Augustin Grignon facts for kids

Augustin Grignon (born June 27, 1780 – died October 2, 1860) was an important businessman in early Wisconsin. He was known for trading furs and starting different businesses in the Fox River Valley. He lived through the time when Wisconsin was a territory and became a state.

Family Background

Augustin Grignon was born in Green Bay. He was the third of nine children born to Pierre Grignon Sr. and Domitelle Langlade Grignon. His family had a long history in the area. His grandfather, Charles Langlade, was Métis. This means he had both Native American and European ancestors. Many people called Charles Langlade the "father of Wisconsin" because he helped settle the region.

When he was 25, Augustin married Nancy McCrea. Nancy's father was a fur trader from Montreal, and her mother was a Menominee woman. Augustin and Nancy had six children together.

Business Ventures

Augustin Grignon started his business career early. After his father died in 1795, he and his brother, Pierre Jr., took over their father's store in Green Bay. They managed the store for about ten years.

In 1805, Augustin moved to land near Kaukauna. This property was inherited by his wife. There, he continued to work in general trade. He also became a farmer. In 1821, he built a flourmill and a gristmill. These mills helped local farmers turn their grain into flour.

In 1832, Augustin Grignon received the first private property in Columbia County. This land was located near Fort Winnebago, which was a very important spot for trade and travel. By 1834, he began to slow down his work, going into semi-retirement. He continued to be involved in the fur trade at Butte des Morts. Augustin Grignon died on October 2, 1860, in Butte des Morts.