The Johnson House is the oldest building in Three Lakes and so named for the Johnson family, its former residents.
Peter Vance and his Ojibwe wife Sarah were among the first pioneer families to settle in what ultimately became Manitowish Waters. Changing the name of Dam Lake to Vance Lake, honors the site of their homestead and their historic contributions. Peter Vance claimed to have traveled up the Chippewa River in 1884 from Menominee, Wisconsin to the Manitowish chain of lakes. Peter Vance worked as a timber cruiser, trapper, guide and operated an early lodge until 1903. Sarah Vance maintained strong connections to her Ojibwe heritage and prove to be a strong partner for Peter. She was noted for sharing Ojibwe culture. Local residents and visitors were eager to buy her traditional Ojibwe goods. To view the site of the Vance Homestead, the dock in front of Angler's restaurant provides a great view from afar. Those who wish a closer view should put in at the canoe landing below the Pea Patch, and paddle into Vance Lake. The site of Peter and Sarah Vance's homestead is located on private property. Private property should be respected by all travelers to Vance Lake.
Croatian immigration to the United States began 1900 and accelerated after World War I. Many of those coming to Eagle River moved from another location in The United States. They were attracted by advertisement for farm land, which was in reality cutover logging land with few or no improvements. They invested life savings and met with fields of stumps and sandy soil. This is a story of survival and determination.
This Tour is a Walking Tour.
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Welcome to the Northern Wisconsin Heritage Council's Historic Pioneers Clio Tour. Clio allows you to explore fun and historic destination using any digital device. Just click on an entry and explore our amazing heritage. Please enjoy all the themed tours and join us in preserving our history for future generations.
