Maple & Main

Deer Here

Posted by Curt Otto on May 4, 2010

Over the past few years, I have seen a number of strange things in downtown Waukesha.

Some of them I have written blogs about, like the time a car drove into the Fox River or the year we had a little flooding problem downtown.

Others I have simply chosen to keep to myself.

It’s always interesting in this city, and this morning was another reminder of just how diverse downtown Waukesha can be.

Just after 5AM today, I was walking toward the South Street parking ramp (I operate the Business Improvement District street sweeper in the morning). As I approached the garage, I heard what sounded like hoof steps on pavement.

Budweiser Clydesdales? New Jersey Devil?

Neither.

Much to my surprise, a deer emerged from the driveway of the Rotunda Building and stepped into the street.

We both startled one another and after a few seconds of staring at each other, she darted off behind the building and disappeared down Gaspar Street.

I have seen fox by the river, heron fishing the dam, and raccoons eating my trash. Two acquaintances of mine even once told me they saw a werewolf behind a bar on Clinton Avenue. I later found out they were in the bar on Clinton for many an hour before the sighting so I doubt the accuracy of that one.

However, I have never seen deer, especially on South Street. That area isn’t exactly known for its lush vegetation and thick tree line.

Perhaps she came down to check out the neat little boutiques and art galleries. Or maybe she heard about some of the great new restaurants and such.

Whatever the reason, I hope she enjoyed her visit.

And for those of you who say that downtown Waukesha is too confusing to navigate-seriously, if a deer can do it, you can too.

So add another reason to visit downtown to the list of many nice things offered here.

Downtown Waukesha: a great place to eat, shop, live, work, play, and view wildlife.

No hunting please.