Friday, May 14, 2021

Explore Waupun

 

I think most people when you mention Waupun, think of correctional facilities.  It is home to two with one that makes the license plates for the state.  But the city has so much more.    

Waupun has now gotten the name the City of Sculpture.   Located in varies locations though out the city you will find eight bronze sculptures.   These sculptures were either commissioned or created by Clarence Shaler and donated to the city of Waupun.   The most famous is The End of the Trail by James Earl Fraser that depicts the plight of the American Indian.   


It is a powerful piece as are all the sculptures.  For a complete list of the sculptures and their locations visit the attached link.    https://www.cityofwaupun.org/visitors/page/city-sculpture

If you want to experience the natural beauty of the area a visit to Horicon Marsh is a must.   One of the last trips I took with my Ladies before the world shut down, was a boat tour of the march.    If you want to learn the history of the area. enjoy a beautiful waterway, and see abundant wild life – a tour is ideal.  For those who like to explore on foot, there are many trails available

Close to the site for the boat tour (in fact across the street), is a John Deere tractor factory.   Nothing more iconic than those green and gold lawn machines.   They do offer tours but you need to call ahead for availability. 

Cannot write about a city without recommending good eats.   Waupun has the usual chains, but you know me I go for the local flair.  The Other Bar on Main Street is nothing to look at, but man their food is delicious.    Lots of regular bar food but surprises as well.  Their wraps, homemade chips and dipping sauce, and burgers are amazing.   They offer daily specials as well and have not had a bad one yet.  

If you do not like the ambiance of the interior – which is none, I suggest getting your order to go and head a couple blocks off main street to Shaler Park (named after Clarence Shaler). The address is 400 N. Madison St.  Lovely park along a water way complete with a small water fall, great landscaping, cute pagoda, and The End of the Trail sculpture. 

Be sure to take time to explore Waupun – you will enjoy.