Oshkosh
Streets inches deep in sawdust prompted the nickname “Sawdust City” and probably contributed to the fact that the downtown area was destroyed by fire five times 1859-75. After the last conflagration, rebuilding was done with brick.
A noted Oshkosh resident, Helen Farnsworth Mears, won national acclaim for her sculpture “Genius of Wisconsin,” now at the Capitol in Madison. More than 240 acres of municipal parks and the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh enhance the community. Campus tours are offered; phone (920) 424-0202 or (920) 424-3164.
Menominee Park, 109 acres along the shores of Lake Winnebago, includes such recreational facilities as a marina, paddleboats, amusement ride and zoo. Also featured is Little Oshkosh, a playground complete with castles, mazes, tunnels and a lighthouse.
A collection of nativity scenes, including one made by German POWs in World War II, is displayed at the 1892 limestone Algoma Boulevard United Methodist Church at 1174 Algoma Blvd. Viewing is available during church office hours; phone (920) 231-2800.
Visitor Centers
Oshkosh Convention & Visitors Bureau 100 N. Main St. Suite 112 Oshkosh, WI 54901. Phone:(920)303-9200 or (877)303-9200
Shopping
The Outlet Shoppes at Oshkosh, 3001 S. Washburn St. at US 41 and SR 44, offers more than 55 outlet stores.