Great River Road
Prairie du Chien, WI

Stop at the Wisconsin Tourist Information Center to learn about the many area attractions of this second oldest settlement in Wisconsin. It became a trade center as early as the 1670's with the arrival of Marquette and Jolliet. The French had osme claim to the area for nearly 100 years during which time they took advantage of the fur trade. In 1763, the British took control.

On St. Feriole Island of Prairie du Chien, the British and Americans struggled to maintain the territory through the early 1800's. Forts were erected and burned down. What now stands is Fort Crawford of 1816. Medical history from the 1800's and an exhibit of medical quackery is displayed today at the Fort Crawford Medical Musuem. The American Fur Company warehouses built in the early 19th century still survive today on historic St. Feriole Island as does remnants of the old American Fort built to protect this outpost.

In the 1870's, Hercules Dousman built Villa Louis, now owned and operated by the State Historical Society. The opulent estate of Feriole Island has one of the nation's finest collection of Victorian decorative arts. The Villa Louis Historical marker at this site provides an overview of the origin and history of this luxurious mansion.

Now Prairie du Chien is mainly located on the mainland because of severe flooding. Nevertheless, the town has several historic sites and districts. Tour Prairie du Chien in a horse and carriage or view the Mississippi aboard excursion boats.