Laona And Northern Railway: A Historical Gem in Wisconsin's Northwoods
The Laona And Northern Railway offers a unique opportunity to explore Wisconsin's rich forestry history through scenic train rides in the Northwoods. Located in Laona, this attraction features historic rail cars and locomotives, providing a glimpse into the state's past.
Historical Background
In the late 1890s, Camp Five began its operations as a logging camp in northern Wisconsin. Logging camps were sequentially numbered as railroad logging operations expanded into new areas. By 1914, Camp Five evolved into the local lumber company’s farm, supplying meat, produce, and draught horses to the company town of Laona and its surrounding logging camps.
Recognizing the importance of preserving this history, Gordon R. Connor and Mary Roddis Connor founded the Camp Five Museum Foundation in 1969. This initiative was part of the preparations for the United States Bicentennial in 1972. The foundation's mission is to educate the public about Wisconsin's forest history, multiple-use sustained yield forest management, and the relationship between people and their environment.
Camp Five Museum Foundation
The Camp Five Museum Foundation operates as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, overseeing the Wisconsin Forestry Museum and the Laona and Northern Railroad. The site is historically significant, with the former logging camp transformed into the Wisconsin Forestry Museum. In 1996, the site was designated on the National Register of Historic Places, highlighting its importance in preserving Wisconsin's forestry heritage.
Visitors to the Wisconsin Forestry Museum arrive via the Laona and Northern Railroad. The "4-Spot Lumberjack Special," a Vulcan 2-6-2 steam engine, runs on the same tracks used for over a century, hauling two historic coaches and three cabooses. This journey offers a nostalgic experience, transporting passengers back to the early days of Wisconsin's logging industry.
Educational Mission and Awards
The Camp Five Museum Foundation is dedicated to public education, focusing on the historical and environmental aspects of Wisconsin's forests. This mission is reflected in the numerous awards and recognitions the foundation has received over the years:
- 1996: Camp Five was added to the National Register of Historic Places by the US Department of the Interior.
- 1987: Received the Presidential Environmental Youth Award from the United States Environmental Protection Agency for its education and ecology program for Boy Scouts.
- 1978: Awarded by the Forest History Association of Wisconsin.
- 1975: Received the Arbor Day Foundation National Award in Education for the Green Treasure Forest Tour.
- 1970: Honored with the Wisconsin State Historical Society Award of Merit.
These accolades underscore the foundation's commitment to preserving and educating the public about Wisconsin's forestry history of Laona And Northern Railway.
Visitor Experience
The Laona And Northern Railway provides a unique and educational experience for visitors of all ages. The train ride through the scenic Northwoods allows passengers to enjoy the natural beauty of the area while learning about its historical significance. The Wisconsin Forestry Museum offers interactive exhibits and displays, providing an in-depth look at the history and impact of the logging industry in Wisconsin.
Visitors can also explore the historic rail cars and locomotives, gaining insight into the technological advancements and challenges of early railroad operations in Laona And Northern Railway. The experience is not only educational but also a nostalgic journey through Wisconsin's past.
Conclusion
The Laona and Northern Railway, operated by the Camp Five Museum Foundation, is a vital part of Wisconsin's cultural and historical landscape. It offers an educational and immersive experience that connects visitors to the state's rich forestry history. With its commitment to public education and preservation, the foundation continues to honor and share the legacy of Wisconsin's logging industry with future generations.
For more information, visit
https://www.lumberjacksteamtrain.com/ or plan your visit to Laona, Wisconsin, to experience this historical treasure firsthand.