European emigration to Wisconsin began in the 1830s. Before them, scores of explorers, fur trappers, and missionaries visited the land that would become Wisconsin. And before them, the Native peoples thrived in the forests and valleys and hills, and along the banks of the rivers and lakes.
LAKEFRONT WISCONSIN examines this timeline, and views the progression of the various groups of inhabitants. It outlines the development of Wisconsin's cities and their harbors built on the banks of Lakes Michigan and Superior. From sailing vessels to steamships, Great Lakes navigation and the creation of lake ports were all crucial factors in the development and expansion of early Wisconsin.