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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Melanie Roth, Marketing Coordinator melanie.roth@wisconsinhistory.org, 608-264-6465 Swiss in Wisconsin: Revised and Expanded
By Frederick Hale The Wisconsin Historical Society Press announces the release of the newly revised and expanded "Swiss in Wisconsin" (Softcover: $9.95, ISBN-13: 978-0-87020-377-0). Arguably the most Swiss state in the country, Wisconsin's Swiss population has left an indelible mark upon the state's past and present. The first Swiss came to Wisconsin in the late 1840s, seeking refuge from impoverishment in the hills of southern Wisconsin. Author Frederick Hale traces their reasons for leaving Switzerland, their difficult journeys, and their struggle to retain their unique culture on Wisconsin soil. With the establishment of the colony of New Glarus in 1850, perhaps the nation's most distinct Swiss settlement, the state soon boasted large Swiss settlements in Buffalo, Green, La Crosse, Milwaukee, and Sauk Counties. Today Wisconsin's Swiss heritage is reflected in the myriad of festivals and events that occur throughout the year, including Cheese Days and Swiss Fest in Monroe, the Heidi Festival and Wilhelm Tell Festival in New Glarus, and the Holiday Folk Fair International in West Allis. This expanded edition includes selected writings from Swiss immigrant John Luchsinger, who settled at New Glarus in 1856, as well as additional historic photographs that capture the lives and culture of Wisconsin's early Swiss. Frederick Hale earned master's degrees from Harvard University, the University of Minnesota, and Johns Hopkins University and a Doctor of Philosophy from Johns Hopkins. He is the author of the WHS Press's "Swedes in Wisconsin" and "Danes in Wisconsin" and has written widely on Scandinavian immigration. ***** Media: For review copies of the book, author or book photos, or to arrange an interview with the author, please contact Melanie Roth, Wisconsin Historical Society Press Phone: 608-264-6465 / Fax: 608-264-6486 / Email: melanie.roth@wisconsinhistory.org
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