RAILROADS AND EARLY COMMERCE

Join us for a free presentation on how railroads influenced Manitowish Waters. In the late 1880’s, railroads created new and competing communities in the northwoods that dominated regional commerce. Railroad access to the Manitowish Waters Chain was always limited, lagging compared to other regional communities; but local loggers, resorts, guides and businesses adapted to these challenges. By 1905, the Manitowish Waters chain was accessed by two competing railroads seeking to access the last tracts of virgin timber and support the growing tourist industry. Historic maps, journals, articles, government records and pictures will be used to illustrate how rails changed the northwoods. Presented by Historian, Jim Bokern. Sponsored by the Manitowish Waters Historical Society. This is a FREE program. Refreshments will be served!