Prairie du Chien (town), Wisconsin

Prairie du Chien is a city in Crawford County, Wisconsin, United States. It is the county seat of Crawford County and is located near the confluence of the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers. As of the 2020 census, the population was 5,506.

History:

Prairie du Chien boasts a rich and complex history, predating European settlement. Indigenous peoples, primarily of the Mississippian culture, inhabited the area for centuries, utilizing the fertile land and strategic location for agriculture and trade. The area was later inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Meskwaki (Fox), Sauk, and Ho-Chunk (Winnebago).

The name "Prairie du Chien" is French, translating to "Prairie of the Dog." The origin of the name is attributed to a Fox chief named Alimot, whose name was translated as "Dog" by the French. The name likely applied to his village or territory, which was located on the prairie.

The site became a significant trading post in the late 17th and early 18th centuries, attracting French fur traders such as Nicolas Perrot. It was a key hub in the fur trade network, connecting the Great Lakes region with the Mississippi River valley. Throughout the 18th century, control of the region shifted between France and Great Britain.

Following the American Revolutionary War, Prairie du Chien came under the control of the United States. It played a crucial role during the War of 1812, with both American and British forces vying for control of the strategic location. The Battle of Prairie du Chien was fought in 1814, resulting in a temporary British victory.

In the 19th century, Prairie du Chien served as an important steamboat landing and a center for agriculture. Villa Louis, a historic mansion built on the site of the former trading post, stands as a testament to the city's past.

Geography:

Prairie du Chien is located at 43°02′13″N 91°08′19″W (43.037036, -91.138524). According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 6.36 square miles (16.47 km2), of which 5.46 square miles (14.14 km2) is land and 0.90 square miles (2.33 km2) is water.

Economy:

The economy of Prairie du Chien is diverse, with agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and healthcare playing significant roles.

Points of Interest:

• Villa Louis: A historic mansion and National Historic Landmark, offering insights into the region's fur trading past and the lives of the Dousman family.
• St. Feriole Island: A large island located in the Mississippi River adjacent to Prairie du Chien.
• Effigy Mounds National Monument: Located nearby, this monument preserves prehistoric Native American mounds.
• Mississippi River: Offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and scenic views.

Transportation:

Prairie du Chien is served by U.S. Highway 18 and Wisconsin Highway 35. The city also has a municipal airport.

Notable People:

• Joseph Rolette: Fur trader and politician.
• Hercules L. Dousman: Fur trader and businessman.
• Thomas H. Flett: Wisconsin State Assemblyman and Senator.