Cedar Grove and Oostburg: Dutch Settlements in Southern Sheboygan County
In the far southern part of Sheboygan County, two villages—Cedar Grove and Oostburg—trace their roots to Dutch immigrants who arrived in the mid-19th century. Fleeing religious and economic upheaval in the Netherlands, many Dutch families sought a new life in America. A group led by Rev. Pieter Zonne purchased land about 20 miles south of Sheboygan in 1847, establishing a community that would grow into Cedar Grove and Oostburg.
The Dutch Immigration and Early Settlements
The Dutch settlers, many of whom came through Sheboygan, were part of a larger wave of European immigrants who sought refuge and opportunity in the United States. Some of these immigrants were even survivors of the Phoenix ship disaster, a tragic event that claimed the lives of many Dutch emigrants off the coast of Sheboygan in 1847.
The settlers quickly established farms, building the foundation for two distinctive villages. Cedar Grove was platted in 1849, and Oostburg soon followed. These communities remained deeply connected to their Dutch heritage, with early churches conducting services in Dutch, and farming serving as the backbone of the local economy. Initially focused on wheat farming, these villages later embraced dairy farming, which became central to the area’s agricultural identity.
Economic Growth and Industrial Development
By the late 19th century, Oostburg began to diversify its economy. The village saw the establishment of small industries such as a flour mill and a canning factory, marking the beginning of the area’s small-scale industrial development. Agriculture continued to thrive, but the addition of these businesses helped to stabilize the local economy and give the village a more varied industrial base.
The Interurban Electric Railway: Connecting Communities
One interesting aspect of the growth of Cedar Grove and Oostburg was their connection to Sheboygan and Milwaukee through an interurban electric railway. By the early 1900s, the Milwaukee Northern interurban line provided hourly passenger service between these villages and the larger cities. This electric railway allowed farmers to easily ship their products to Sheboygan and Milwaukee, and it also provided residents with reliable transportation for business and leisure. The interurban line helped Cedar Grove and Oostburg become more connected to the broader region, easing the flow of goods and people.
However, with the rise of highway travel in the mid-20th century, the interurban railway eventually ceased operation, and car travel became the dominant mode of transportation.
Celebrating Dutch Heritage Today
Both Cedar Grove and Oostburg proudly celebrate their Dutch heritage to this day. Cedar Grove hosts an annual Holland Fest, where locals and visitors can enjoy Dutch-inspired activities, food, and music. The towns continue to embrace their roots, and remnants of the original Dutch settlements—such as old wooden barns and cemeteries—can still be visited, offering a glimpse into the past and the enduring legacy of the Dutch immigrants who shaped these communities.
Conclusion
Cedar Grove and Oostburg stand as testaments to the Dutch settlers who brought their culture, agriculture, and hard work to southern Sheboygan County in the 1840s. These villages grew from small farming communities into vibrant towns with deep agricultural traditions and a rich cultural heritage. Today, both Cedar Grove and Oostburg continue to honor their past while embracing modern development, making them integral parts of Sheboygan County’s unique history.
