5 Snowy Winter Stories from Washington County's Early History
Washington County winters have always been full of grit, creativity, and unforgettable stories. From mail delivery on skis to the origins of Little Switzerland's ski hill and civil war poetry - these snowy tales present our community's historic winter spirit.
Winter Mail Delivery Ingenuity: When a Washington County Mailman Used Skis
Pictured is Bill Duehning, a rural mail carrier of Washington County. Standing resolutely beside his daily delivery truck, heaps of snow envelop the photograph, the result of a classic Wisconsin winter. For Duehning, snow was a mere obstacle easily conquered. If you look carefully at the bottom edge of the delivery truck, you’ll notice that something is missing – the front wheels.
Duehning replaced the vehicle's front wheels with skis. His ingenuity allowed him to fare through the poor road conditions and deliver the country folk’s mail!
Before Little Switzerland: The Race Track That Became a Ski Hill
Shoop... shoop... shoop! Skiers glide down the hill, one after another, sending up spirals of glittering snow. A classic winter sport, most Wisconsin ski hills are brimming with rosy-cheeked snowboarders, skiers, and tubers come December. In Slinger, the ski hill, Little Switzerland, provides the perfect slope for hitting the powder.
But did you know?... Before it became Little Switzerland in 1941, this hill was competition grounds for daring motorcyclists. When motorcyclists raced up the towering hill at exhilarating speeds, crowds watched breathlessly.
Motorcycle races began here in 1938 and continued until 1940. The hill belonged to the Winter family as part of a 40-acre property. In one animated tale, a cyclist lost his life in the midst of a performance.
Come December 7th, 1941, Slinger’s decorated ski hill was established. Through the years, Little Switzerland continues to be the central location of snowy merriment in Slinger.
The photograph above captures the spirit of Little Switzerland in 1960. Today, this legendary Slinger hill is still bounding with winter activity lovers, from freestyling novice boarders and skiers, to newcomers learning their first turns on the bunny hill.
The Tower Heritage Center
Washington County's Car-Covering Blizzard in 1947
Picture this: Your toes tingle from the cold after waking up on a January morning. The sun won't rise for another 45 minutes or so, but there's work to be done. It's 1947, and outside is the aftermath of the wildest, most blusterous blizzard you've ever seen.
So it went for many community members living in Washington County at this time. The blizzard of 1947 is legendary for its high winds and deep snowfall. That morning, there was so much snow on the streets that the first run of the plow completely buried cars and walkways. It effectively shut down transportation and schools, leaving many community members snowbound for days. Can you imagine?
A Civil War Winter Poem That United Washington County
During the Civil War, Washington County Families were readily contributing their efforts to help the country. Husbands, brothers, and fathers were away serving in the war. Back home, where the evergreens grow, women rallied to support the war effort in any way they could. With families divided, Christmas brought the pain of distance.
For a much-needed raise in spirits, Miss Ada H. Thomas, an enchanting young poet, composed a piece for the local newspaper. The poem, On to the Southward, is a lively piece. Here's an excerpt:
“From the east bays to the mighty Pacific,
From Illinois to the lakes banked in snow;
Gentlest in love, but in anger terrific!
That is the land where the evergreens grow!”
This winter poem was shared throughout Washington County. It sparked joy, bringing happiness during the snowy winter.
Sleigh Rides Down West Bend's Main Street
Oh, what fun! The holiday season brought excitement to West Bend's downtown. For every year, A.C. Fuge Senior, founder of A.C. Fuge Hardware Company, threw an enchanting Christmas party for children and their families. From sleigh rides to meeting Santa Claus and savoring sweet treats - the holiday magic was alive on West Bend's Main Street.
Preserving the Past, for Tomorrow
Community support keeps Washington County’s stories alive! Make a difference in preserving our community’s historic places and cultural heritage today - by becoming a member or making a donation.