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Exploring the Basswood Island quarry on skis
Basswood Island (Wiigobiish-minis) is just over a mile out from the Bayfield Peninsula. Beyond its banks of sandstone and red clay you will discover evidence of logging, farming and brownstone quarries dating back to 1869. Crews used steam drills and derricks to cut and move the enormous, heavy stone blocks, destined for places like the current National Park Service headquarters in Bayfield and the Milwaukee County’s courthouse.
While only accessable by boat in summer, you can make the trip on cross country skis when winter conditions are right. Friends board member Neil Howk and friend Gerry Miller ventured out on a perfect winter day. Click the slideshow to enjoy their photos and Neil’s poetic description of their adventure.
Last week was a throwback to the days of old,
When January temperatures got very very cold.
With the mercury down below zero nearly every night,
An ice bridge formed to the islands, much to my delight.
The presence of ice fishermen at Basswood Island told an interesting story.
The ice was now thick enough to ski to the Basswood Island Quarry.
The frozen lake was totally covered with a layer of powdery snow.
When the sun broke through the clouds the icy crystals were aglow.
On the way to Basswood Island we saw many fishing shacks.
Along the edge of Basswood Island we saw sets of coyote tracks.
The shoreline of the island had colorful rocks and interesting ledges.
A number of hearty pine trees grew along the island’s edges.
An opening in the trees marked the former location of the quarry dock.
Walking to the quarry we passed a massive brownstone block.
We took the trail that led to the top of the quarry wall.
Standing in the quarry opening made us feel kind of small.
Cutting stone from island bedrock was once big business that didn’t last.
Now we marvel at the beauty in these shadows of the past.
Neil Howk began working as a park ranger/interpreter for the National Park Service in 1978. He worked at a number of different parks over the years and served as the assistant chief of interpretation at Apostle Islands National Lakeshore from 1993-2016. He now serves as a board member of Friends of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.
Additional topics related to this article | Basswood Island | Cultural History | Interpretation | Visitor Stories
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