The Wisconsin Magazine of History, Volume 1, 1917-1918

This first volume of the Wisconsin Magazine of History opens a vivid window onto the state’s early days, gathering essays, documents, and fragmentary curiosities that bring the 19th‑century frontier to life. Readers will meet the pioneering scholar who first chronicled Wisconsin’s landscape, explore a dramatic forest fire that swept the northern woods, and learn how local bankers rallied during the turmoil of 1861‑62. Scattered throughout are rare primary sources—a Civil War‑era diary, treaty excerpts, and early newspaper prints—that let listeners hear the voices of the people who shaped the region.

Beyond the scholarly articles, the magazine offers lively “Question Box” features and editorial reflections on everything from state symbols to the challenges of war, giving a textured sense of community concerns at the time. Short historical fragments, such as the first Wisconsin versifiers and quirky transportation inventions, add charm and depth. Altogether, the collection paints a rich portrait of a young state’s struggles, triumphs, and enduring legacy.