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Walk between the rows of tents, hear battle stories by the fire, and dive into this early 19th Century military encampments as all of it comes to life in stunning splendor on the Villa Louis main lawn, where the only War of 1812 battle was fought in Wisconsin. Step into a recreated soldier encampment that includes a traveling forge, period game, crafts and cooking. Come spend the day and immerse yourself in the three-day siege by the British on Fort Shelby that began on July 17, 1814. But there’s more than just battlefield history to see at this encampment—you’ll also have an opportunity to explore the lives of the early French-Canadian residents of Prairie du Chien through story, dance and music with a “A Voyageur’s Tale.” See the history of Wisconsin and the Upper Midwest come alive as French voyageur and fur trader “Jean-Christophe” paddles and dances his way from Quebec to the Mississippi River through land that was once called New France. Meet Jean-Christophe's French-Ojibwe family and discover how the customs, clothing, and dance of these two cultures blended to inform our regional heritage. The audience will have the opportunity to learn French words, sing a voyageur song, and master canoe paddle tricks! Volunteers will dance a historic dance game to live fiddle music.
A popular school and festival show, A Voyageur’s Tale is reenacted by two dancers and a fiddler. Dancer, actor and historian Jane Peck will perform with musicians Gary Schultz and Paulino Brenner during this interactive show that’s sure to put you on your feet. With countless years of experience, Peck, Schultz and Brenner will demonstrate the rich cultural roots of early French-Canadian settlers in new and exciting ways.
Along with the entertainment, admission to the event includes a tour of the Villa Louis mansion. Food will be available for purchase on both days on the grounds.
Single Day Cost
Adult (18-64): $17.50
Teen (13-17): $17.50
Senior (65+): $17.50
Child (5-12): $12.50
Child Under 5: Free
Weekend Cost
Adult (18-64): $20
Teen (13-17): $20
Senior (65+): $20
Child (5-12): $15
Child Under 5: Free
Tickets may also be purchased onsite.
Society members receive a 10% discount, please verify your membership where prompted to receive discount at check out.
About the Location
Villa Louis served as a comfortable and stylish country estate for three generations of the Dousman family—a family that built its fortune from early American frontier opportunities such as land and transportation investments. Hercules L. Dousman began development of the site during the 1840s on the banks of the Mississippi River in Prairie du Chien. The property has since expanded into a 25-acre complex complete with historic structures and archaeological remains that reference the early history of the site. Upon the death of Hercules in 1868, widow Jane Dousman and son H. Louis Dousman contracted Milwaukee architect E. Townsend Mix to build the stately mansion that now rests at the heart of the property. In addition to the new residence, H. Louis expanded the site to include a farm for breeding and racing horses. After Louis’ death, Nina Dousman raised their children at Villa Louis, and the property remained under family ownership until it was given to the City of Prairie du Chien in 1935. In 1950, Villa Louis became property of the Wisconsin Historical Society, and opened to the public in 1952.
Prior to Dousman ownership, Indigenous natives lived on the Villa Louis grounds over 2000 years ago. For centuries, Native Nations of the upper Mississippi gathered upon the island to trade among themselves until the fur trade brought French-speaking traders in contact with Indigenous tribesmen and women. The trade also attracted free Black settlers to Prairie du Chien. Additionally, officers and agents of the United States brought enslaved men and women to the prairie, some of whom lived at Fort Crawford and other structures that once stood on land that is now part of Villa Louis State Historic Site. Research and restorations continue to fully expand the story of these early residents and events.
Villa Louis
521 Villa Louis Rd
Prairie du Chien, WI 53821
Know Before You Go & Accessibility
Lunch food options will be available for purchase by the Friends of Villa Louis. This event will be held rain or shine. Guests with additional mobility needs are encouraged to contact Villa Louis directly at 608-326-2721 or [email protected].
Contact
For more information, please contact the box office at 608-264-4848 or [email protected].
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
521 N Villa Louis Rd, Prairie du Chien, WI, United States, Wisconsin 53821
Tickets
