What Life Is Like On The Tiny Island In Wisconsin With No Cars
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Laura
Author
Cars are a huge part of our modern life – there’s no escaping that. Very rarely do we run across any place where cars are completely absent. But just off of the coast of Door County, there’s a sweet little island where time seems to have stopped decades ago…and there are no cars to be seen.
A short but scenic ride takes you to the shores of Rock Island, which encompasses just 912 acres.
It was inhabited by Native Americans for thousands of years before European explorers arrived. This is where European settlers set up their first permanent village on the Door peninsula.
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It looks today much like it did then, with lovely beaches, beautiful flora...and absolutely no cars. No motorized transportation of any type is allowed on the island. Even bikes are forbidden. It's all in an effort to keep this special place beautiful, peaceful, and close to nature.
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The Potawatomi Lighthouse was built on the island in 1863, and today it still stands as the oldest lighthouse in Wisconsin. In fact, it's the oldest lighthouse on all of Lake Michigan. It no longer operates, but it does house historic items that tell the lighthouse's story.
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In 1910, Chester Thordarson purchased the island to build an elegant summer estate. Following his death in 1945, Thordarson's heirs sold his land and property to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources in 1965. The man who loved this island so much is still there, buried in a small cemetery. Today, his magnificent boathouse contains information and artifacts related to the history of the island.
The shoreline is so quiet and peaceful that it almost feels like going back in time. Hiking paths criss-cross the island and lead through lush vegetation. The greatest thing about the trails is that you never have to worry about moving aside for cyclists.
With no cars, no towns, and no permanent residents, Rock Island might actually be the most peaceful place in Wisconsin. You can easily traverse the entire island by foot, breathing in the sweet, clean air and tuning your ear to the sounds of nature.
In some of the many rock formations on the island, you'll find mysterious carvings. They were made by the men who worked on the island constructing Thordarson's buildings. Their fun distraction is now our treasure hunt. Can you find the carvings when you visit?
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There are, of course, no electrical hookups and no modern facilities. But what you give up in convenience you gain in unforgettable experiences. You can bring your dogs along, too, as long as they remain leashed.
The lack of cars and the untamed natural beauty of Rock Island State Park have made it a popular getaway. It is truly a place where you can unwind and enjoy the simple joys of nature.
Are you as in love with Wisconsin’s islands as we are? Washington Island is another place to spend a perfect afternoon – even if it does allow cars..
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