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Discover the Allure of Madeline Island

For a truly unique and memorable experience, head north to one of Wisconsin's oldest and most historic places. Situated on Madeline Island in Lake Superior, 2.5 miles offshore from Bayfield, historic La Pointe is reachable only by boat (including a car ferry) or small aircraft. Generations of Native Americans, fur traders, fishermen, lumbermen, old salts and summer travelers have called Madeline Island home. And every island experience should begin at the museum dedicated to its storied past — Madeline Island Museum.

For the second season, the museum is hosting the Crandall Doll Collection, an exhibit of rare and one-of-a-kind American Indian dolls handcrafted by Native American artisans representing nearly every tribe in North America. Along with the doll exhibit, visitors will have the chance to learn (through original artifacts and historic photos) about the island's various inhabitants over the past four centuries, ranging from the original Ojibwe settlers and French fur traders to Scandinavian immigrants and summer vacationers.

For a more in-depth experience, plan to attend one of the many new special events scheduled at the museum throughout the season:

• The Giving Tree: Discovering the Art of Birch Bark on June 30-July 1 will explore the many uses of birch bark, both practical and artistic.
• A Day on the Green: Madeline Island Celebrates Independence Day on July 4 traditionally kicks off the summer season on the island.
• Connecting Cultures: Exploring the Lake Superior Fur Trade on July 21-22 will examine the 18th-century fur trade.
• Traditions and Transformation: Celebrating Ojibwe Art and Lifeways on August 4-5 will focus on the traditions and customs of northern Wisconsin's indigenous people.
• The Food That Grows on Water: Gathering the Wild Rice on August 18-19 will explore the importance of wild rice to Indian peoples.
• Anniversary of the Signing of the Treaty of 1854 on September 29-30 will include an exhibit on natural resource management and U.S.-Ojibwe treaties.

:: Posted June 25, 2007