Starting on Sunday, May 3, the Manitowoc County Historical Society will be hosting a scavenger hunt that helps you chase down fun, local facts.
The scavenger hunt, that the Historical Society is calling “Where is Fred B.?” invites community members of all ages to visit the Manitowoc County Historical Society’s website to download a miniature cut-out of Frederick Borcherdt, a German immigrant and early tourism ambassador for Manitowoc County.
Each Sunday in May, a clue will be posted on the museum’s facebook page. The clues are also posted on the museum’s website at ManitowocCountyHistory.org/where-is-fred. The community is encouraged to follow the clues to learn about local history landmarks in Manitowoc County. Download the cut out of Frederick Borcherdt – “Flat Fred” – and take him along with you as you explore Manitowoc County’s local history. Participants can post their pictures of the location and “Fred” to social media with #WhereIsFred
The first clue is:
This spot marks the landing of the first settlers in Manitowoc on May 5, 1836. William Jones of Chicago organized the Manitowoc Land Company and platted Manitowoc in 1836. The small group of less than ten men landed at the mouth of the river, waded ashore, and built a small shelter at this spot. Ben Jones, leader of the settlement, arrived in the spring of 1837, but by that time only a few of the group remained through that first winter. They lived in a rude log cabin at the foot of this street (What is 2 + 5?). You’ll find a marker on the spot.
The scavenger hunt is organized as part of Wisconsin Historic Preservation and Archaeology Month. For more information about the scavenger hunt, or other programs offered at the Manitowoc County Historical Society, please visit ManitowocCountyHistory.org or call (920) 684-4445.
