Echoes of the Red Cedar: The History of 22-Mile Ford Park

Colfax, Wisconsin. The history of “22 Mile Ford” traces back to 19th-century Wisconsin lumbering when the Knapp, Stout & Co. logging empire used the spot to cross the Red Cedar River. Because the river distance to Menomonie was exactly 22 miles, the location earned its iconic name.

22-Mile Ford Park was donated to Dunn County by the Township of Grant in 1929. At some point, the park was purchased by the Colfax Rod and Gun Club, Inc., developed, and given back to Dunn County in 1960. It has a historical background dating back to the days of the Knapp Stout Lumber Company, which used the ford to cross the river before there was a bridge. They used the surrounding area for its lumbering interests, a bunkhouse, a warehouse, and a hotel.

Before bridges spanned the Red Cedar River, the 22 Mile Ford was a critical, shallow river crossing used to safely maneuver logs and horses.

The first town hall for the surrounding Township of Grant was built at the ford. It was a small log cabin that doubled as both a government meeting space and the township school. Due to frequent river flooding, the town relocated the town hall to higher ground around 1892, selling the original log cabin structure to a local farmer. Part of the original stone foundation is still visible at the site.

The park is now a peaceful getaway offering access to the Red Cedar River, making it a popular spot for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. You can learn more about its current facilities by checking the Dunn County Parks directory.

Amenities: Restrooms, Fishing, Playground, Picnic Tables, Boat Landing

Source: https://townofgrant-dunn.com/town-history/