Welcome to Pine Lake Road, a place rich with history and stories that have shaped the landscape of Hartland, Wisconsin. As you traverse this path, imagine the early 1800s when the Potawatomi Indians camped near the natural spring, a site they called Shabaquanake, meaning ‘a growing place.’ This area, straddling the town line of Merton and Delafield, eventually caught the attention of early settlers. In 1838, Stephen Warren, Hartland’s first settler, claimed the land that would mark the beginnings of a thriving community. As you journey further, envision the bustling activity of the mid-19th century. In 1848, Christian Hershey constructed a grist mill using the power of the Bark River, a significant contribution to local industry. The completion of the Watertown Plank Road turned this area into a vital route for farmers transporting grains and hops to Milwaukee breweries, with taverns like the Burr Oak Tavern providing respite for weary travelers. Pine Lake Road also played a role in education. By the 1860s, one-room schoolhouses began dotting the area, ensuring no child walked more than three miles to school. This commitment to education continued with the establishment of Hartland Union High School in 1924, later replaced by Arrowhead High School. The surrounding areas evolved with time, transitioning from Native American campsites to a diverse immigrant community. The Swedish settlement of New Uppsala, founded by Gustav Unonius in the 1840s, aimed to establish a cultural and intellectual hub on Pine Lake’s shores, though the colony ultimately struggled and dissipated. The community’s legacy, however, remains a testament to the diverse cultural tapestry that characterizes Hartland today. As you explore Pine Lake Road, remember its historical significance as a crossroads of cultures, industries, and education. This road is not just a path but a narrative of growth and evolution, deeply rooted in the local history of Hartland.
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