Come along on an important journey
The Fox and Wisconsin rivers come oh-so-close to connecting in Portage, Wisconsin. There is a little stretch of land less than two miles long separating them. It might not seem like much, but this short trail between the rivers, located on ancestral Ho-Chunk land, held tremendous importance in times past.
What’s so special about this portaging trail? What were Wisconsin’s Native trails like in 1832? What happened on the Ho-Chunk Trail of Tears?
Take a journey with us on the trails of the Fox-Wisconsin portage and beyond. Then let the trails bring you back home with a greater understanding of the stories which have shaped our history.
Learn and grow as a family, a group, a classroom, or on your own. Read the compelling stories, and do the activities as you go along.
"Trails: The Fox-Wisconsin Portage and Beyond" contains essential history that is largely absent from, or glossed over in, mainstream social studies textbooks. Step into the past and personally weigh the issues at hand. Even adults will learn things they never knew.
The Educator Guide contains the full Student Text plus supplemental information and activities.
Contents
Chapter I Trails
Chapter 2 Indian Trails
Chapter 3 Wawa'...What?
Chapter 4 A Trail of Tears
Printed and bound copies available on-site
During the 2024 season (May 15 - October 13), families with children and educators who visit for events or tours may pick up a full-color, printed and bound copy of this learning guide for free. Funded by a grant from the Community Foundation of South Central Wisconsin. (One learning guide per family or classroom, while supplies last.)