7 of Wisconsin's somewhat cool historical landmarks
A time-honored summertime activity is to venture forth in the family van to learn the history of our great nation by visiting its noble historical landmarks. So why not learn the history of our own fine state by stopping by the following places of high(ish) esteem?
1. Fort Crawford Military Hospital (Prairie du Chien)
Back in its day, this hospital was a notable military establishment that began caring for soldiers in the early 1830’s. Why is it notable? It was here that Dr. Beaumont conducted his famous digestion experiments with a solider whose improperly healed shot-gun wound literally provided unsurpassed insight into the stomach.
2. Two Story Outhouse (Probably) Used by Lincoln (Janesville)
Part of the Lincoln-Tallman House (a six-floor mansion), this outhouse is quite innovative in and of itself. Each floor of the outhouse boasts four individual holes, and Lincoln, being a guest of the home himself, probably had to use at least one.
3. U.S.S. Cobia (Manitowoc)
Similar to the very models Wisconsin had built during World War II, the U.S.S. Cobia saw her share of successes sinking multiple Japanese vessels during pivotal points of the war. But, the really neat part about this landmark, you can have yourself a little slumber party right on site.
4. Teddy Roosevelt Shooting Site (Milwaukee)
October 14, 1912, our dear President was shot in Wisconsin after enjoying a hearty meal at Hotel Gilpatrick. A mentally unstable bartender thought himself to be acting on the orders of a now dead former President McKinley, but luckily Roosevelt suffered only a minor injury and carried on, giving a speech later that day.
5. Pabst Mansion (Milwaukee)
Famed beer baron, Capt. Pabst built this estate that would be worth around 32 million dollars now. Built during the gilded age, the interior is extremely decadent, but there’s more to these halls than chandeliers and ornate carvings. There’s a ghost! So when you stop by and take a tour, be sure to say hi to the ol’ Capt’n.
6. Elvis Presley Fight Scene Site (Madison)
No, this isn’t just a strange location for another one of those made-for-Elvis movies; this is real, authentic history. On a fateful day in 1977, Elvis pulled over at a local gas station to put an end to three-person fight. Coming from a life-long fan, I couldn’t be prouder of the stud.
7. Ed Gein’s Murder House Site (Plainfield)
I think it’s safe to say, Ed Gein is our darkest historical Wisconsinite and although the house no longer stands, the site still draws visitors. Strangely enough, rumors are that the mysterious fire that burned the house down three days before auction was to prevent it from becoming a tourist attraction.
