Jon Helminiak

Land O' Lakes Jon Helminiak

Land O' Lakes, Wisconsin, is surrounded by more freshwater than any small town in America. Originally named State Line because it straddled the border of Wisconsin and upper Michigan, Land O' Lakes quickly became a premier vacation destination because of its wilderness beauty. Resorts built from local timber, like the famous Gateway, attracted celebrities including Dwight Eisenhower and Lawrence Welk. In 1946, Stevens Point-based North Central Airlines inaugurated seasonal flights to Land O' Lakes, complementing railroad service by the Chicago and North Western Railway. The word had spread: for the best north woods entertainment, recreation, and beauty, head to Land O' Lakes, "at the top of Wisconsin." This book features the best images available from the Land O' Lakes Historical Society to depict the region's early pioneers, resorts, and businesses.