1887. 88p

• La Crosse, a city with a rich history, is not only historical but also picturesque and descriptive, as portrayed in a publication by Pratt & Owen in 1887. The city's artful delineation and its scenic beauty are captured in illustrations selected to preserve its heritage for future generations. La Crosse's favorable situation in the Mississippi Valley, with its varied and grand scenery, has attracted visitors and settlers alike since its early days when the French missionaries planted crosses in the area. The city boasts a beautiful cemetery, Oak Grove Cemetery, acknowledged as one of the most exquisite in the state, alongside its geographical advantages, agricultural richness, and flourishing trade and manufacturing sectors. The city's growth from a small trading post to a bustling urban center is attributed to the ingenuity and hard work of its people, who have capitalized on its lumber trade, agricultural resources, and excellent transportation connections through the railroad network. La Crosse is home to a vibrant mix of industries, including sawmills, flour mills, woolen mills, breweries, foundries, and more, reflecting its prosperous economic landscape. The city's Board of Trade, founded in 1868, continues to champion business interests and foster growth, while its numerous churches and religious organizations stand as pillars of faith and community strength. With a rich tapestry of historical significance, economic prosperity, and cultural vibrancy, La Crosse continues to shine as a gem in the heart of the Mississippi Valley.

• Built in 1870 and costing $34,000, the church history of La Crosse began with the organization of the First M.E. Church in January 1852, followed by the establishment of the Baptist Church and the construction of a church building. Over the years, more denominations were founded, including Christ's Episcopal Church in 1857 and the German Lutheran Society in 1859. The Roman Catholic denomination was established in 1855. Gas works were established in 1860 and passed through several ownership changes until the McMillen family successfully operated them in 1869. North La Crosse evolved into an important business center separated from the main city by a causeway, thriving with large sawmills and diverse interests. The city's continuous growth is underscored by the development of various church organizations, substantial bank deposits, and thriving industrial sectors demonstrated by significant freight volume. La Crosse's charm lies in its well-planned urban beauty, including symmetric rows of foliage-lined streets, parks, and drives adorning the city. Its commercial significance rests in its diversified industries, with products reaching both national and international markets. The city's meticulously planned beauty is further complemented by its picturesque drives, shady lanes, and lush parks, all contributing to its standing as the most beautiful and prosperous city in the upper Mississippi River valley. The city combines stability with culture, wealth with comfort, showcasing a blend of nature's gifts and human ingenuity in ensuring La Crosse's continued prosperity and charm.