Bishop of Madison, Wis., open a diocesan process to investigate the presumed miracle needed for the second “step toward sainthood. In 2007, the Madison Diocesan Tribunal held its opening session and the concluding session was held at Sinsinawa in August of 2008. All the documentation was then sent to Rome, to the Congregation for the Causes of Saints for further study. The process toward Beatification continues in Rome and will probably take several years to reach a conclusion. According to Sister Mary Paynter, OP, “The long process is careful and exacting, and each step takes time, so we must continue to pray for Father Samuel’s beatification and to study and emulate his life of generous “prompt and happy” service, an example that speaks to each of us today.” r More information is available on their Web site at www.sinsinawa.org or by calling (608) 748-4411. The address is 585 County Road Z, Sinsinawa, WI 53824.
Treat yourself to
Father Mazzuchelli Father Samuel Mazzuchelli,OP, founder of the Sinsinawa Dominican Order, is being considered by the Roman Catholic Church for Sainthood. During his lifetime he designed and built more than 20 churches, established parish communities and schools in more than 30 places, was recognized as a civic leader, defender of native peoples, and an educator. Always and everywhere, he was a man on a mission.
Fall in love with this Freeport tradition...
Union Dairy Burgers and cool A Freeport Favorite since 1929
ice cream treats!!!
Try an Ice Cream Cake or Ice Cream Sandwich! Call to order your personalized cake today! 2011
Try our NEW Flavors! • Salt & Vinegar • BBQ
126 East Douglas Street Freeport IL • 815.232.7099 www.theuniondairy.com
70 E. Monterey, Freeport IL 815.232.7819 • www.mrsmikes.com
Monday-Friday 9 am-5pm • Saturday 9 am-2pm Available at most area grocers or direct from the plant!
Alber Ice Cream Parlor
Open Tue-Sun 11 am-9 pm through October 31st No Grill Sundays • Grill closes at 8 pm
www.journalstandard.com/the_trail 29
Experience | Autumn color
Enjoy the ride By Pat Schneiderman
Brian Malloy photo
30
The Trail
Fall 2011
Autumn color | Experience
N
orthwestern Illinois and Southwest Wisconsin are wonderful areas to take a drive in the fall of the year as the color, the hills and the landscapes are breathtakingly beautiful. You can’t go wrong with whatever country road you take if you’re willing to relax a little and just get away from your daily routine to enjoy the great outdoors in the fall of the year. You will find many quaint small towns with welcoming folks at every stop — and you need to stop — to enjoy the total experience. Route 20 through Stephenson and Jo Daviess County is a must for anyone who hasn’t driven the road. Traveling west from the Rockford area on Route 20 you will only find four-lane road to Freeport, where the two-lane highway takes over — with the exception of passing lanes — all the way to Galena. There are numerous side trips that can be made, such as turning north on On the Stagecoach Trail by Lena to take back roads road through Apple River into Galena. This What: Apple River was the trail that J.D. Winters and Frink & Walker stagecoaches used back in the early Canyon State Park features colorful 1800s, and it took them five days to get canyons, trails from Chicago to Galena! Or perhaps you want to stay on Route 20 that wind through until you get to Stockton where you choose the woods, picnic areas to turn north toward the Apple River Canyon State Park. The colors and the cool Where: 8763 E. crisp fall air are two of the reasons the area Canyon Road, Apple River attracts so many visitors every year. The canyon includes viewing places for the local (815) 745-3302 wildlife, which include turkey, deer, fox, pheasant and more. Back on Route 20, the road is winding and the landscape is hilly with gorgeous views where you can see for miles. If you’re up for a climb along the way, there is a lookout station where you can
Donald S. Abrams
SHOP&DINE
Our Barn Doors 7 Days are Open... a Week 9416 W. Wagner Rd., Lena 815-369-5300
9426 W. Wagner Rd., Lena 815-369-5330
9416 W. Wagner Dr., Lena 815-369-5322
Just off Route 20 at the beginning of the Historical Stage Coach Trail www.journalstandard.com/the_trail
31
Experience | Autumn color
Where do autumn colors come from? There are three types of pigments involved in autumn color. m Chlorophyll gives leaves their basic green color. It is necessary for photosynthesis, the chemical reaction that enables plants to use sunlight to manufacture sugars for their food. Trees in the temperate zones store these sugars for their winter dormant period.
m Carotenoids produce yellow, orange, and brown colors in such things as corn, carrots and daffodils, as well as rutabagas, buttercups and bananas.
m Anthocyanins give color to such familiar things as cranberries, red apples, concord grapes, blueberries, cherries, strawberries and plums. They are water soluble and appear in the watery liquid of leaf cells.
Showing their stuff Chlorophyll and carotenoids are present in leaf cells throughout the growing season. Most anthocyanins are produced in autumn. During the growing season, chlorophyll is continually being produced and broken down and leaves appear green. As night length increases in the fall, chlorophyll production slows down and then stops and eventually all the chlorophyll is destroyed. The carotenoids and anthocyanins present in the leaf are then unmasked and show their colors.
Source: USDA Forest Service
see for miles. If you’re up for a climb along the way, there is a lookout station where you can see the secluded valleys, the steep hills and the massive limestone cliffs. A local native, Vince Toepfer, offers private tours of many of the attractions of the area and can be reached at www.GlacierPassTours. com. Driving on toward Galena you On the will pass through the small town of Elizabeth where you can trace the road history of the attack on the Apple What: Apple River River Fort in 1832 by Chief Black Fort is open for Hawk or get a bite to eat at a local self-guided tours establishment. From here, you can and offers exhibits take Myrtle Road to the Hanover exploring the area — a World War II heyday area history of the site — or stay on Route 20 to reach Where: Off S. Galena — a town filled with history Apple River and fun things to do and see. Another choice for a fall drive is to Rd/Myrtle St in Elizabeth take one of the most scenic drives in (815) 858-2028 southwestern Wisconsin. This drive is along Highway 23 from Dodgeville to Spring Green, Wis., encompassing 18 miles of hardwood ridges and valleys. The area is known as ‘driftless’ — the meaning indicates a lack of glacial drift or the material left behind by retreating continental glaciers. The area is characterized by forested hillsides that reach down to valleys cut into limestone bedrock and cold-water streams — all great habitats for wildflowers and wildlife. Along the drive, you will have the opportunity to tour a couple of Wisconsin state parks — Governor Dodge State Park which is located just outside of Dodgeville and Tower Hill State Park, located further down the road and
Enjoy a great bike ride through scenic Green County. Stay with us at either the Gasthaus Motel, Monroe, or the Swiss Aire Motel, New Glarus. Bike from one to the other and we will transfer your luggage before you get there. (ask for details)
EXPECT TO BE IMPRESSED
Gast•haus
• Shops, attractions & museums within walking distance • On the Sugar River Trail, with connection to Badger Trail
32
(Gäst ‘hous”) noun a Swiss guest house or inn
• Easy access to Badger Trail, with connection to Sugar River Trail and Jane Addams Trail in Illinois
Hwy 69, New Glarus WI • www.swissaire.com For Reservations: 800.798.4391 For more information: 608.527.2138
Hwy 69 South • 685 30th St, Monroe WI 608.328.8395 • www.gasthausmotel.com
Your Hosts: Eric & Tracy Gobeli
Your Hosts: Randy & Teresa Gobeli
The Trail
Fall 2011
Autumn color | Experience
Travelwisconsin.com
houses some awe-inspiring panoramic views. A couple of the state’s top tourism attractions On the are along this route as well. One such road attraction is The House on the Rock, which was built in the 1940’s on the sandstone formation called Deer Shelter Rock. Although What: House on the Rock offers originally intending it to be a weekend self-guided tours retreat, it has now grown into a large tourist of an architectural attraction of many buildings, exhibits and wonder set on a garden displays. sandstone rock As you tour the countryside’s valleys and formation hills and get closer to Spring Green, crossing Where: 5754 State the Wisconsin River, you will come upon the Road 23, Spring second attraction built by one of America’s Green, Wis. greatest architects, Frank Lloyd Wright (608) 935-3639 — Taliesin East. A 600-acre estate consisting of a home, studio, gardens, grounds and a school, it is an impressive stop along your drive. Additionally, you can take a selfOn the guided driving tour of more than 20 Wrightroad designed or Wright-influenced structures in the region. What: Taliesin East For additional autumn color adventures, offers guided tours take any of the intersecting roads along of the house and Highway 23 that meander the coulees and grounds designed echo their history — Norwegian Hollow and lived in by Road, Hunter Hollow Road or Percussion Frank Lloyd Wright Rock Road. Where: South of Northwest Illinois and Southwest Spring Green, Wis., Wisconsin are full of beautiful roads and at Highway 23 and adventures waiting to happen on a day road County Road C trip — or maybe you even want to take the (877) 588-7900 weekend to explore! While gas prices aren’t what we would like them to be, you’re sure to get your money’s worth for that tank of gas if you just get out there and enjoy the beauty of nature. Whatever route you choose on your color-seeking adventure, take along your camera and capture some of your own memories. And don’t forget to enjoy the ride! r
Visit the orchard featuring
Apples • Cider • Cider Donuts and all your fall treats Pick your own Apples, Raspberries & Pumpkins Sat. & Sun. Pony & Wagon Rides
OPEN DAILY
SEPT-NOV • 9AM-6PM 8218 Cemetery Rd • Winnebago • 815-963-2261 www.journalstandard.com/the_trail 33
Where the Midwest & Mediterranean Meet
Fisher King Winery introduces
Sesquicentennial Wines celebrating Mt. Horeb’s 150th Anniversary Our seasonal menu features… Fresh Fish & Seafood • Hearty Pasta Certified Angus Beef Steaks Local Produce & Artisan Cheese Weekly Menu Features Great Wine & Beer Selection The Best Margarita House-made Desserts
Choose from 3 types: Dry Marechal Foch Red Semi-Sweet Seyval Blanc White Sweet Seyval Blanc White
Also, enjoy our Chalice label wines: Pinot Noir • Riesling Cabernet Sauvignon
Join us for our opening in September!
The Place for Celebrations and Special Events Located in the historic 1880’s Hoff Mall 101 E. Main St., Mount Horeb, WI (608) 437-WINE (9463) www.hoffbistro101.com Open Tue-Sat • 4 pm cocktails & 5 pm dinner ~ Reservations Recommended ~
102 West Main Street Mount Horeb, Wisconsin 608.437.6020 • www.fisherkingwinery.com Open Tuesday-Sunday
Unique gifts handcrafted by dozens of America’s best woodworkers
109 East Main Street, Mt. Horeb, WI • www.artisanwoodsgallery.com • 608.437.1811
Celebrate 150 years in Mt. Horeb...
Troll Capital of the World!
SEPTEMBER 10 9th Annual Thirsty Troll Brew Fest 17-18 Festival of the Mounds
OCTOBER 1 Friends of the Library Book Sale 1 Sons of Norway Host Frokost 1-2 30th Annual Fall Heritage Festival 1-2 Quilt Show & Raffle 27-30 “Halloween” at Cave of the Mounds 30 Tyrol Basin Ski & Snowboard Swap NOVEMBER 12 Hospitality Day 12 Holiday Craft Bonanza DECEMBER 1-17 (Weekends) Small Town Holidays 2 Friday Festive Eve 2-4 Caroling in Cave of the Mounds 3 Friends of the Library Cookie Walk
While you’re here, enjoy family dining at Open 6 am-9 pm
520 Springdale Street, Mount Horeb WI • 608.437.7470
Celebrate the
Charm & Magic of Christmas Patience Brewster A Merry, Magical Christmas
Colonial Williamsburg Christmas
Largest Collection of
Fenton Art Glass in the Midwest
Mark Roberts Santas & Fairies Edition
The Origins of American Style
Department 56 Villages • Old World Christmas Ornaments
Olson’s Christmas House 220 E. Main Street • Mt Horeb, WI • 608.437.3017
Mosser Glass Collection
Olson’s Flowers 214 E. Main St • Mt Horeb WI 608.437.3017
Experience | Drama
ADMIT ONE
An evening at the theater BY PAT SCHNEIDERMAN
E
ntertainment today comes in many different formats but you just cannot miss the opportunity to catch a playhouse production — there really isn’t anything quite like it. Whether it’s the feeling of being ‘live’ with the production or the thrill of the opening night, we guarantee you will enjoy your evening at the theater. Fortunately for us, there are a number of theater spots in Northwest Illinois and Southwest Wisconsin.
A storied tradition Winneshiek Players in Freeport is the nation’s oldest continuous amateur theatre and is currently in their 86th season. This is an organization of people devoted to the development and enjoyment of the theatre arts. This remarkable longevity as a playhouse has been sustained entirely by the interest and financial support of the memberships and volunteers.
It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play This famous story is brought to life as a 1940s live radio play, filled with music, live sound effects and plenty of heart. It runs Nov. 17, 18 and 19 only.
Blithe Spirit A comedy written by Noel Coward concerning a socialite and novelist who invite a clairvoyant to the house to conduct a séance, hoping for material for a book. The scheme backfires and he is haunted by the ghost of his temperamental first wife. Performances Feb. 4, Feb. 9 to 11.
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Fall 2011
Drama | Experience Nana’s Naughty Knickers Farce by Katy DiSavino where Bridget and her Grandmother become roommates for the summer but it quickly turns into an experience Bridget won’t forget, as it seems her sweet Grandma is running an illegal boutique from her apartment. Performances May 5, May 10 to 12.
Jane Lethlean
Winneshiek offers Season Memberships with a discount for those over 65 and group discounts for over 10. Curtain time is 7:30 unless specified otherwise. Tickets may be purchased at tickets@wplay.org. The theater is located at 228 W. Clarke St. in Freeport.
Dinner and dessert The Mighty Richland Players of Orangeville is an allvolunteer sub-group of ACT, A Community Together, which is a non-profit community development organization. They are celebrating their tenth anniversary this year. Originally a brainchild of Ben Hoyle and John Buford who are residents of the town, it was also a way to make good use of an old building in the downtown. The beginning years were in collaboration with Highland Community College students but have grown to regional casts and more professional playwrights in addition to homegrown material.
Bonnie Foust performs in a past production of Mighty Richland Players.
Squabbles
For the Fall of their tenth season, you can still get tickets for the following productions. The Monroe Arts Center serves as box office for the season.
A dessert theater by Marshall Karp is a comedy where a newlywed couple must come to terms with their aging parents who can’t stand each other. The seniors now have to live in the same house and there are squabbles — plenty of them! Performances run Oct. 14 to 16.
Murdered by Fatal Death
The True Meaning
A dessert theater offering by Peter Gordon where Inspector Pratt’s record of crime detection is rather dismal as the body count mounted. Performances are Sept. 9 to 11, 16 to 18, and 23 to 24.
This Dinner Theater presentation follows the cast on a search for the true meaning of Christmas. You will enjoy a wide range of Christmas tunes and stories with your dinner. The theater is located at 203 W. High St. in Orangeville. Creative Photography
Fostering art The third theatre in the area is the Monroe Theatre Guild which was incorporated over 30 years ago and is dedicated to fostering the performing arts in Monroe, Green County, and surrounding area. Local talent is primarily focused on for the classes and productions. Using a former department store just off the square in Monroe, they have extensively renovated, and included a black-box theatre, rehearsal space, an art workshop, a set shop and ample storage for costumers and props.
Monroe Theatre Guild members strike a pose during a musical production of You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown.
The theatre typically has four productions in a year, with a musical every other year in the summer months. At the time of print, the fall and winter class schedules were not yet set. The theater is located at 910 16th Avenue in Monroe.
www.journalstandard.com/the_trail 37
Experience | Drama
Developing artists The Timber Lake Playhouse is a non-profit summer theater company that is celebrating fifty years of providing cultural opportunities for developing artists and a showcase of quality theatre for the residents of northwest Illinois and eastern Iowa. TLP is the oldest continuously operating professional summer theater in Illinois. Timber Lake Playhouse holds theater workshops for children (Magic Owls), for teens, troops and organizations. They have a number of great shows planned for 2012 including Guys & Dolls, Working, A Musical, and Footloose. Check out their next season at www. timberlakeplayhouse.org. The playhouse is located at 8215 Black Oak Road in Mt. Carroll.
JANE LETHLEAN
Timber Lake’s Wes Drummond teaches some dance movements during a teen workshop. Theater workshops take students behind the scenes of what it is like to be a part of a working play or musical.
The northwestern Illinois and southwestern Wisconsin area has been blessed with so much talent and opportunity for participants and theater enthusiasts. Don’t miss the chance to take in one of these productions in the coming year! ď ˛
Enjoy the show!
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38
The Trail
Fall 2011
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Over 100 varieties and styles of award winning cheese Made by master cheesemakers from Maple Leaf Cheese Co-Op and other Green County Cheese Factories
• Fresh Cheese Curds
A “MUST SEE” in Monroe...
The National Historic Cheesemaking Center
& Imobersteg Farmstead Cheese Factory
• Aged Cheddars
GUIDED TOURS: $5 Admission
• Hand Dipped Ice Cream
• Cheesemaking Museum • Imobersteg Farmstead Cheese Factory • Restored Milwaukee Railroad Depot • Authentic Ribsider Caboose • National Museum of Historic Cheesemaking • Green County Welcome Center • Milk House Gift Shop
• Gift Packages • Cheese Trays • Swiss Family Sausage • Stump’s Hot Olives • Packer, Badger, & Bear Souvenirs
Open Daily 9 am - 4 pm from April 1 to October 31
We ship cheese & gift boxes across the continental U.S.
Corner of Hwy 69 S & 21st St. Monroe • 608.325.4636
W2616 State Hwy 11/81 Juda, Wisconsin
State Trail Passes available for sale for bicycling on the Badger State Trail & Sugar River Trail
Located 8 mi. East of Monroe
www.mapleleafcheesestore.com
608.934.1237 Mon-Fri 8-6 • Sat 8-5 • Sun 10-4
www.nationalhistoriccheesemakingcenter.org
����� ��� �
CHEESE LOVERS IN PARADISE
CHEESE COUNTRY TRAIL
Paved back roads where the only “rush hour” you are likely to encounter is the occasional herd of dairy cattle crossing over to pasture. Trails over bridges, through dark and cavernous tunnels, and nearby to award-winning cheese factories. Routes leading to parks and downtown shopping districts. Motels with overnight bike storage. Incentive programs and scavenger hunts for trail explorers.
The only ATV trail in Southern Wisconsin starts right in Monroe, where trail enthusiasts are welcomed with easy access to lodging. To the west, the trail runs along the Browntown-Cadiz Springs State Recreation Area.
�����������������������������������������
PERFECT PAIRINGS: CHEESE & BEER Swiss Amber Ale with Aged Cheddar. Fat Squirrel with Smoked Gouda. Mountain Creek with Limburger. Combine local cheese with local brews – the possibilities are endlessly delicious! Learn the origins of Green County’s cheese heritage at the National Historic Cheesemaking Center in Monroe, and walk in on weekday mornings to see cheese being made at Alp and Dell; or call ahead for a factory tour at Brodhead’s Decatur Dairy. Discover your favorite brews in the tasting room at New Glarus Brewing Company, or Minhas Craft Brewery in Monroe.
t h a n 10 0 e r Ba rn Mo
�� �� � CHEESE LOVERS IN PARADISE Swiss heritage, Swiss architecture, Swiss cuisine...you’ll find it all in New Glarus, a community bursting with Swiss pride for more than 150 years. Discover the art of yodeling. Step back in time at the Swiss Historical Village. Taste specialties like fondue, sausages created with recipes handed down through the generations, and cheese crafted exclusively from the milk of a nearby herd of Brown Swiss cows.
�� �� � �� �� CHEESE LOVERS IN PARADISE
You’ll love our small town hospitality: Albany (start your tubing or canoe adventure here on the Sugar River), Belleville (bike the Badger Trail and explore Wisconsin’s darkest trail tunnel), Brodhead (bike the Sugar River Trail to the covered bridge), Brooklyn (picnic in the gazebo), Monroe (shop the downtown historic courthouse square), Monticello (stroll through Montesian Gardens), and New Glarus (immerse yourself in the flavors of Switzerland).
FEATURED EVENTS
(Visit www.greencounty.org for a complete calendar)
Wilhelm Tell Festival - New Glarus
Swiss Fest - Monroe
(drama, art show, Swiss heritage) • Sept. 2 - 4
(Monroe Swiss Singers) • Nov. 6
Oktoberfest - New Glarus
(carolers and holiday cheer) • Nov. 25
(live music, beer and food) • Sept. 23 - 25
Model Train Show - Monroe (layouts, displays, vendors) • Sept. 24 - 25
Autumnfest - Brodhead
Tree Lighting - New Glarus Christkindlmarkt - Monroe (artisans, holiday market) • Nov. 25 - 26
Christmas Parade - Monroe (Santa, lighted floats) • Dec. 2
(chili contest, crafts, games) • Sept. 24
Candle Tree Lighting - Monroe
Fall National Tractor & Truck Pull Monroe (sanctioned pulls, music,
Christmas Walk - Brodhead
Q
food) • Sept. 24
ui lts
Chili Cookoff & Octoberfest Monroe (chili contest, sampling,
!
entertainment) • Oct. 1
Tour de Cheese - Monroe (bike tour) • Oct. 1
Fall Festival - Albany (flea market, crafts, games) • Oct. 1
Citywide Garage Sales - Monroe (hunt for bargains) • Oct. 7 - 8
Swiss Village Harvest Fest New Glarus (old time artisan demonstrations) • Oct. 9
Native American Artifact Show - Monticello (authentic cultural items) • Oct. 23
UFO Day - Belleville (parade, food, games) • Oct. 29
Halloween Parade - Monroe (around the courthouse square) • Oct. 31
(sing-along at Turner Hall) • Dec. 2 (parade, holiday cheer) • Dec. 2 - 3
Sugar River Christmas - Albany (Santa visits, holiday cheer) • Dec. 3
HOME DECOR • FURNITURE
Ladies Apparel
Your Store for Fall & Winter Fashions...
Separates • Accessories Jackets • Sleepwear Thyme Body Care Cuddl Duds
Everything for your home...
Sizes 6-20 including petites
custom upholstered furniture • table linens • lamps candles & flowers • framed art • accent furniture Southside Monroe’s Square • 1606 11th St, Monroe WI www.thegreendoormonroe.com • 608.325.2424 Monday-Friday 9-5 • Saturday 9-4 • Sunday 1-4
Southside Monroe’s Square • 608.325.6125 Monday-Friday 9-5 • Saturday 9-4
Celebrating
90 years in Downtown Freeport and
30 years in
Downtown Monroe
Your Trusted Family Jeweler Since 1921
10 E. Main St., Downtown Freeport 815.233.0013 On the Square, Downtown Monroe 608.325.2600
MULTI-DEALER MALL Finest collection of antiques and collectibles. Browse through our 1892 Antique Blust Building with a charming turn of the century atrium. Special section of jewelry. Also books, glassware, toys, kitchenware, furniture, silver, china, picture frames & tools.
10 1/2 E. Main Street Downtown Freeport, IL
815.233.0021 OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Sun 12:30-5, Mon-Sat 10-5
Fine Quality Furnishings
homemade meal! HOMEMADE SOUPS
A Unique Shopping Experience
Broccoli & Cheese • Cream of Potato Chili • Wisconsin Cheese Chicken Dumpling
Consignments change daily!
• Furniture • Home Accents • Gifts • Vintage Costume Jewelry
Southeast corner of Monroe’s Square Open Tuesday-Saturday
608-325-1011 sequels@tds.net
Warm up with a
SUPER-STUFFED POTATOES 11 Varieties available Try the Potato of the Day!
DINE-IN OR CARRY-OUT 1624 11th Street, “Southside of the Square” Monroe WI • 608-325-3526 • www.thegardendelimonroe.com Monday-Saturday 10:30-8:00; Sunday 11:30-7:00
Your Place For Lace...
Visit our new location!!! Inside the Monroe Antiques Mall 1003 16th Ave, Monroe, WI
Window Coverings, Valances, Table Runners and more on display!
Call 608.325.6699 for an appointment today www.europamonroe.com
Fall Fashions Now Arriving... Jackets • Sweaters Vests • Dresses Coordinates Brighton Jewelry & Handbags
1020 17th Ave, Monroe WI 608-325-3900 www.joannesdressshop.com Mon-Thu 10-5:30, Fri 10-6, Sat 10-4
Experience | Cruising
Photos by P.J. Francis
The Pride of Oregon paddle wheel riverboat was built in 1989 as a replica of the famous Rosie O’Shea. The 102-foot vessel can carry 149 sight-seeing passengers.
Paddle along the Rock River Take a scenic tour on the Pride of Oregon Story and photos by P.J. FRANCIS
I
magine enjoying a wonderful lunch or dinner aboard a paddle wheel boat on the beautiful Rock River in Ogle County, Illinois. The view includes Lowden State Park and the majestic statue of the Eternal Indian. Pleasure boats go by on your left and right as others enjoy the river in their own particular way. Sightseers and fishermen wave from the riverbank. Imagine no more because this scene can become a reality. The Pride of Oregon is based at Maxson’s Riverside Restaurant and the Paddle Wheel Inn one mile north of Oregon on Route 2. The
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The Trail
Fall 2011
102-foot authentic paddle wheel riverboat is capable of carrying 149 passengers who enjoy air conditioning and heating depending on weather conditions. The pace is unhurried as the vessel proceeds, barely creating a wake. The Pride of Oregon was built by Palatka Shipbuilders in Palatka, Fla., in 1989 and began operating that year at the Maxson dock. It is a replica of the famous Rosie O’Shea paddle wheeler. It is U.S. Coast Guard certified and operated by an experienced captain. The Pride of Oregon sails from April to October. As well as dinner and lunch cruises it is possible to take a sightseeing cruise on the boat.
steamboats moved 740 up and down the Ohio and Mississippi rivers at the peak of the paddle wheelers era in 1850
traveled 3M passengers these routes annually years was the 4 to 5 average life span of a steamboat, owing
to the vessels being poorly constructed and maintained, being sunk by snags and other obstructions in the river, or having their boilers explode
Isn’t it nice that one place remains the same?
Experience Switzerland...
without a passport!
Turner Hall of Monroe Listed on the National & State Registers of Historic Places
LIVE MUSIC - 1 & 3 Saturdays each month BABY BACK RIBS - Wednesdays 4:30-8:30 pm st
rd
“Somewhere on The Square” Monroe, Wisconsin
608.325.6157 www.baumgartnercheese.com Open daily 8 am-close
Come Home
Nov. 6, 2 pm: Monroe Swiss Singers' 45th Annual Swissfest Nov. 25-26, 9 am-4 pm: Christkindlmarkt, Old World Holiday Market Dec. 2, 7 pm: Christmas Tree Candle Lighting Every Sunday 2-6 pm: Dance ‘n’ Dine; oldtime dancing with live bands Every 3rd Tuesday 6-8 pm: Squeezebox Night informal accordion jam session Enjoy our authentic Ratskeller Restaurant for lunch or dinner!
608-325-3461 • www.TurnerHallofMonroe.org Two blocks south of Monroe’s downtown Square
Downtown
Monroe
Welcome to the new
Holidays! for the
NEW WORLD SHOPPING - OLD WORLD CHARM
• Primitive Home Décor
Farmer's Market on the Square until October 29 Wednesday afternoon and Saturday morning Sept. 24 Fall National Tractor Pull
• Billy Jacobs Gallery
(Green Co. Fairgrounds)
Oct. 1 Chili Fest Oct. 7-8 City Wide Garage Sales
• Largest Wooden Sign Collection in the Area
Oct. 31 Main Street Children’s Halloween Parade
• Affordable Gifts For Any Occasion
Dec. 2 Alpine Sing - Tree Lighting
Nov. 6 Swiss Fest
Nov. 25-26 Cristkindlmarket
(Turner Hall)
Dec. 2 Main Street Lighted Christmas Parade, Santa's Arrival, & Tree Lighting on the Square Dec. 31 Old Years Night Dance
(Turner Hall)
(Turner Hall)
Zoo on the Square until October 1
House toHome designs designs 1628 11th Street, Monroe WI
(Turner Hall)
(608) 325-4710
Mon-Fri 8-5:30 • Thu 8-7 • Sat 9-5 • Sun 12-4
For more information, contact Monroe Main Street 608-328-4023 www.downtownmonroewisconsin.com
Experience | Cruising
About steamboats What is it? A steamboat is any watercraft propelled by steam, but more narrowly refers to a shallow-draft paddle wheel steamboat widely used on rivers in the 19th century, and particularly on the Mississippi River and its principal tributaries in the United States. The boats generally were either a stern-wheeler, with a single wheel at the rear, or a sidewheeler, with a paddle wheel on each side.
“A (steamboat) pilot, in those days, was the only unfettered and entirely independent human being that lived in the earth.” —Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain)
Commerce Major cargo included cotton and sugar, along with passengers. By the 1870s, the rise of railroads led to the retirement of most steamboats. Beginnings Steamboat pioneering began in America in 1787 when John Fitch made a successful trial of such a vessel. In 1812, Robert Fulton and Robert R. Livingston began operating regular steamboat service between New Orleans and Natchez, Miss. Cruising speed Early vessels traveled at a rate of eight miles per hour downstream and three upstream. In 1816 Henry Miller Shreve of Shreveport, La., made history by launching his steamboat Washington; before long it was making the trip from New Orleans to Louisville, Ky., in 25 days. Boat speed increased over the years until Shreve’s record was shortened to 4.5 days in 1853. Father of navigation Shreve earned a title as the father of Mississippi navigation due to his adaptations of steamboat design to better fit the shallow waters of the river. A few of his improvements: m High pressure steam engine m Put engine high above water line m Mounted it on a shallow hull Industry growth In 1814, New Orleans saw 20 steamboat arrivals. Within 20 years that number grew to 1,200. Life of luxury Most larger steamboats had: m Lounges in the style of ornate hotel lobbies m Rich rugs, oil paintings and chandeliers m Famous chefs m Orchestras m Large staffs of maids and butlers to assist their cabin passengers A pilot’s life Steamboat pilots had to memorize or cunningly estimate the depths and potential obstacles along long stretches of river in order to navigate safely. Danger Spontaneous races between the captains of two steamboats were common and contributed greatly to the approximately 4,000 deaths in steamboat disasters between 1810 and 1850. Literary connection Many literary works reference steamboats. Mark Twain’s Life on the Mississippi — recollections of his own cub-pilot days — is perhaps the most notable. Source: History.com
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A pleasure boat speeds past the Pride of Oregon moored at the Paddle Wheel Inn and Maxson Riverside Restaurant.
Onshore, Maxson’s glass-enclosed riverside dining room reveals a stunning panoramic vista. Just outside, a sprawling deck allows you to dine in the midst of nature, perched on the shores of the beautiful Rock River. Banquets, weddings, business meetings, conferences and parties, family and class reunions, lunch and dinner river cruises are catered for.
Stay awhile Next door the Paddle Wheel Inn offers individual climate control rooms, free continental breakfast, extraordinary size spa, sauna, and free local calls. Guests have access to a fax machine, copier and free high speed internet. r
Getting there Maxon Riverside Restaurant and Pride of Oregon, 1469 IL Rt. 2 North, Oregon, IL 61061. (800) 468-4222 www.maxsonrestaurant.com Paddle Wheel Inn, 1457 IL Rt. 2 North, Oregon, IL 61061. (815) 732-4540 www.paddlewheelinn.com Reservations are recommended and note that cruises may be cancelled due to less than minimum reservation or weather conditions. Directions from Chicago: I-88 west to I-39 north to IL Rt. 64 west to Oregon. North on IL Rt. 2 for one mile. From Wisconsin: I-90 to Rockford’s Bypass 20 west to IL Rt. 2 south.
Wind power | Explore
Wind in the Sails
Photos by P.J. Francis
De Immigrant: Discover a working Dutch windmill in the heart of Illinois BY P.J. FRANCIS
W
hen Heidi Kolk, a volunteer miller at De Immigrant Dutch windmill in Fulton called the Irish Tourist Board regarding visiting Ireland to see windmills she was not surprised at the reaction. “There aren’t any windmills in Windmills were often Ireland,” the surprised tourism the tallest structure representative informed her. Heidi was in the community. asked if she had considered going to That led them to Holland. becoming a means of Of course, Heidi knew the communication for the Tacumshane Mill in County Wexford residents. The position was built in 1846. An unusual feature of their sails when of the mill located in the southeast of not in use informed the island country is that the sails turn people of news and clockwise. The sails are adjusted from events. the ground. Heidi was disappointed to find Tacumshane Mill has deteriorated considerably since its noexpenses-spared restoration of several years ago. Her interest in windmills has led her to travel to several countries. She utilizes the knowledge gleaned to tell visitors about De Immigrant windmill. De Immigrant is the only working Dutch windmill in Illinois and www.journalstandard.com/the_trail 47
Explore | Wind power
Windmill terminology Cap: The part of the windmill that automatically rotates to enable the main sails to face the wind. Brake wheel: Cogwheel mounted on the cogshaft that drives the wallower. The brake contracts around the rim of the brakewheel to stop the mill. Sails: Means to capture the power and begin the process of converting it to mechanical power. Windshaft: The axel on which the sails are mounted. Wallower: The large circle with cogs that turns the main shaft. Main shaft: The main upright driving shaft. Sack lift: A Rope is wound around a wooden drum, which pulls sacks of grain to the third level of the mill. Great spur wheel: The main driving wheel for millstones and other machinery. Cogwheel: Meshes with smaller cogwheels that drive other millstones and machinery. Grain chute: Guides grain into hopper. Sack trap: Portion of the floor that opens, allowing millers to pull up sacks of grain to the third level. Hopper: Holds the grain to be ground by the millstone below it. Grindstones or millstones: Always in pairs, the bed stone is stationary and the runner stone revolves.
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In the ground level of De Immigrant windmill there is a mill used to grind mustard seed. It was purchased from the Boetje Mustard Company in Rock Island in 2009. The stones are made from granite and were originally purchased in 1934 from Paul Oehmig in Chicago.
one of only two in the United States. Fulton was founded in 1838 by John Baker. The population was growing rapidly by the 1850s. Thomas Smith was the first Dutch settler in 1856. The first school opened in 1858 teaching grades 1 to 12. The Dutch Reformed Church was organized in 1866. A military college soon opened and survived until 1912. Dutch settlement reached its peak in the early 1900s. “If we were going to mill we would have grain in the hopper; we would go outside and make sure the sails are stopper, that the brake was on, and then we come inside and put it in gear,” explained volunteer miller Ed Kolk. At this stage the spur wheel, the main driving wheel for millstones and other machinery, is turning but the grinding-stone is not engaged. The grindstones or millstones are always in pairs, the bed stone is stationary and the runner stone revolves. “We move the lever towards the outside wall that pulls the straddle beam — there’s a bearing on top of that,” Kolk continued. “Then we go out and release the brake and the sail starts to turn. The runner stone is 2,600 pounds so it takes a little bit to get it running. Once it is running there is quite a bit of centrifugal force on it. Ideally we like the sails to turn at ten rpm; then the runner stone is running at 90 rpm. If we have the right amount of wind we can grind 100 pounds (of grain) every 10 to 15 minutes. That is quite a bit more than what we can sell.” The complete De Immigrant project is a functional Dutch windmill that was fabricated in the Netherlands and imported and erected at Fulton by Dutch craftsmen. The windmill
The emergence of the steam engine in the late eighteenth century meant the gradual end of windmills. Steam was more powerful and did not depend on the forces of nature. Most disused windmills were torn down or fell into decay, though some have survived. There are several windmill preservation societies in existence. Restored windmills have become popular tourist destinations and this helps provide funding for their maintenance. houses a tourism center and has been responsible for drawing thousands of visitors to the area from all over the world. “De Immigrant was brought here in 1999 and it was dedicated the following year,” Kolk recalled. “The wood is from central Africa and is called Balinga. We knew nothing about windmills, though a large number of the people here are of Dutch ancestry. For several years people had wanted a windmill and we finally got a big grant from the State of Illinois. We put about $300,000 with it.” The 100-foot tall building was constructed on a flood control dike by the Mississippi River. “We have to be able to stop the mill at all times,” Kolk concluded. “We have to be able to turn the cap into the wind. The cap weighs 25 tons. When there is nobody here everything is locked up.” Access to the windmill is at the front entrance on 10th Avenue and 1st Street. Stairways lead up into the windmill. Access
Wind power | Explore In 1893, there were 23 windmills in County Wexford in the southeast corner of Ireland. By 1929, Tacumshane grain mill was the only one left. An unusual feature of the mill is that the sails turn clockwise. Adding a wagon wheel to the tail beam made it easier to turn the cap into the wind. Groundsailer windmills, such as Tacumshane, have their sails adjusted from the ground. This model is on display at the Windmill Cultural Center in Fulton.
to the windmill can also be reached by walkway on the top of the dike. The site is partially handicap accessible. Close by the windmill itself is the Windmill Cultural Center, which opened in 2009. The center holds an amazing collection of model windmills donated by Henk and June Hielema. Some of the models are operational and are designed to show visitors exactly how the mechanisms work. The facility provides information for everyone ranging from avid windmill enthusiasts to curious school children. Fulton is located in Whiteside County on the banks of the Mississippi River and north of Interstate 88. r
Dutch people have been wearing clogs since medieval times. Wearers claim they are warm in winter, cool in summer, provide support for good posture, and absorb perspiration. Few people wear clogs today with the exception of a few gardeners and farmers. Most clogs are made by machines but there are a handful of craftsmen still carving them by hand. Visitors to De Immigrant are invited to try on a pair of clogs.
Henk and June Hielema created the model windmills on display at the Windmill Cultural Center in Fulton.
Getting there Address 10th Ave. and 1st Street Fulton, IL 61252 E-mail info@cityoffulton.us Phone (815) 589-4545 Wheel Chair Access Partial
Hours m Sept. 1 to October 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday to Friday; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday m Memorial Day to Aug. 31 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Saturday; 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday m May (weekends only) 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday www.journalstandard.com/the_trail 49
Explore | History
Chronicling history Roscoe museum houses eclectic collection of artifacts BY P.J. FRANCIS
A
uto Attractions is about much more than cars. In fact, if owner Wayne Lansing was starting again he would chose another name to indicate the diversity of this Roscoe facility. “We like people to come here because there are a variety of things to see at this museum besides cars,” Lansing said. “There’s a lot of history here.”
car. Bonnie and Clyde movie
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Check this out Historic Auto Attractions 13825 Metric Drive Roscoe, IL 61073
Explore | History “We have a lot of artifacts; not just of the cars. We have a large collection of Kennedy artifacts. We also have Lee Harvey Oswald memorabilia. We have White House furniture in here. We have on loan from Huston a mock-up of Apollo. We’ve got a space shuttle tire to look at. We got one of the gloves off the last Apollo mission.”
A familiar face.
Presidents and TV stars
In addition to several world leader and presidential cars, there are 16 different lifelike wax figures of American presidents, poets and artists. Lansing recently acquired several figures familiar to TV viewers. “We have a bunch of sets we put in from vintage era television such as M*A*S*H, Star Trek and All in the Family,” he said. “We have Archie Bunker sitting in his chair with Edith. We have the Batmobile, Ghost Busters and Back to the Future for kids.” Do you want to see a real electric chair? How about a guillotine from France? What about a cigar smoked by Elvis (or at least what’s left of it)? A horse-drawn hearse from the mid nineteenth century? A stuffed armadillo? The tan fedora hat Clyde Barrow was wearing when he and Bonnie Parker were ambushed and killed on May 23, 1934, near Gibeland, La.? Patsy Cline’s wig? Interested in Gone with the Wind movie paraphernalia? All of these items are on display at the Historic Auto Museum.
Wild wild west
Wayne Lansing is a big Wild West fan and it shows in part of his collection. “We have a lot of relics of the Old West,” he said with obvious enthusiasm. “Buffalo Bill Cody’s jacket; a bunch of autographed pictures of Custer. We’ve got a gun that was associated with the Little Big Horn – that’s a hard item to find. An old stage coach and a hearse from back in the 1800s. We’ve got a lot of animals from the Great Northwest that have been taxidermied for people to see what they look like — from buffalo to moose and from bears to cougars.
Notes: In 1967, Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway played Clyde Barrow and Bonnie Parker in the movie “Bonnie & Clyde.” George Barris built the car used in the film. The bullet holes were actually shot into it with a 45 caliber Thompson submachine gun. That car is on display at Historic Auto Attractions. The hole in the brim of Clyde Barrow’s tan fedora hat was caused by one of the many rounds fired at him and Bonnie Parker while sitting in a 1934 Ford Sedan. Bonnie’s small sequined
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RIGHT: Buffalo Bill Cody’s beaded deerskin jacket from 1894. BELOW: Plenty of Buffalo Bill memoribilia for fans of the Old West.
tan-style hat was given to her family after the Texas outlaws were killed.
several people were killed or injured who had association with it after the crash.
The only known piece of the Porsche 550 Spyder in which James Dean tragically died on Sept. 30, 1955, is on display at Historic Auto Attractions. In 1960 the car mysteriously disappeared while being transported from Florida to California. Wayne Lansing acquired the piece of steel from the left, front fender from the James Dean Museum in Fairmont, Ind., which closed in 2006 due to lack of visitors. The car was believed to be cursed as
Gun used to kill John Dillinger was owned by Martin Zarkovich, an East Chicago police officer. The serial number of the Special Model 1905 is 479960 38.
History | Explore
The secret service car that was immediately behind President Kennedy’s car the day he was assassinated.
Jack Ruby’s hat and shoes.
You don’t always get an opportunity to study them up real close.”
One of a kind autos
Of course, it is not possible to tour the museum without noticing the cars. What unusual cars they are. Even people with no interest in things automotive cannot fail to be interested. “None of my cars are muscle cars; none of my cars are stuff that you would see on the street,” Lansing explained. “My cars are one offs or very rare; those are what we hunt for. For instance, we got Joseph Stalin’s car in here about two years ago. It started out weighing about 5,000 pounds; now it weighs 15,000 pounds. It’s got three-inch thick glass
Actual flag from John F. Kennedy’s coffin.
Window from building Kennedy was shot from — this is the window next to the one Lee Harvey Oswald fired out of.
all the way throughout, steel-plated doors, steel-plated roof, steel-plated floor, and bullet-proof tires. It’s a sight just to see and I allow people to feel the glass because it puts you in awe.” After viewing Stalin’s car, Evita Perone’s Rolls-Royce seems almost inadequate with merely one-inch thick glass. Perhaps one of the museum’s most interesting automobiles is the 1956 Cadillac that was travelling behind President Kennedy on the day he was assassinated. “That is one of our prize jewels,” Lansing proudly proclaimed. World War II enthusiasts can view one of Adolph Hitler’s G4 six-wheeled
vehicles. President Roosevelt’s 1938/39 stretched Cadillac is there — complete with gun racks in the back and flagstaffs built into the bumpers.
More in store
“If a person likes special art, it’s art in the form of 3-D,” Lansing said of his exhibits. “People who have never been here before do not understand until they have been through the museum what’s inside the walls. We want to expand the museum to over twice as big as it is. It’s 36,000 square feet and we are trying to make it 100,000 square feet.” One of his ambitions is to put in a White House replica and have a
www.journalstandard.com/the_trail 53
Explore | History
mock-up of the oval office. “We cannot as citizens, even though we own the building, go in it,â€? Lansing said in reference to the White House. “I want people to be able to walk up and see what the dĂŠcor looks like, see the desk, see the current president sitting behind the desk — give you the feel of exactly what it’s like.â€? He is particularly interested in providing an educational facility for school children.
Check it out
Historic Auto Attractions really does have items to interest most people. It is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend, Tuesday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (On Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Open weekends only September to November. Closed January through March. Admission: Adults $12, Seniors (over 65) $10, Students (6 through 15) $7, Season Pass $25, Family pass $35. Telephone: (815) 389–7917.
Danica Patrick’s car.
Located close to Interstate 90 on Route 251. ď ˛
RIGHT: This microphone was used by Elvis himself.
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The Trail
Fall 2011
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Aviation | Explore
The
Aviation on display at Poplar Grove Airport
Wonder of Flight
Story and photos by P.J. FRANCIS
The Toy Train Barn "Visit A World In Miniature"
a
33rd Annual
GREEN COUNTY MODEL RAILROADERS
MODEL TRAIN
SHOW & SWAP MEET Saturday, September 24 Sunday, September 25 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Come on out and see the ever changing layouts and displays! Operating Model Train Layouts of All Scales Be sure to ask for Jan’s free “I Spy” game card and hunt for scenes and details throughout the layouts
W 9141 Hwy 81, Argyle WI • 608-966-1464 Open year round 10 am-5 pm • Adults - $5, Child Under 10 - $3 Call ahead to inquire about availability of train rides
The Stateline Ice & Community Expo 1632 4th Avenue West, Monroe, WI
Tickets available at the door A Green County Model Railroader’s, Inc. presentation in cooperation with the Monroe Chamber of Commerce & Industry. For more information call Justin or Kevin Johnson at 608.325.9779 or visit www.gcmrrinc.org
www.journalstandard.com/the_trail 55
Explore | Aviation
P
oplar Grove Airport is located on Illinois Route 76 in Boone County, Illinois, between Belvedere and Route 173. Once known as Belvedere Airport, the name change came about as a result of an annexation agreement to facilitate the construction of a residential, fly-in community. Bel Air Estates is located on 180 acres adjacent to the airport. One hundred of the homes have access to the airport via segregated taxiways. This airport community began in 1994 and a number of lots are currently available for resale. Condominiums are also available adjacent to a 7-acre lake at the airport. The village of Poplar Grove has enjoyed progressive growth in recent years but has managed to retain its rural ambience. It is close to Belvidere and Rockford where many of the residents work and shop. Chicago is a mere 65 miles away. Flight training facilities are available at Poplar Grove Airport and many trainee pilots choose the location because it is not as busy as other airports.
Wings & Wheels Museum recounts women in aviation BY P.J. FRANCIS
W
ith its extensive library, information cards and artifacts, there is an enormous amount of information for the aviation historian at the Wings & Wheels Museum in Poplar Grove. The history of female aviators, a subject that is difficult to gain information on, is dealt with in great depth. Bessica Medlar Raiche was the first woman in the United States of America to make an accredited solo airplane flight. She designed and helped build the biplane used for the event in 1910. Born and raised in Rockford, Raiche graduated from Tuft’s Bessica Raiche Medical School in Boston. The visitor to the Wings and Wheels Museum can learn about pioneer aviators such as Phoebe Fairgrave, from Des Moines, Iowa, who commenced her career in the early 1920s by barnstorming. Like other early pilots she travelled to different locations performing feats of daring to earn a living. She later became involved in efforts to legitimize private and commercial aviation in the United States. After the tragic death of her husband in a flying accident she continued to work for the improvement and development of the aviation industry. During World War II she set up schools to teach flying to thousands of students.
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Amelia Reid
Evelyn Sharp (right)
Amelia Reid was another woman who devoted her life to aviation. She experienced her first airplane flight with Evelyn Sharp who was the first female pilot in Nebraska. Reid logged over 55,000 flight hours during her life and taught over 4,000 students in the art of flying. In 1973 Emily Howell Warner became the first permanent female pilot for a scheduled United States passenger airline. Born in Colorado in 1939 she was inspired to become a pilot by a flight in DC-3 aircraft. She has won numerous aviation awards including the Amelia Earhart award as an outstanding woman in U.S. aviation. Willa Beatrice Brown, an AfricanAmerican from Kentucky, became the only American woman to hold a mechanic’s license as well as a commercial pilot’s license. As well as being an accomplished pilot she fought for racial equality throughout her life. She was the first African-American woman to run for Congress for the Republican Party. No account of women in aviation would be complete without mentioning Amelia Earhart (1897 – 1937). Her disappearance
wikimedia images
Willa Beatrice Brown was an accomplished pilot who also fought for racial equality.
over the central Pacific Ocean during a circumnavigation of the world is well documented. Pilots of her era were well aware of the risks and uncertainties of powered flight. During World War II Amelia Earhart there were numerous female pilots who flew new airplanes from manufacturing facilities to air-bases. Few people appreciate the difficulty and danger of operating a newly-built aircraft with its inherent maladjustments and untried components. Those women were unsung heroes who received little credit and no official recognition for their achievements when the war ended. These women were instrumental in opening the doors of aviation to female pilots. r
Aviation | Explore
Aviation history on display The Vintage Wings and Wheels Museum was opened at the airport in 1997 and has continued to grow since then. Through the work of a dedicated band of enthusiastic volunteers it has become a wonderful center for aviation education. The exhibits are changed on a regular basis. It contains an extensive library of aviation books, magazines and other publications. Various events are held — of interest to aviation enthusiasts and the general public alike. r
Getting there Poplar Grove Vintage Wings & Wheels Museum 5151 Orth Road, Suite A-1 Poplar Grove IL 61065 (815) 547-3115 www.thevintagemuseum.com
Poplar Grove Airport 11619 Route 76 Poplar Grove, IL 61065 (815) 544-3471
Hours Monday to Friday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Closed Sunday Closed Memorial Day weekend May 27 to May 30 Closed Independence Day weekend July 2 to July 4
Apples with a fraction of the spray Award-winning Cider • Awesome Apple Donuts Fresh Baked Pies • Hayrides • Petting Corral Hay Bale Maze • Corn Tunnel • Glass Bee Hive
OPEN: 9AM-6PM DAILY/September-December 6385 Kilburn (Rt. 70), Rockford IL (815) 963-7848 • curransorchard.com
www.journalstandard.com/the_trail 57
Explore | Rochelle
Spotting trains See what’s riding the rails at Rochelle Railroad Park BY P.J. FRANCIS
S
ince as many as 120 freight trains pass through Rochelle in Ogle County, Illinois, it is not surprising the town is a popular destination for train spotters. The Rochelle Railroad Park provides a perfect location for train enthusiasts to pursue their hobby. It is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. There is a parking lot, bathroom facilities and a shelter. The park includes a handicapped accessible observation pavilion with various vantage sites for the best visitor viewing and photography. The gift shop is open seven days a week April through October from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitors can see locomotives from many different railroad companies pass through Rochelle including the Union Pacific and the Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF). Only freight trains pass through as passenger service in Rochelle ended in 1971. The Union Pacific dispatchers operate out of Omaha, Neb., and the BNSF out of Forth Worth, Texas. Many doublestacked containers and truck trailers riding “piggyback” on flatcars pass through. Observers cannot help but notice the efforts of spray-can artists on many of the containers.
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Rochelle | Explore
Much more to see m The restored 1918 Standard Oil Filling Station on Lincoln Avenue is another well-known Rochelle landmark. It serves as the Rochelle Visitor’s Center and Tourism Office. It was the first filling station on the Lincoln Highway in Illinois. m The Lincoln Highway passes through Rochelle on its 179-mile journey from the Indiana state line The Standard Oil gas station is a to the Mississippi River. well known landmark in Rochelle. Each community along the historic road has its stories and Rochelle is no different. Author Emily Post spent time in the town in 1915 while travelling on America’s first coast to coast highway. m The Flagg Township Public Library is located at 619 4th Avenue Train watchers observe a Union Pacific train going through Rochelle. and is on the National Registry of Historic Places. It was built in 1912 with Andrew Carnegie funds and expanded in 1988. The words Left: This 1928 seven“19 TOWNSHIP PUBLIC LIBRARY 12” can be seen above the main ton Whitcomb was entrance. (815) 562-3431 built in Rochelle and m The Flagg Township Museum is located at 518 4th Ave. The is now on display at 1884 former town hall was about to be demolished in 1968 to provide the Railway Park in parking. Fortunately, the Flagg Township Historical Society was a shelter built and donated by the Rochelle founded in time to preserve the building as a museum. Rotary Club in 1998. m The corner of 5th Avenue and Main Street is the location of the The Whitcomb was Rochelle Firehouse Museum. donated by Stan and Fran Griffith. BELOW: Another Whitcomb locomotive at the park.
Lena KOA Kampground & RV Park 10982 US Hwy 20 West, Lena, IL 61048
815-369-2612 or 800-KOA-5361 www.lenakoa.com reservations@lenakoa.com
Kamping Kottages Photos by P.J. Francis
Getting there Rochelle can be easily reached from east or west by Interstate 88 and from north and south by Interstate 39. State Route 38 (eastwest) and State Route 251 (north-south) pass through the town. Rochelle Municipal Airport — Koritz Field is located to the south. (815) 562-8619. r Rochelle Railroad Park hours: 24 hours a day, year round Gift Shop hours: April to October: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., 7 days a week; November to March: Please call Location: 124 N. 9th St., Rochelle Phone: (815) 562-7031 Website: www.rochellerailroadpark.org For more: Rochelle Tourism, 500 Lincoln Avenue. (815) 562-7031 www.rochelletourism.com; Downtown Rochelle Association, Lincoln Highway. (815) 562-4189 www.downtownrochelleassociation.org
KOA’s comfy Kamping Kottages are rustic and cozy, with solid log walls. • kitchens • bathroom • gas fireplace & more Some have barbecues just steps away from your porch swing. FALL WINTER SPRING
Kamping Kottages Special
Stay 1 Night GET 2nd Night FREE Good from Nov. 1, 2011-March 31, 2012 Lena KOA Kampground & RV Park
10982 US Hwy 20 West, Lena • reservations@lenakoa.com
815-369-2612 or 800-KOA-5361
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Explore | Mining life
About Pendarvis historic site Things to do Costumed guides give visitors a taste of life in the old “Shake Rag” neighborhood, recalling the area’s heyday as the center of Wisconsin’s lead-mining boom. Visitors step inside the cottages early Cornish families called home, and stroll lush grounds featuring lovely gardens planted with native woodland wildflowers. Visitors may also go on a self guided tour using the new interpretive guide to the site.
Mineral Point Mineral Point became a thriving commercial center that housed one of Michigan Territory’s first land offices and served as a territorial county seat. The boom continued into early Wisconsin statehood, when zinc mining and processing became the dominant mining activity. (Wisconsin became a state in 1848.)
What’s in a name? Shake Rag Street got its name from the practice of women waving a dishrag from their cottages to inform their husbands their meal was ready.
Cornish cuisine Traditional Cornish dishes and desserts, including pasties and saffron cake, are available in local restaurants and bakeries. Picnic facilities are available at nearby Soldiers Memorial Park.
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Photos provided by Pendarvis site
A tour of Polperro House will give visitors a glimpse into mining life in old Wisconsin.
History in Limestone Tour a Cornish mining settlement in Mineral Point by P.J. Francis
W
hen immigrants arrived in Wisconsin, many of them built houses similar to those they had left forever in their home countries. For that reason, the Cornish miners who settled around Mineral Point built small limestone cottages. They left Cornwall in the southwest tip of England when the area’s mines became depleted. The lead mines of southern Wisconsin provided a means of utilizing their skills to earn a living. One of the cottages — the 1843 Trelawny House served as the home of Robert Neal and Edgar Hellum, who saved and restored the site beginning in the 1930s. From 1935 to 1970, Neal and Hellum operated a nationally famous Cornish restaurant in the adjacent Pendarvis House. They specialized in serving tea, cakes and preserves, and simple Cornish pasties. They ended up earning an international reputation for authentic Cornish fare and welcomed diners from every state in the union and many foreign countries. In 1970 the Wisconsin Historical Society acquired the property and began its restoration as a historic site.
The following year it began operating the restoration as a historic site interpreting the history of Cornish settlement and Wisconsin’s lead-mining heyday. Today the Trelawny House is restored to the period of Neal and Hellum’s residence in 1940. Neal and Hellum created the artistic and verdant gardens of Pendarvis in the 1930s to recall those the Cornish settlers planted upon their arrival in Mineral Point a hundred years earlier. In 1988, a 43-acre prairie restoration project began as a joint venture between the Wisconsin Historical Society and the Wisconsin Conservation Corps. Today the prairie thrives with indigenous grasses and flowering plants, comprising one of the largest native prairies in southwestern Wisconsin. Pendarvis also operates a distinctive museum shop and bookstore, offering a selection of locally made and imported English handicrafts, teas, preserves and saffron cake. The nearby Merry Christmas Mine hill property offers hikers a glimpse of many of the area’s abandoned mine shafts as well as abandoned “badger holes” — crude shelters dug into the earth by early miners, giving rise to Wisconsin’s nickname “the Badger State.” r
Mining life | Explore
Getting there Pendarvis is located on the corner of Shake Rag and Spruce Streets in Mineral Point: m 56 miles southwest of Madison m 134 miles from Milwaukee m 175 miles from Chicago m 38 miles from Dubuque m 238 miles from Des Moines m 260 miles from Minneapolis-St. Paul Prior tour arrangements for school, church, youth and other groups are required. Pendarvis PO Box 270 Mineral Point, WI 53565 (608) 987-2122 Fax (608) 987-3738 pendarvishistoricsite.org pendarvis@wisconsinhistory. org http://pendarvis. wisconsinhistory.org
We welcome you to The Ludlow Mansion Bed & Breakfast to experience the historic charm of one of Monroe’s foremost landmarks. We’re conveniently located one block from Badger State Trail. 6 Rooms with Private Baths • 3 Whirlpool Suites Rehearsal Dinners • Appetizer & Cocktail Parties Bridal Showers & Private Functions
1421 Mansion Drive, Monroe Wisconsin 608-325-5500 • www.ludlowmansion.net www.journalstandard.com/the_trail
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Browse | Trolls
Take a stroll through Mt. Horeb …
The Troll Capital of the World
By Mike Cowan
T
Its many whimsical trolls are the key to Mt. Horeb’s success.
Brush up on troll lore Origin: Trolls originated from early Scandinavian folklore. Appearance: Usually smaller beings, trolls are similar in size to dwarves or elves. According to ancient Norwegian legend, they have long, crooked noses, four fingers and toes, and long, bushy tails. Homes: Trolls like to dwell in mounds or near the sea. Perhabs they settled in Mt. Horeb due to the nearby Blue Mounds. Powers: They are known to have developed semi-magical powers such as prophecy and shape-shifting. They are often found to be guarding treasures of gold or gemstones. Age: Trolls live to be hundreds of years old. Personality: Though many trolls look a bit shaggy or frightening, most are good-natured. Source: trollway.com
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hey seem to be lurking everywhere — in the shadows, near bushes and guarding entrances. Welcome to the Troll Capital of the World! Mt. Horeb’s whimsical trolls are helping to celebrate the town’s 150th anniversary this year. Become a troll spotter along the “Trollway” that stretches along Main Street through the heart of downtown with its charming complement of shops, restaurants, art galleries and pubs. Start at the Mt. Horeb Welcome Center to pick Artisan Woods Gallery in up a troll map, grab your camera and Mt. Horeb carries an amazing you’re on the trail of the trolls. array of handcrafted items. The trolls are the creation of wood carver and artist, Michael J. Feeney. Mt. Horeb has a rich Norwegian history of settlers dating back to the early 1800s. In Scandinavian folklore, trolls could be mean and mischievous or believed to bring good luck. They have certainly brought Mt. Horeb lots of luck over the years as proprietors work hard to attract visitors. A popular spot to relax and meet friends is The Grumpy Troll Brew Pub, where handcrafted beers reign supreme while guests dine from a menu of hearty pub food.
Christmas in troll country Every day is Christmas at Olson’s Christmas House which features a mind-boggling selection of collectible Department 56 villages, Old World ornaments, American-made Colonial Williamsburg figurines, Christopher Radko and so much more. Browse through six fully stocked rooms of Christmas magic. Olson’s Flowers & Gifts next door carries an extensive line of Fenton Art Glass, Mosser Glass serving ware, and hard to find collectibles.
Dressed to impress A newcomer to the Trollway shops, Duluth Trading Co., the catalog and online retailer, has opened its magnificent flagship store in the historic 1882 Mercantile Building. And it’s a store like none other. The Mt. Horeb store is the only place where you can see, touch and try on a full selection of innovative, problemsolving Duluth Trading work clothes for men and women.
Tasty varietals Next door to Duluth Trading Co. is the new Fisher King Winery, introducing three Sesquicentennial label wines celebrating Mt. Horeb’s 150th anniversary. Taste Sesquicentennial varietals, from a Marechal Foch dry red, to a semi-sweet or nectar-sweet white crafted from Seyval blanc grapes.
Trolls | Browse
Mt. Horeb area attractions
By Mike Cowan
The Cave of the Mounds
Mt. Horeb’s Bistro 101 offers the finest in Midwest and Mediterranean cuisine.
Crafted in wood Across the Trollway from the Duluth Trading store, is Artisan Woods Gallery, with an amazing collection of contemporary woodcrafts from over 80 artists all across America. In addition to handcrafted bowls, trays, spoons, clocks and other household items, you’ll find fish wine holders that seem to defy gravity, handsome cribbage boards and Peter Chapman animal puzzles to delight any child.
Stylish dining Finally, wrap up your Mt. Horeb travels on a cool fall evening in style with dinner in the fireside room at Bistro 101. The restaurant is located in the beautifully renovated Hoff Mall opened in 1916 as a department store. Bistro 101 serves a seasonally changing menu of fresh fish and seafood, certified Angus steaks and pasta prepared as if you were dining in Italy. The custom-made bar features a selection of Wisconsin craftbrewed beer. If you’re searching for a great glass of wine, search no more. The wine list at Bistro 101 carries great wines from California, Oregon, Chile, Germany, France and more. Whether it’s a party or dinner for two, the focus at Bistro 101 is fresh. All the sauces, dressings, breads and desserts are made from scratch. “We prefer to work with local vendors for our fresh meats and vegetables whenever possible,” said owner Lisa Boté. The best of the Midwest and Mediterranean meet at Bistro 101. r
Commonly referred to as the “jewel box” of America’s major caves, the Cave of the Mounds has been recognized by the Chicago Academy of Sciences as “the significant cave of the upper Midwest”. Cave of the Mounds lies just off U.S. Highways 18/151 in Blue Mounds, WI. The United States Department of the Interior has designated Cave of the Mounds a National Natural Landmarkfor the variety and delicacy of its formations, A guided tour of the Cave takes you past a varied collection of colorful stalactites, stalagmites, (which ones go up and which go down?)and other fascinating formations. People who come to the Cave of the Mounds are amazed at the year-round Fun Fact constant temperature. Fall tourists enjoy The Cave has the the park-like grounds, with picnic areas, same temperature walking trails and rock gardens. Winter everyday, all year visitors can take advantage of the Cave’s long! 50 degrees F. comparative warmth. The Cave is open in the winter on weekends, and during the week by advance reservation. Visit www.caveofthemounds.com for fall and winter family events at Cave of the Mounds.
Tyrol Basin Tyrol Basin, is located northwest of Mt. Horeb, Wis., in a picturesque valley just 20 miles west of Madison, Wis. Open seven days and nights a weeks, Tyrol offers an all-day ticket, good from open to close, and a four hour ticket with flexible starting time for those who must budget their time. Tyrol has four lighted downhill ski trails and a triple chairlift: Snowboarding is allowed on all trails, plus offering one of the best terrain parks in mid-America. The park has a full variety of features, including a “C” box, funbox, and a variety of rails. The terrain park staff keeps features moving to challenge users of all skill levels. Already known nationally for its world-class half-pipe, Tyrol has added even more new half-pipes for the fun-filled winter season. For more information, visit: www.tyrolbasin.com.
And more! Also visit these Mt. Horeb attractions: www.littlenorway.com; www.bothamvineyards.com; www.mounthoreb.org; www.trollway.com. www.journalstandard.com/the_trail 63
Browse | Trolls
‘There’s No Tool like an Old Tool’ Mt. Horeb holds the amazing collection of Wally Keller By Mike Cowan
scrap metal creatures he lovingly crafted from old farm machinery, commercial s you’re tooling around and automotive parts and The Trail area this fall, proudly displayed in his yard. be sure to stop by the Following his untimely death, Wally Keller Tool Museum Wally’s wife, Shirley wanted located inside the Duluth to keep the tool collection Trading Co. flagship store in together. In accordance with Mt. Horeb, Wis. her wishes, Duluth Trading, In 2009, Steve Schlech, the catalog and online retailer, owner of Duluth Trading, was has since purchased the entire asked by Wally, a noted folk Keller tool collection. artist and sculptor, to come Now visitors to the new up to his house north of Mt. Duluth Trading Co. retail Horeb to see his vintage tool store can explore the Keller collection. He was astounded Tool Museum, stocked with by what he saw. a selection of pieces like a “Wally had over 3,000 vintage railroad spike puller, alligator tools, some dating back to the wrenches and wagon wheel early days of America — all bolt wrenches. You will enjoy displayed on pegboard and reading the “Whatsis” board grouped by what they were used to test your knowledge of tools for — farm tools, blacksmith Wally Keller and his Tin Man from bygone days and guess tools, timeworn plumber’s tools, sculpture how the odd old tools were hand drills and so forth. It was used. the darndest thing I’d ever For more information on the collection, visit seen,” Steve said. www.duluthtrading.com. r The late artist was known locally for the
A
Alligator wrench
Railroad spike puller
Wagon tire bolt wrench
Treat Yourself...
for Lunch, Dinner or Dessert! Full menu available
1405 Hwy 69, New Glarus WI 608.527.5690 • www.culvers.com Sunday-Thursday 10-10, Saturday 10-11
Buy 1 Double Butterburger Deluxe (sandwich only)
Get 1 FREE* Valid only at New Glarus location thru 10.31.11 *must present ad for savings
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Come and enjoy New Glarus’ lively, fun-filled
Oktoberfest
Sponsored by New Glarus Brewing Co.
September 23-25, 2011
Music, dancing, food, & events in downtown New Glarus Free admission to all weekend activities
Live Bavarian, Polka, Rock & Blues Music Great food, street vendors, plus New Glarus award-winning restaurants Beer tent serving five New Glarus Brewery beers on tap Horse-drawn wagon rides • Chainsaw carving The Big Cheese Fondue Pot, sample Switzerland’s national dish! Antique tractor pulling Plenty of New Glarus Gemütlichkeit For more information, visit www.swisstown.com or call our Chamber office at 800.527.6838
Visit our hill-top brewery... and try one of our six award-winning beers: Spotted Cow • Fat Squirrel • Raspberry Tart Stone Soup • Two Women • Wisconsin Belgian Red We also offer a variety of seasonals to complement holidays & a selection of surprises to keep it interesting!!
Daily Tasting Tours: 10 am-4 pm Tasting Room Samples...$350, includes three 3 oz. samples of our World Class Beer & a commemorative tasting glass
Gift Shop: 10 am-4pm 2400 Hwy 69, New Glarus WI 608.527.5850 • www.newglarusbrewing.com
Brewers o f Wo Hand-Cra rld Class fted Beers
Your favorite Swiss Store, now with a new name!
We specialize in Swiss, German & Austrian Imports:
• Swiss Cow Bells • Victorinox Knives • Cuckoo Clocks • Fondue Supplies • Br¨azeli Irons • European Linens • Raclette Grills • Folk Wear ...Plus much more! Stop by our new store or visit our online catalog at
www.shopswiss.com
523 1 St, Anderson Mall, New Glarus WI • 608.527.2417 st
Harvest Fest Swiss Historical Village
Sunday, October 9 • 10 am-4 pm Come and enjoy: • Old-time craft demonstrations • Cheesemaking in our 1890’s era cheese factory • Sausage maker in our sausage shop • Special foods • Stroll the grounds and buildings at your leisure & chat with our guides about the unique history of New Glarus
Swiss Historical Village • 612 7th Ave, New Glarus WI 608.527.2317 • www.swisshistoricalvillage.org
Polish Pottery Beautiful Blues
Handmade and Hand-Painted Polish Pottery direct from Poland. 526 First St, New Glarus WI • 608-558-8366 • www.thebramblepatch.biz
Thousands to choose from... Mix & Match!
New Glarus’ Finest Cheese and Chocolate Shop Finest 100 Cheese Specialties from Green County & Around the World Fine Wines & Sausages • Old Fashioned Bulk Candy Unique Flavors of Homemade Fudge • Homemade Waffle Cones
Home of Schocoladen Confections 554 First Street, New Glarus, Wisconsin • 608.527.2000 Toll Free 1-888-624-1234 • Open Daily 10 am-5 pm www.mapleleafcheeseandchocolatehaus.com
Deininger’s
Bar & Grill
Restaurant & Bistro Bar
Families Welcome!
~ A warm & inviting atmosphere ~ Veranda dining available during summer months
Extensive Menu
Daily Specials • Carry-outs Homebaked Bread Homemade Pizza over 1 lb cheese on a 14” pizza
Serving locally raised Choice Certified Black Angus beef Always a home-baked cookie for dessert with pizza, baskets and sandwiches
Grill open daily until 1 am Friday & Saturday until 1:30 am Four New Glarus Brewery beers on tap... PLUS competitive carryout prices!
Traditional European Country Style Cuisine
Mix & Match 6-packs or cases from our New Glarus Brewery in-house display
119 Fifth Ave, New Glarus WI • 608.527.2012 Thu 4:30-8 pm; Fri 4:30-9 pm; Sat 11:30-2 pm, 4:30-9 pm Sun 11:30-2 pm, 4:30-8 pm; Mon 11:30-2 pm, 4:30-8 pm
Custom pool cues for sale - over 300 on hand!
506 First Street, New Glarus Wisconsin 888.814.6275 • 608.527.2225
Free-spirited and affordable Barns by Billy Schmidt
Promoting American Made Fashions and Gifts
Ladies Fashions & Accessories
Sweet Romance Jewelry of California Michael Nowak Pottery
Sugar River Shoppe Closed Tuesdays ~ call for hours
108 5th Avenue, New Glarus Wisconsin • 608.527.4290 • www.sugarrivergallery.com
Season
Spend the
in
America’s Little Switzerland! SEPTEMBER
You’ll love our Autumn, Apfelmost & Holiday wines! www.newglarusprimrosewinery.com
• Wine Sampling - Take home your favorite! • Ask about our customized wine labels • Stop in and enjoy wine by the glass • Taste our “Chocolate Cherry” • Buses and Groups welcome 500 First Street New Glarus, WI 53574 608.527.5053 primrosewinery@charter.net
2-4 10 23-25 24
Wilhelm Tell Festival Schuetzen Fest Oktoberfest Antique Tractor Pull
OCTOBER 9
Harvest Fest at the Swiss Historical Village
NOVEMBER 25
Lighting of the Community Christmas Tree
DECEMBER 3
St. Nicholas Day - Holiday Shopping Specials & Christmas Cookie Sale
Will UPS All Wines MasterCard & Visa Accepted
WEEKDAY PACKAGES:
Your our Swiss Country Home in New Glarus, WI... Y
lf Brewery • Go Biking
Whirlpool Suites available • Wireless Internet Service • Indoor Pool, Sauna, Hot Tub, Steam & Fitness Rooms Conference & Meeting Rooms • On the Sugar River State Bike Trail • Alpine Restaurant • Special Group Rates
801 Hwy 69, New Glarus WI 53574 • 800.944.1716 or 608.527.5234 Fax 608.527.2365 • info@chaletlandhaus.com • www.chaletlandhaus.com
Enjoy a Taste of Switzerland in New Glarus, Wisconsin! • Authentic Swiss specialties served daily for lunch & dinner • Dine & Dance every Friday & Saturday evening to the music of a traditional Polka Band! • Enjoy the newly remodeled Ticino Pizzeria below the Hotel Balcony, open daily at 4 p.m. 100 6th Ave, New Glarus WI • 800.727.9477 608.527.5244 • www.newglarushotel.com
B us & Group Tours Welcome!
Browse | Unique shops
WHAT
$100 BUYS IN
SOUTHWEST WISCONSIN BY JEAN LAIBLE
The Green Door
Co-owners Nancy (left) and Judi display some of the goods available at the Green Door.
Located in Green County, you’ll love Monroe’s beautiful downtown square. This hub of activity offers a variety of great shops and friendly store owners. At The Green Door, located on the south side of the square, you’ll find everything for your home including custom upholstered furniture, home decor, framed art work, lamps, table linens and hundreds of other unique items. Co-owners Judi Henke and Nancy Maliszewski will be happy to assist you with all your decorating needs. Don’t miss The Green Door experience. The store is located at 1606 11th Street and is open Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and Sunday 1 to 4 p.m.; phone number (608) 325-2424.
$36 Bronze crackled apothecary jar
I
n the last issue of the Trail, we traveled West on the Illinois Route 20 corridor and discovered great gifts for $100 or less. Now it’s time to visit our neighbors to the north along Wisconsin Highway 11 to find more great bargains and gifts. Hope you enjoy your trip and see you next time on the Trail.
Nancy’s Ladies Apparel Just a couple of doors to the east of The Green Door is Nancy’s Ladies Apparel. Owned by Nancy Maliszewski, Nancy’s has a great selection of clothing, lingerie, outerwear, purses and jewelry, as well as specialty products of lotions, perfumes and candles. Clothing sizes range from 6 to 20, including petites. There’s something for every lady at Nancy’s. Visit the store at 1618 11th Street from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; phone number is (608) 325-6125. Perfect fashions for cool weather:
$22
Layer a crisp white blouse
$43
Decorative picture frame
under a $87 beautiful red sweater
$12 to $18
Book boxes for your special treasures
$9 each
$10 each
Colorful silicone spatulas and spoons
silicone hot pads and trivets
$36 Unique wooden cheese serving set
$6 each paring knives
$60 5 piece ceramic pasta serving set
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$60 The perfect black slack
$60 Bright white jacket trimmed in faux fur
Unique shops | Browse
$50
Lime striped T-shirt goes great with...
$82 Sleeveless vest decorated with zippers and grommets
Nancy’s carries Root brand candles start at
$24
Burington Shoes On the West side of the square, you’ll find Burington Shoes. Owned and operated by husband and wife, John and Valerie Burington, the store offers shoes, boots and accessories for men and ladies. The store opened in 2005 and specializes in the latest styles and personalized fittings. From running shoes to casual and dress shoes, you’ll find them all at Burington Shoes. Hours are Monday to Thursday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; phone number (608) 325-4464. The store is located at 1013 16th Avenue.
$5 to $30
Hartig Drug $69 and up Practical and cute Bogs boots
Stylish New Balance Athletic shoes for men and ladies start at
$59.95
Sports mementos and specialty baby items are available
Heading West on Wisconsin highway 11, you’ll enjoy this scenic route on your way to historic Darlington and Shullsburg, located in Lafayette County. About 30 miles west of Monroe, turn north on highway 23 and travel about 7 miles into Darlington, a town for all seasons. Hartig Drug is the only pharmacy and drug store in the county and started in Dubuque, Iowa, over 100 years ago. Gift items include stoneware, Yankee candles, fashion jewelry, sports memorabilia and University of Wisconsin sportswear. Hours are Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to noon, and the store is located at 327 Main Street; phone number (608) 776-4481.
Enjoy soothing piano music by local Dubuque, Iowa, artist, Jim McDonough
$80 to $110 Like running barefoot, only better, 5 Fingers running shoes
www.journalstandard.com/the_trail
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Browse | Unique shops
Pins and Pieces Quilt Shop If you’re into quilting, don’t miss Pins and Pieces Quilt Shop located at 208 Main Street. Heidi Brenum opened the store two years ago and fulfilled her dream of having her own shop and sharing her passion for quilting and sewing. The colorful fabrics, patterns and sewing accessories are available for your buying pleasure from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday to Friday, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday; phone number is (608) 776-2116.
25c each Colorful selection of buttons
$44 Heidi stands beside the Alphabet Zoo quilt kit Colorful fabric fills the store beginning at
$5 per yard
Tailings Country Store From Darlington’s historic Main Street, travel south on highway 23 back to highway 11. Hang a right (west) and drive a few miles to Shullsburg, Wisconsin’s third oldest city. Turn left (south) off the highway and head for Water Street where the town’s historic buildings have been restored to their original elegance. At Tailings Country Store, two buildings are full of primitives, candles, folk art, furniture and other items too numerous to mention. Owners Donna and Jerry Shepherd travel across the country in search of original, handmade, one-of-a-kind creations for the store. According to Donna, “We love what we do, and it’s delightful to find an item that someone else loves as much as you do!” Tailings Country Store has been voted the Country Business of the Year by the national Country Business Magazine. Plan to spend some time wandering around this charming store. It’s located at 235 West Water Street and is open Wednesday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; phone (608) 965-3220.
$8 each Old-fashioned brushes
$42 Wooden bowl
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$95 Handmade stuffed antique teddy bear
$79
Folk art horse
Unique shops | Browse
Choose from a variety of Christmas creations starting at
$2.99 each
Hanler’s Unique Shops on Water Street Just across the street at 236 West Water Street is Hanler’s Unique Shops On Water Street. On the first floor, you’ll find lots of goodies to tempt your taste buds. On the second floor, travel through 14 shops where you’ll enjoy an eclectic mix of fashion, antiques, home decor, baskets, artwork, vintage treasures and much more. Tricia Champion, store manager, explained owners Jim and Sandy Hansen restored the building over 15 years ago, and the business opened in late 2003. There’s something for everyone here! Hours are Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; phone (608) 965-8585.
$8 Wall hanging
$16 Black stretch belt complements the Cute striped dress
$29
$72
White sweater
Enjoy all the area has to offer and stop by next time to discover even more great deals found along the Trail. www.journalstandard.com/the_trail 73
Browse | Fall shows
The Pec Thing and Fall Diddley:
It wouldn’t be autumn without ‘em By Jae Hezlep
E
provided
Every fall, Pecatonica, a small town off U.S. 20 with a population of about 2,000, hosts “The Pec Thing Antique and Flea Market.” Held at the Winnebago County Fairgrounds and spread over five buildings and outside facilities, the weekend event attracts over 500 vendors and 10,000 shoppers.
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very year some 22,000 antique, art and craft shows are held in the United States and Canada. Pecatonica and Belvidere are sites of two of the biggest and longest running events in Northwest Illinois. For decades, shoppers for unique, vintage and handmade items have been finding great buys and treasures — as well as lots of good food — at both of these shows. Pec Thing The 2011 Pec Thing Antique & Flea Market is being held Saturday, Sept. 17, Antique & and Sunday, Sept. 18, at the Winnebago County Fairgrounds in Pecatonica, Flea Market on the west side of town, adjacent to Sumner Park. Show hours are 8 a.m. to Sept. 17-18 5 p.m., rain or shine. Admission is $3 and children ages 12 and under are free. Parking is free. According to Linda Bessert, Administrator of the Winnebago County Fairgrounds, some 500 vendors from four states are expected at this, the 31st semi-annual antique and junktique market. She notes that the event has been growing steadily and attendance in recent years has averaged more than 10,000 people. Dealers will be spread out over the fairgrounds in five buildings and outside facilities. Merchandise ranges from antique tools and quilts to yard art and jewelry. Collectors will find stamps, postcards,
“What a girl wants”
“Where casual antiques meet urban accents” 319 Main Street, Darlington WI 53530 • (608) 776-8722 Mon-Sat 9:30-5:00 • Sunday 11:00-3:00 • Closed Holidays Facebook: Sisters
. . . n t o g n l i Dar
238 Main Street, Darlington WI • 608.776.3070 Monday-Saturday 9:30-5:00 • Sunday 12:00-4:00
We l c om e to
A Town For All Seasons!
FALL FESTIVAL
September 18, 2011 Hay rides, bonfires, music, scarecrow building, games, food and more!
CHRISTMAS PARADE & FESTIVAL December 3, 2011
Lighted Christmas Parade, a visit from Santa, Christmas carols, hot chocolate, bonfires, & lighting of the floating Christmas trees.
LATINO FESTIVAL May 5, 2012
Hispanic festival showcasing the Latin culture, featuring food, music, games, soccer & basketball tournaments.
DARLINGTON CANOE FESTIVAL June 7-10, 2012
35+ events including sports tournaments, races, arts & crafts fair, carnival, parade, ATV pull...and so much more!!!
For more information, visit Darlington online at www.darlingtonwi.org
Browse | Fall shows furniture, glassware and everything in between. There’ll be new socks, antique linens, used books, CDs, sports memorabilia, fishing equipment and tools for almost every project. The hungry will find tacos, gyros, egg rolls and fried rice, funnel cakes, fudge, fresh corn-on-thecob, hamburgers, pork chop sandwiches, corn dogs, homemade ice cream, cinnamon roasted nuts, dips, and other great appetite satisfiers. The traditional Biscuits and Gravy Breakfast, sponsored by The March of Dimes, will be served in Moss Hall on Friday during the dealer set up and beginning at 6 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Early Bird Shopping for $15 per person is also available on Friday, Sept. 16, during the dealer set up from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Early Bird passes can be purchased in advance with a credit card by calling the fairgrounds at (815) 239-1641 or with cash at the gate on Friday. These passes are also good for Saturday and Sunday admission. Visit www.winnebagocountyfair. com/pecthing.asp for more information.
Juried craft show The 26th Annual Fall Diddley® 2011 is being held rain or shine on Saturday, Oct. 8 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 9 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Boone County Fairgrounds in Belvidere. Parking is free 26th Annual and admission is $6 for ages 12 and over. Tickets Fall Diddley are available in advance for groups of 25 or more and Oct. 8-9 are priced at $5 each. Boone County Fairgrounds are located on Illinois Route 76 just north of Business U.S. 20 in Belvidere. For additional directions, visit the fairgrounds website at www. boonecountyfair.com. Shopping at this juried craft fair also does good for others. Sponsored by the Mental Health Resource League for McHenry County (MHRL), 100 percent of the net proceeds are donated to 22 McHenry County agencies. Since 1969, this all-volunteer membership, now totaling over 100 men and women, has awarded over $4 million through the Fall Diddley® and Fair Diddley® (held in the spring) events. Last year they gave over $204,000 to help fund projects and services in twenty agencies. For more information, visit their website at www.mhrl.org. MHRL has a reputation for featuring hand-crafted, quality, original work. The organization achieves this by requiring each of the crafters and artists — over 300 — to be placed through a juried application process. Through this process, they have been able to provide shoppers with an outstanding display of folk art, wood carving, dried florals, pottery, painted and appliquéd clothing, jewelry, fine art, and more. MHRL President, Jana Parejko describes merchandise for the 2011 Fall Diddley as “Everything from goose clothes to jewelry.” She also mentions Christmas and Halloween items, and welded metal art for lawn ornaments, as well as indoor displays. Food is also featured at Fall Diddley. There’ll be hamburgers, hot dogs, Mexican and Chinese specialties and “Fair food.” Another delicious highlight of the event is Caramel Apple Pie sold as the whole pie or by the slice, from the Elegant Farmer in Wisconsin. This Farm Kitchen Bakery, Deli & Market, is noted by Gourmet and the Wall Street Journal as having “the best pie in America.”
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PROVIDED PHOTOS
This year marks the 26th Annual Fall Diddley Craft Show at the Boone County Fairgrounds in Belvidere. This juried craft show has a reputation for featuring hand-crafted, quality, original art work.
Shoppers browse the wares at a past Pec Thing.
More to come Another reason for going to The Pec Thing and Fall Diddley is to enjoy the seasonal colors and the beauty of the countryside in northwest Illinois. Besides getting great buys, shoppers will have fun on their hunt of finding something new … or old. If you miss the autumn events, check the websites for their spring events: The PecThing Craft Show on May 19 and 20, 2012, and Fair Diddley® Craft Show held on the on the third Sunday in May on the Woodstock City Square.
This cheery Fall Diddley character invites visitors to discover the unique items for sale at the October event.
Pottery | Browse
The wonders of
Polish
Pottery
BY MIKE COWAN
T
he exquisite beauty of Polish pottery has created quite a stir of excitement in American homes over the past decade. The mystique of Polish pottery or stoneware has been woven in eastern European folklore for over 750 years. Their intricate patterns and designs have graced the tables of European royalty for centuries. Polish stoneware originates in the Silesia region of Poland, noted for its high quality white clay, rich in feldspar and silicon. The city of Boleslawiec, in lower Silesia, is the home of award-winning Ceramika Artystyczna (Artistic Ceramics) Cooperative. Pottery aficionados will recognize their trademark pitcher with castle inside stamped on the base of each piece of crockery. Stoneware from Ceramika Artystyczna that is most recognizable today are the white or cream colored ceramics with brilliant dark blue, green, brown, and sometimes red or purple motifs. The most common hand-painted designs in today’s production include sponge-stamped dots, circles
abstract florals, speckles, scales, and, of course, the famous “peacock’s eye.” Each piece is individually hand-painted, so no two items are identical, even though the basic pattern is consistently the same. The beautiful, tiny patterns are painted with special hand-cut sponge stamps and custom-made paint brushes. The exclusive glazing process is fired at over 2500 degrees Fahrenheit, using environmentally friendly paints which do not contain cadmium or lead.
So many patterns, so many uses There are approximately 600 shapes and 4000 patterns within the three skill levels of painting available from Ceramika Artystyczna. The most sought-after pieces are the Traditional and increasingly popular Signature Unikat series. Signature U3 and U4 Polish pottery have been designed and signed by artisans at the highest level of skill. These artists have met particular criteria after years of study and mastery of the stamp and brush technique and now have the title of “Master.”
Polish stoneware pottery is made for both ornamental and daily use. Because Ceramika Artystyczna stoneware is so durable, it is ovenproof, acid proof and waterproof. It can be used to heat food in the microwave and is dishwasher safe. Carol Allen, owner of The Bramble Patch, in New Glarus, Wis., loves to show clients the many unique pottery design features found upon close inspection of certain pieces. For example, in all the baking dish designs, tiny holes have been made in hollow handles which allow heat to escape, lessening the need for hot pads in lifting. Berry bowls are made with little holes on the sides and bottom so moisture can drain into the matching tray. Carol suggests, “When baking, begin with pottery at room temperature, place in cool or warm oven (300 degrees) and then increase the heat to any level. It’s best to refrain from sudden temperature changes.” Polish stoneware can be used to make perfect breads, pies (fantastic evenly browned crusts), cakes and meat dishes such as roasts, meatloaf, casseroles, soups and much more.
“Each piece of Polish pottery is hand-painted, so no two items are identical.”
RIGHT: This patterned tea service set would brighten up any table. TOP: This stoneware “cheese lady” helps keep cheese fresh and easy to serve.
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Browse | Pottery “The mystique of Polish pottery or stoneware has been woven in eastern European folklore for over 750 years.”
Polish stoneware makes perfect pies with evenly browned crusts.
The array of shapes and designs are endless. In addition to traditional table place settings, you can find bubble cups, tea pots, serving dishes, bowls and platters, deviled egg trays, hunter stew pots and soup tureens, serving spoons, ladles, cookie jars, flower vases, napkin holders, spice shakers, delightful ceramic holiday ornaments and Christmas trees. A Wisconsin favorite is the charming stoneware “cheese lady.” Cheese is always served best at room temperature to bring out the full flavor of the cheese. Carol explains, “The cheese lady keeps the cheese fresh and easy to cut for serving.” American families have come to recognize and appreciate the beauty and quality of Polish stoneware pottery. The artists that have dedicated their lives to carry on old-world family traditions represent the finest in Polish folk art style. For more information regarding Ceramika Artystyczna pottery products, visit www. thebramblepatch.biz.
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The Trail
Fall 2011
At Trail’s End
Trail Mix
One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things.
— noun
1. chiefly (US, Canadian) a high-energy snack food consisting of dried fruit, nuts, and seeds, eaten esp. by hikers
— Henry Miller
2. A potpourri of fun facts to share with friends as you travel the trail The people of America eat around
350 slices of pizza each second, or
100 acres per day.
Swing your partner! Square dancing is the Illinois state dance.
There are six major breeds of cattle in Wisconsin: Ayrshire, Brown Swiss, Guernsey, Holstein, Jersey and Milking Shorthorn. In an average day, a dairy cow will: Eat about 90 pounds of feed Drink a bathtub full of water Produce 5 to 6 gallons of milk
Hauge
Church
An 18 by 18 foot church built of oak logs in 1852, is one of the earliest Norwegian Lutheran churches in Wisconsin to still keep its doors open. The church is found on County Highway Z just off State Highway 78.
Each September is Illinois Wine Month, a major statewide celebration of local winemaking proclaimed by Gov. Rod R. Blagojevich in 2005. September is the traditional harvesting season when vintners begin the winemaking process.
Wisconsin is the first in the production of many popular cheese varieties. Percent of total U.S. production:
80 Cold Pack & Cheese Food
67 Muenster 43 Brick 26 Cheddar 25 Mozzarella
Farmland covers nearly
80%
of the state, and Illinois is a major exporter of farm products.
The greatest amount of milk produced in one year was
59,298 pounds by a Holstein cow named Robthom Sue Paddy.
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