Welcome to the Gordon-Wascott Historical Society, a place where the echoes of history are preserved and shared through stories that span millennia. The history of Gordon, Wisconsin, is as rich as the landscape it inhabits, starting with evidence of human activity dating back to the Paleo-Indian period between 5,000 and 8,000 B.C. This site was once a bustling campground, a testament to the ancient peoples who roamed these lands.
Fast forward to the 19th century when the area became home to a significant Ojibwe village led by Chief Kabemappa. His leadership was pivotal, as he was the signatory of many crucial treaties between 1825 and 1847. The village, then known as Namai-Kowagon, meaning ‘Sturgeon,’ was a hub for fur traders navigating the important route between Lake Superior and the Mississippi River. This trail laid the foundation for what would become the town of Gordon.
In 1858, Antoine and Sarah Dingley Gordon, both of Métis heritage, settled in Gordon. They established a log trading post, which became the heart of the settlement. Their settlement, originally known as Amick, meaning ‘beaver,’ became an official postal route in 1844 and took on the name ‘Gordon’ when the Omaha Railroad arrived in 1881. This marked a turning point, as the railroad shifted the community’s focus towards the burgeoning lumber industry.
The lumber boom in the Northwoods was a defining era, with Gordon’s strategic location playing a crucial role. Logs from Lake St. Croix and the Eau Claire Lakes converged here, transforming the area into a lumber hub. However, as the industry waned, the community turned to agriculture, which faced challenges due to poor soil quality and the droughts of the 1930s.
Today, Gordon and Wascott have embraced their natural beauty, evolving into tourist and recreational destinations. The historical society offers a glimpse into this rich past, with facilities like the Amick Historical Park honoring the Ojibwe and Métis heritage. Visitors can explore remnants of early settlements, including copper mines and logging camps, which tell the story of the region’s industrious past.
Notable figures like Chief Kabemappa and the Gordons have left an indelible mark on the area, shaping its history and legacy. Whether you’re walking through the historical society’s exhibits or exploring the beautiful landscapes, the stories of Gordon and Wascott offer a fascinating journey through time.
