Wade House (Greenbush): A Glimpse into 19th-Century Travel and Frontier Hospitality
The Wade House, located in Greenbush, Wisconsin, is a state historic site that offers visitors a fascinating journey back to the mid-1800s. Built between 1847 and 1851 by Sylvanus and Betsey Wade, the Wade House was once a large stagecoach inn situated along the plank road that connected Sheboygan and Fond du Lac. Before the arrival of railroads, this plank toll road, which traversed marshes and hills, was a critical route for travelers. The Wade House provided much-needed meals and lodging to weary stagecoach passengers, making it an essential stop on the frontier.
A Landmark of Transportation and Hospitality
In the mid-1800s, the Wade House served not just as an inn, but as a hub of hospitality for those journeying through Sheboygan County. Travelers on the plank road would stop here for rest, food, and shelter, making the Wade House a vital part of the region’s transportation network. The building’s size and amenities were a testament to the importance of the inn in accommodating those traveling through a frontier landscape.
Today, the Wade House stands as a beautifully restored inn, offering a glimpse into the past as part of an open-air museum. Visitors can explore the inn and its grounds, experiencing what it would have been like for travelers during the mid-1800s. The site is not just a monument to the past but also a celebration of the community’s early development, driven by the need for transportation and hospitality along the toll roads.
Herrling Sawmill and Wesley Jung Carriage Museum
In addition to the Wade House itself, the site features the Herrling Sawmill, a working water-powered sawmill that demonstrates the vital role of industry and craftsmanship in Sheboygan County’s early economy. Visitors can watch as lumber is still cut using the same water-powered methods that were employed in the 19th century.
The Wesley Jung Carriage Museum, another highlight of the Wade House, houses Wisconsin’s largest collection of horse-drawn carriages. This collection provides insight into the transportation methods of the time, showcasing the innovation and craftsmanship that were necessary for frontier life.
A Monument to Sheboygan County’s Early Development
The Wade House is an important landmark that illustrates the critical role of transportation and hospitality in Sheboygan County’s early development. It serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by travelers on the frontier and the ingenuity of those who provided the services and infrastructure necessary to support a growing region. Today, the Wade House continues to be a key site for learning about Sheboygan County’s rich history and the impact of transportation in shaping the community’s growth.
