Historical – Page 2 – Historic Point Basse

Saturday, January 25th, 2025 |

If you’re interested in experiencing the process of harvesting ice, we invite you to come to the lake and watch. You can even participate and help cut the ice and remove it from the lake, if you’d like.
Time: 10am – 1pm at Nepco Lake: 11am-3pm at Site
Where: Historic Point Basse | 364 Wakely Road | Nekoosa WI 5445

During the late 1800s, the sale of ice was the third largest export in the United States, with cotton and grain occupying the top two spots. The ice harvested in Wisconsin was transported to various destinations, such as Milwaukee for brewing beer, Chicago to cool meat in slaughterhouses, and even as far as South and New Orleans to cool beverages during hot and humid summer days. The ice was kept in sawdust, which was abundant in Wisconsin, to preserve it, and high-quality ice could last well into the summer, and if enough was harvested, even until the next winter.

Saturday & Sunday, October 4th & October 5th, 2025 | Cost: Free

Travel back in time to experience the sights, sounds, and even the smells of 18th century life at a French outpost during the fur trade era. Witness skilled artisans demonstrating traditional crafts and trades that were essential for survival, from tanning hides to forging iron tools. Immerse yourself in the ambiance of the era as participants dressed in authentic reproductions of clothing worn by people from all walks of life in the 18th century. Be dazzled by the splendid and precise military drills of the French soldiers.
Time: 9:00am to 4:00pm | 9:00am to 2:00pm
Where: Historic Point Basse | 364 Wakely Road | Nekoosa WI 54457

Take in the scents of the 18th century, from the sweet fragrances of kettles simmering over open fires to the pungent smell of wood smoke. Catch the whiff of molten lead, hot iron, and black powder mingling with the aroma of melting candle wax. Savor the flavors from another time as participants prepare traditional foods over an open fire, including parched wild rice with maple sugar, spiced apple cider, and roasted pumpkins filled with blueberries and cranberries. Get a taste of history as you experience life as it was lived centuries ago.

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Category: Historical (Page 2 of 3)

Wakely Ice Harvest

Historic Encampment