Shows
Discovering the NorthwoodsAn Outing of Waukesha Men in the Wilds of WisconsinToday’s episode takes us all the way back to 1900, when a group of seven friends from Waukesha decided they needed a break from everyday life and headed north. They weren’t going to a resort, or a guided tour, or anything remotely convenient. They were determined to find lakes so remote they basically didn’t have names yet. Think: no roads, barely a trail, everything hauled in by canoe or on foot.It sounded great… until the luggage went missing, the blankets turned out to be wildly insufficient, and a two-week wilderness escape slowly turned into a comedy of weather...
2025-12-1627 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsWoods and Water: Bob Becker's Adventures in the NorthwoodsIn this episode, I will cover five articles from Bob Becker's Woods and Water series that explore the Northwoods in the 1920s. Bob Becker was a very influential media figure during the rise of radio in the 1930s. He consistently gave high endorsements of the Northwoods on a national scale and showcased its beauty and wonders across the country through the media.
2025-11-0521 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsBy and LargeBy and Large is a story of a canoe voyage aboard a “Belle Isle” Special – Described in a 1910 advertisement as “The Triumph of the canoe builder’s art. Swift, Safe, Strong, Durable. Easy to paddle, comfortable, graceful.” From photographing timber wolves to baking pickerel over open coals, dodging rocks in roaring rapids, and drifting silently past deer on moonlit waters, this story isn't just about travel — it’s about immersion. Into solitude. Into wildness. Into a different way of moving through the world, but all under the guise of an advertisement for an excellent canoe. This article was published in the Press of Atl...
2025-08-2013 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsRecalling the Day with the PikeWelcome to Discovering the Northwoods from the Manitowish Waters Historical Society. In this episode, we turn back to August 1917, when Omaha journalist Sammy Griswold recounted a vivid day spent alone at Manitowish Falls. What began as a fishing trip quickly became a profound encounter with the Northwoods—where the roar of the falls, the solitude of the forest, and the thrill of catching thirty-one pike came together in an unforgettable experience. Through the voice of Sarah Krembs, we bring this remarkable story to life.
2025-07-0617 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsInterview with Maribeth KolarchekMaribeth Kolarchek is a lifelong Manitowish Waters resident, living on Nazdar Drive right next to her brother Steve, adjacent to Little Bohemia. Little Bohemia and the grounds are very familiar to Marybeth and Steve, as they grew up there while mom cooked at Little Bow and dad tended bar as well as the grounds. Marybeth sat down with Frank DeLeonardi from the Manitowish Waters Historical Society to share her history and memories on March 11, 2025, in her home.
2025-05-2048 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsThe Sportsman Tourist in the Muskellunge CountryIn this episode, we're revisiting a fascinating article from Forest and Stream Magazine, published in 1892. Richard Gear Hobbs takes us on a fishing trip to the Northwoods, offering a unique snapshot of late 19th-century life in America's wilderness. From fishing on the Manitowish River to encountering the hardy lumbermen of the region, Hobbs' account provides a rich window into the outdoor culture and the challenges of the time. From the wonderful narration of Sara Krembs, we will dive into this historical account and explore what these experiences can teach us about the past.
2024-12-2319 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsAdventures in ConservationThrough the help of three different documents, this episode details the adventures of Glyn Bud Roberts during his time in Conservation highlighting the wonders and excitement of the Northwoods.
2024-11-2717 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsThey Used the RodOn today's episode, we revisit August 1894, a time when two teachers, Edward Dvorak and Samuel Kayzer, sought refuge from the confines of city life in the Wisconsin wilderness. Their journey to the Northwoods was not just an escape, but a quest for adventure, marked by fishing, hunting, and the company of the enigmatic guide, Bob Loveless. Through their experiences, we’ll explore their remarkable expedition, filled with challenges, unexpected encounters, and the profound beauty of the natural world.
2024-10-2909 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsBig Developments Around Rest LakeToday, we journey back in time to the eve of the Great Depression, 1928, to explore the remarkable evolution of Rest Lake, a historical gem nestled in the northern part of Vilas County, southwest of Hurley. This article helps uncover the layers of history behind these modern developments such as the Northern Lights Hotel, Tower Tea Room, and Schroeder's bakery and reflects how the past and present come together to offer an enriched experience for all who visit. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about how the Northwoods has evolved, this episode promises to shed light on the in...
2024-09-3007 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsI Saw Conservation GrowThe document for this episode by Harry Kozel was recently acquired by the Manitowish Waters Historical Society. This 70 year old document looks back to area conservation into the late 19th and early 20th century. I saw Conservation Grow by Harry Kozel explores this time through stories from the Old Timers.
2024-07-2213 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsMy Memories of Yesteryear: Life on Island Lake In the Early Days Part II.The following two episodes explore numerous stories written by John LaFave about life in the Northwoods in the order presented in My Memories of Yesteryear: Life on Island Lake In the Early Days. Sarah Krembs from the Frank B. Koller Memorial Library is the narrator for Part I and Part II.
2024-05-3049 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsMy Memories of Yesteryear: Life on Island Lake In the Early Days Part I.The following two episodes explore numerous stories written by John LaFave about life in the Northwoods in the order presented in My Memories of Yesteryear: Life on Island Lake In the Early Days. Sarah Krembs from the Frank B. Koller Memorial Library is the narrator for Part I and Part II.
2024-05-2351 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsJames Duane Doty Journal of 1820 Part II.This episode covers the 1820 journal of James Duane Doty, secretary attached to the 1820 Lewis Cass expedition exploring the western portions of Michigan Territory. Territorial Governor Cass had many objectives on his 1820 expedition, including delivering some of the earliest Northwoods reconnaissance. The accuracy of the map and narrative are limited, and should only be considered a baseline for poor early government knowledge of the Northwoods.
2024-04-2518 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsJames Duane Doty Journal of 1820 Part I.This episode covers the 1820 journal of James Duane Doty, secretary attached to the 1820 Lewis Cass expedition exploring the western portions of Michigan Territory. Territorial Governor Cass had many objectives on his 1820 expedition, including delivering some of the earliest Northwoods reconnaissance. The accuracy of the map and narrative are limited, and should only be considered a baseline for poor early government knowledge of the Northwoods.
2024-03-2920 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsManitowoc ClubOn this episode, we explore the history and origins of the Manitowoc Club. This is a brief history of the Manitowoc club located on Big Lake Vilas County, Wisconsin, as told by George T. Gill, on July 4 1960. In 1935, George T. Gill interviewed Mr. Louis Kuntz about the founding and background of the Manitowoc Club.
2024-02-0511 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsMargaret Henning InterviewOn today's episode, we explore Keith Island which is an important part of Big Lake. As mentioned in the last episode on France C. Badger, A.S. Badger of Chicago owned the Keego Estate on Big Lake, and it is believed he told Carl Keith about the island, as both Badger and Keith were from Kenilworth, Illinois. In 1908, Carl and Cornelia Keith purchased the island for a summer home for their family. In December of 2018, Kay Krans interviewed Margaret Larsen Henning a member of the Keith family of Big Lake. As a piece of local history, the interview transcript is...
2024-01-0908 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsFrances C. BadgerWe would like to introduce an episode on Frances C. Badger from the handwritten notes on the Keego Lodge alongside newspaper articles from the Lakeland Times in 1920. Kay Krans brings this story to life as the narrator on today's episode.
2023-12-1512 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsJournals of A.B. GrayOn this episode, Geologist A. B. Gray travels from Lake Superior into what will become Manitowish Waters in 1846. His map and journal chronicle Chief White Thunder and Cross Lake, which is likely Rest Lake. His trip moves from LaPointe over the Flambeau Trail to the Turtle Portage in Mercer, Wisconsin. Cross Lake, Trout Lake, White Deer Lake, today White Birch Lake, Lac Vieux Desert, and Lake Superior are remarkably documented with his map and journal. We choose to include this portion of Gray’s journal to give early context and insights into what becomes Wisconsin’s Northwoods. In our episode, we c...
2023-11-2628 minDiscovering the NorthwoodsJournals of A.B. Gray, 1846On this episode, Geologist A. B. Gray traveled from Lake Superior into what will become Manitowish Waters in 1846. His map and journal chronicle Chief White Thunder and Cross Lake, which is likely Rest Lake. His trip moves from LaPointe over the Flambeau Trail to the Turtle Portage in Mercer, Wisconsin. Cross Lake, Trout Lake, White Deer Lake, today White Birch Lake, Lac Vieux Desert, and Lake Superior are remarkably documented with his map and journal. We choose to include this portion of Gray’s journal to give early context and insights into what becomes Wisconsin’s Northwoods. We begin with A.B...
2023-11-2028 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsThe Great NorthwoodsOn this episode of Discovering the Northwoods, we travel to Kayes Island through the perspective of E.W.H. of Atchison, Kansas. In these two articles, we learn of great hotel resorts, hiking trips, and tours throughout the Great Northwoods.
2023-10-0326 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsThe Hotel World: Koerner's Spider Lake ResortThis episode explores the article titled, "Good Example of Summer Resort Advertising," published by The Hotel World: The Hotel and Travelers Journal on January 1st, 1921. In this edition, the Koerner's Spider Lake Resort is detailed in all its glory as a great place for rest and relaxation. This episode is read by me, Brenna Reilley.
2023-07-0710 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsThe Hotel World: Koerner’s Spider Lake ResortWe would like to introduce the article titled, "Good Example of Summer Resort Advertising," published by The Hotel World: The Hotel and Travelers Journal on January 1st, 1921. This episode spotlights the resort as the ideal place for rest, recreation, and sport.
2023-06-2710 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsRobert Loveless Journal Part III.We would like to introduce the final part of the amazing journal, transcribed exactly from the written work of Robert Loveless, who resided on Alder Lake and was one of the founding pioneers of the Manitowish Waters community. Robert Loveless has a comprehensive journal of his hunting, trapping, guiding, and caretaking from the earliest days of Manitowish Waters. His colorful stories, rich details, and geographic references allow this journal to come to life, providing important context to life at the turn of the 20th century in Manitowish Waters.
2023-05-3120 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsRobert Loveless Journal Part II.We would like to introduce Part II. of the amazing journal, transcribed exactly from the written work of Robert Loveless, who resided on Alder Lake and was one of the founding pioneers of the Manitowish Waters community. Robert Loveless has a comprehensive journal of his hunting, trapping, guiding, and caretaking from the earliest days of Manitowish Waters. His colorful stories, rich details, and geographic references allow this journal to come to life, providing important context to life at the turn of the 20th century in Manitowish Waters.
2023-04-2817 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsThe Robert Loveless Journal Part I.We would like to introduce Part I. of the amazing journal, transcribed exactly from the written work of Robert Loveless, who resided on Alder Lake and was one of the founding pioneers of the Manitowish Waters community. Robert Loveless has a comprehensive journal of his hunting, trapping, guiding, and caretaking from the earliest days of Manitowish Waters. His colorful stories, rich details, and geographic references allow this journal to come to life, providing important context to life at the turn of the 20th century in Manitowish Waters.
2023-04-0119 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsThe Murder at Big LakeWe would like to introduce a story of The Murder of Big Lake read by Kay Krans. In this thrilling story, we hear from multiple perspectives - first-hand accounts, letters, and newspapers.
2023-01-3012 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsLargest Log Drive Saved by Camp CookWe would like to introduce a story from the "Tales of a River" series titled Largest Log Drive Saved by Camp Cook. The article was originally published in the Chippewa Herald-Telegram on February 3rd, 1997. Find out how a camp cook saved the day by listening to the men and changing the menu!
2022-11-2307 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsFelix the MuskieIn this short episode, we explore the story of a domesticated muskellunge named Felix on Little Star Lake. The two articles recount the life and legacy of Felix as a small-town celebrity in the 1930s.
2022-10-2707 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsLottie Rintelman Journal on Manitowish WatersIn this episode of Discovering the Northwoods, local resident Lottie Rintelman recounts her experiences and life in Manitowish Waters in 1958. Listen to learn all about the history of the Devine Family, one of the pioneers of the Manitowish Waters.
2022-09-2038 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsIn Island Lake and Other Populous Bodies of Wisconsin WatersJ.J. Marlett recounts his fishing adventures of a group from Evansville in Manitowish Waters and surrounding Northwoods lakes in 1895. The story highlights the many presumptions and rumors about the Northwoods such as lumber camp lewdness and the founders of resorts.
2022-08-2320 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsThe Queen of the Manitowish: Fishing Grounds of Island LakeIn the final episode of the Outer's Recreation Fishing Series, we explore Island Lake from the many tales and travels of E. C. Potter. This article from August of 1918 reflects on the picturesque scenery of Island Lake and the Manitowish waters.
2022-07-1821 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsIn Stone, Mud, and Clear LakesIn this episode of the Outer's Recreation Fishing Series, we explore Stone, Mud, and Clear Lakes through the eyes of our author E. C. Potter. This article from July of 1918 reflects on the accuracies of maps and land surveys while sharing an exciting story of a great fishing adventure.
2022-06-3020 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsThe Center of the Manitowish Chain: Spider Lake Beds and BarsThis episode is the third in the fishing series of the Outers' Recreation Magazine by E. C. Potter. The Center of the Manitowish Chain: Spider Lake Beds and Bars is a detailed guide to the best locations for fishing, camping, and even dishwashing techniques!
2022-06-1515 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsIn Dam, Sturgeon, and Benson LakesThis episode is the second in the fishing series of the Outers' Recreation Magazine by E. C. Potter. In Dam, Sturgeon, and Benson Lakes is a detailed guide to the best locations for fishing, camping, and enjoyment.
2022-05-2723 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsThe Fishing Grounds of Rest LakeThis episode is the first in the fishing series of the Outers' Recreation Magazine. The Fishing Grounds of Rest Lakes is a detailed guide to the best locations for fishing, camping, and enjoyment.
2022-04-2816 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsWoodcraftWoodcraft is from the original publication of the Year Book of the Public Museum of the City of Milwaukee in 1921 by Huron H. Smith. This episode will explain the early days of Camp Manitowish and a canoe trip to Lac De Flambeau read by Bill Zuiker.
2022-03-2518 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsBirching in the Big Woods Part IV.This is the final story is Birching in the Big Woods series by G. O. Shields. The original source is from the February 1907 publication of Shields' Magazine. Listen to find out what happens on his fishing trip through snowstorms and dangerous creeks with E. M. Clark through Northern Wisconsin.
2022-02-2814 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsBirching in the Big Woods Part III.This story is Birching in the Big Woods Part III. by G. O. Shields. The original source is from the January 1907 publication of Shields' Magazine. Listen to find out what happens on his fishing trip through creeks full of beavers and dangerous swamps with E. M. Clark through Northern Wisconsin.
2022-01-2408 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsBirching in the Big Woods Part II.This story is Birching in the Big Woods Part II. by G. O. Shields. The original source is from the December 1906 publication of Shields' Magazine. Listen to find out what happens on his fishing trip through a rough storm with E. M. Clark through Northern Wisconsin.
2021-12-2010 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsBirching in the Big Woods Part I.This story is Birching in the Big Woods Part I. by G. O. Shields. The original source is from the November 1906 publication of Shields' Magazine. Listen to find out what happens on his fishing trip with E. M. Clarkt through Northern Wisconsin.
2021-11-2318 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsWelcome to Discovering the NorthwoodsThe Manitowish Waters Historical Society is pleased to welcome you to our podcast, Discovering the Northwoods.
2021-09-2402 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsA Real Hot Lynx StoryThis story follows Fay L. Buck's experience with a lynx. Buck is a well-known and experienced guide from the Manitowish Waters Area. The Forest and Stream Magazine published this story in 1989 as a truthful tale of lynxes. Listen to find out what happens when Fay Buck comes face to face with a lynx while berry picking.
2021-08-1006 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsInto the Heart of the Wild Woods Part II.In this episode, we follow a guided fishing and hunting trip in the Manitowish Waters area titled "Into the Heart of the Wild Woods Part II." by Paul Tarbell and read by Bill Zuicker. This document was originally published in the journal, Forest and Stream June 9th, 1900. Follow along to hear the 1899 journey through the Manitowish Waters area.
2021-08-0222 min
Discovering the NorthwoodsInto the Heart of the Wild Woods Part. IIn this episode, we follow a guided fishing and hunting trip in the Manitowish Waters area titled "Into the Heart of the Wild Woods Part I." by Paul Tarbell and read by Bill Zuicker. This document was originally published in the journal, Forest and Stream June 9th, 1900. Follow along to hear the 1899 journey through the Manitowish Waters area.
2021-07-1334 min
Consolation PrizeEpisode 10: Worthy of NoticeIn today’s episode, we take a look at some people connected to the consular service who are worthy of notice: the women. We’re telling the story of three women, whose stories range from the very conventional to the very unconventional (at least by the standards of the time). Each of these women contributed something significant to the history of the U.S. consular service, and each deserves to have her story told. Producers Deepthi Murali, Megan Brett, and Brenna Reilley bring us their stories, just in time to close out Women’s History Month. Showno...
2021-03-3038 min