Six Points Flashback

Shortly after the Chicago & Northwestern Railroad built its line through in 1881, the village of Dousman came into existence. The building of the early railroads meant prosperity and, as they found out across the state, skilled craftsman and merchants soon opened businesses to serve the needs of the outlying communities. By the end of 1882, businesses had included: a hotel, Cassidy's saloon, Thomas's store, the post office, Hardell's grain elevator and lumber yard, a blacksmith and wagon shop.

The new village sportingly referred to by some as "Bullfrog Station" because of the surrounding bogs and marshes, was characteristic of the hundreds of Wisconsin "railroad villages" that sprang up during the 19th century. It was formerly named "Dousman" in honor of Talbot C. Dousman, who is considered the first settler in the Town of Ottawa - his claim dating to 1837.

Located in the midst of a dairy and farming community, Dousman prospered, as it does today. Also of importance after the turn of the century was the state's first fish hatchery, known as the "Trout Pond," and the marl beds located south of the village.

Waukesha County Museum's Behind the Vault: Treasures from the County Museum Collection opens Feb. 28. WCM is open Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and during special programs. For more information visit www.waukeshacountymuseum.org, call (262) 521-2859, or look for them on Facebook and Twitter.