Spence Park - La Crosse, WI
N 43° 48.889 W 091° 15.285
15T E 640359 N 4852785
This marker is located at the corner of State and Front Sts in La Crosse, WI.
Waymark Code: WM52D2
Location: Wisconsin, United States
Date Posted: 10/30/2008
Views: 21
The marker reads:
"Spence Park
Because of the fertile soil and lush woodlands on the river shores, the Winnebago Indians settled in this area in 1772. Sixty years later they ceded these lands to the U. S. Government. In 1842, Nathan Myrick, the first white settler in La Crosse, built his log cabin and trading post on this site. It was designated a public boat landing in 1851.
This was the most strategic Mississippi River port on the western boundary of Wisconsin. Boats traveling north and south docked here, and wagons traveling west crossed the river on ferries from this place. La Crosse thus became known as the Gateway City.
The Indians made this a neutral ground and met on the prairie east of here only in peace and competed in athletic contests. Their most notable game was la crosse, from which the city derived its name.
In 1903 the city named this park for Thomas H. Spence, apioneer businessman and civic leader, who gave this land to the people.
Erected 1978"
County: La Crosse
Location: Park
MarkerID: 242
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Visit Instructions:
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