1901 Map of Denzer

About this map

Baraboo River meanders through the northern townships of Excelsior and Baraboo, anchoring a landscape defined by sharp elevation changes and early Wisconsin rail transport. The Chicago and Northwestern railroad tracks follow the river valley, serving the growing settlements of Ableman and North Freedom. To the south, the terrain becomes increasingly complex as the East Branch Honey Creek and North Branch Honey Creek carve through the townships of Honey Creek and Troy. This late 19th-century survey captures several small family-named crossroads and rural hubs, including Pains Corners, Kings Corners, and Witwen, which served the surrounding agricultural community. Geologic landmarks like the striking Tower Rock and the peculiar Pewits Nest stand out amidst the drainage patterns of Seeley Creek and Otter Creek, marking a period before modern highway expansion altered these local valley corridors.