NATIONAL WISCONSIN DAY

On February 15, National Wisconsin Day recognizes The Badger State.

Rich in copper, lead, forest and fertile farmland, Wisconsin became the 30th state. In 1634, French explorer Jean Nicolet was the first European to reach Wisconsin while seeking a Northwest passage to China.

A mining boom, not fur trading, led to the nickname The Badger State. According to oral history, the miners burrowed into the hillsides much like badgers for shelter instead of setting up more permanent homesteads. The first wave of settlers to the area also began the uprooting of the Ho-Chunk, Menominee, Chippewa and other indigenous people.

Early in Wisconsin’s settlement, dairy production began to take root. By the turn of the century, the state became known for its dairy farms and synonymous with cheese.

Mining, dairies, and breweries grew one after the other. An influx of German immigrants in the 1850s brought a new brand of dreamers. Brewers cropped up across Wisconsin satisfying the thirst of The Badger State. As with brewers in other regions of the country, the 18th Amendment of 1919 prohibiting alcohol drowned out much of the competition leaving only a handful after the legislation was repealed in 1933.

From Lake Michigan to Superior and numerous river and lakes in between, Wisconsin offers ample opportunity for water recreation and sport. There are also year-round trails perfect for summer hiking or substantial snow for winter activities.

Official Wisconsin

State Capital – Madison
State Nickname – The Badger State
Stte Motto -Forward
State Bird – American Robin
State Flower – Wood Violet
State Animal -Badger State Folk Dance – Polka. State Fish – Muskellunge
State Rock – Red Granite
State Mineral – Galena. State Tree – Sugar Maple State Song – On Wisconsin
State Waltz – The Wisconsin Waltz

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalWisconsinDay

“Discover a taste of Wisconsin. Explore the 30th state’s history, people, and culture. Uncover and Travel Wisconsin with all her hidden treasures and amazing landscapes!” Use #NationalWisconsinDay to share on social media.

Wisconsin Flavors

Fried cheese curds
Beer cheese soup
Brats
Brandy Old Fashioned
Blue Moon Ice Cream
Pasty

Parks & Museums

For a complete list of Wisconsin State and National Parks & Historic Sites visit dnr.wi.gov and www.nps.gov. Check out a few of the featured sites around the state below.

Ice Age National Scenic Trail – Madison

https://www.nps.gov/iatr/index.htm

Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway – Saint Croix Falls

Big Foot Beach State Park – Lake Geneva

Copper Falls State Park – Mellen

High Cliff State Park – Sherwood

Natural Bridge State Park – North Freedom

Whitefish Dunes State Park – Sturgeon Bay

Peshtigo State Forest – Crivitz

Friendship State Trail – Hilbert

Circus World Museum – Baraboo

Wisconsin Maritime Museum – Manitowoc