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Approximately 15 minutes south of
the Iowa County seat, Dodgeville, you'll find the city "where Wisconsin
began." Welcome to one of the state's oldest communities: welcome to
Mineral Point.
Founded in 1857, Mineral Point is one of
Wisconsin's most historic communities. It was the capital of Wisconsin
Territory before that honor fell to Madison and it is the first city in
the state to be listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
When you walk the streets of this charming Southwest Wisconsin town,
you'll feel as though you were stepping back in time.
The
miners' original log cabins are still here, as is an eclectic
collection of Cornish limestone and sandstone houses, Craftsman-style
bungalows and ornate Victorian mansions. Mineral Point is a history
buff's dream come true.
The city is also known for being a haven for
artists and art lovers. Mineral Point is home to a community of
artists, almost half a dozen of whom maintain studios in the downtown
district. Every fall, folks get the chance to see the artists at work
during the Fall Art Tour, a nationally-recognized three-day tour that
encompasses not just Mineral Point, but also Baraboo, Spring Green and
Dodgeville.
Apart from its art and architecture, one of Mineral
Point's biggest draws is its surrounding scenery. It has been awarded
one of America's dozen distinctive destinations by the National Trust
for Historic Preservation®. Its views of a forested, rolling landscape
characterized by sparkling streams, fertile farmlands and rocky
outcroppings are priceless. That outdoor recreation is a favorite
pastime here is not surprising.
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