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Ridgeland
Where Old Friends Meet
Share Your Memories
Village of Ridgeland History
Ridgeland, Wisconsin, is a charming village located in northern Dunn County with a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1900 by George M Huss, President of the Ridgeland Land Company. Ridgeland was established as a community hub for local farmers and settlers, Ridgeland quickly grew while maintaining its small-town charm. A significant part of its history includes the Blueberry Line, a rail line that once connected the village to broader markets and communities. From its early days of logging and agriculture to the present, Ridgeland's history is a testament to the resilience and dedication of its people, shaping it into the welcoming community it is today.
View of Ridgeland around 1912 taken from behind Security Bank. Courtesy of Mabel Vaher
Perhaps the single most important element in the founding of Ridgeland was the construction of the railroad. The Blueberry Line, connecting Ridgeland to Barron, was completed in 1900. Initially envisioned by the planners of the Rice Lake, Dallas, and Menomonie Railway as a bridge route to Menomonie, these plans unfortunately did not materialize, making Ridgeland the end of the line. Despite this, businesses in Ridgeland grew rapidly due to the Blueberry Line. At its peak, the line was pulling as many as 65 cars, transporting livestock, potatoes, and large quantities of grain. The Blueberry Line played a crucial role in the economic development of Ridgeland, fostering significant growth in the village.
Blueberry Line
Scenes from Ridgeland: A Glimpse in Time
Scenes from Ridgeland: A Glimpse in Time
Do you have old photos to share?
If you or someone you know would like to share your memories and add to the historic resources that we have collected for this web page or the Facebook page please contact Lon Christoperson or Tom Lee.
Contacts:
Lon Chrisopherson
lonchristopherson1@gmail.com
Tom Lee
tlee673024@aol.com
Local Historical Resources
Village of Ridgeland
Founded 1900
Celebrating 124 years of Family and Community
The view of Diamond St. from where the bank currently sits facing north
Village Incorporation in 1921
The village of Ridgeland was incorporated in 1921 and has seen many improvements over the years, including the installation of electricity in the 1920s, the construction of sidewalks by a WPA project in 1935, the building of the fire hall in 1953, and the establishment of a sanitary sewer plant in 1957.
One of the first stores in Ridgeland. First Post Office was in the back of the store.
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