Patterson's Manitowish River Resort

Along the banks of the Manitowish River on Bensen Lake, J.W. Patterson’s Manitowish River Resort was in operation from 1946 until 1961. Tax records from Manitowish Water’s archives state that Patterson owned two boats, suggesting the resort was smaller than active nearby resorts such as Tichy’s Knotty Pine and Jones’ Lakewood Lodge.

This resort was advertised in The Chicago Tribune. It was told that those who found this place would have fun, rest and great fishing. There was a lodge with rooms and cottages, and the resort ran on the American Plan. The cuisine was considered just plain good old fashioned home cooking. The Patterson family would close down the resort each fall and return to their home in Chicago.

The site of Patterson's Manitowish River Resort is located on private property, which should be respected by all travelers to Benson Lake and the Manitowish River.

The Chicago Tribune, (Chicago, Illinois), (1948, June 27)

John Patterson. “Manitowish River Resort.” Manitowish Waters Chamber of Commerce Booklet, 1957