From Chippewa Falls we drove to Cassville, WI over the bumpiest roads I've encountered so far on this trip! Avoid WI 61 if at all possible! We followed our trusty GPS over winding country roads (I thought we'd never get there!) and finally called the Whitetail Bluff Campground to ensure that we were indeed on the right road. The campground is in the middle of farm country and feels like it's in the middle of nowhere. The campground told us an easier way to get to Fennimore to the railroad museum there, so after a muffin in Lancaster, we arrived at the Fennimore Railroad and Historical Society Museum. The museum tells the story of the dinky, the narrow gauge train that ran the 16 mile track between Fennimore and Woodman. On the grounds sits a 1907 Davenport 2-6-0 locomotive similar in appearance and size as the Dinky. The engine and tender set on the rails of the museum grounds near a state historical marker. One unique feature of the museum complex is an exact replica of the original water tank with two spouts.
The Dinky operated from 1878 to 1926. Trains ran daily between Fennimore and Woodman and serving as a key link to other railroads. The Dinky was noted for its versatility, carrying farmers, fishermen, salesmen and school children, as well as US Mail, milk, livestock and other freight. At the peak of narrow gauge operations, Wisconsin had 150 miles of track, now all abandoned.
After the train museum we went across the street to the Fennimore Doll and Toy Museum, where we
(well, I enjoyed) the wonderful collection of dolls and toys. The museum exhibit of antique and collectible dolls and vintage toys ranges from the 1800's through 2000. Of particular interest to me were the 700 Barbie Dolls in beautiful costumes designed by one woman! Wow!!! Porcelain, bisque, Barbies, miniatures, and homemade dolls are on display along with intricately detailed dollhouses. Early Fisher Price toys, Disney characters and many others are also featured.
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