Population (2010) 22,172 Introduction Hastings is a pleasant surprise. When I was in college, the sum total of my knowledge about Hastings was that it marked the gateway to (or exit from) the Twin Cities on my many road trips between La Crosse and Minneapolis. Now I know that
Population (2010) 282 Introduction Old Frontenac was home to a well-heeled resort—the “Newport of the North”—attracting folks from across the US. It is now a well-preserved Civil War-era community undisturbed by modern roads. Visitor Information Your best bet to learn about the local scene is
Population (2010) 181 Introduction Homer is one of a string of old rivertowns between Winona and La Crescent that sacrificed much of their historic core for the widening of US Highway 61. History Around 1831, Francois du Chouquette, a blacksmith, set up shop at the
Population (2010) 5,911 Introduction Prairie du Chien is Wisconsin’s second oldest community and one of the oldest along the Mississippi River. Located on a wide prairie next to the river, Prairie du Chien has lost much of its old town to that unruly mistress, the Mississippi River, but continues
Population (2010) 947 Introduction Cassville’s location off the main highways hasn’t helped its economic fortunes in recent years; if you get here, it’s because you meant to come here. It is worth meaning to get here, though, as Cassville has good hiking, historical attractions, and friendly people.
Population (2010) 3,429 Introduction The oldest city in northern Illinois, Galena was more populous than Chicago at one time and has the infrastructure for a city three times its current population. It has a compact center of well-preserved 19th-century commercial buildings tucked into a narrow river valley; terraces race
