National Register of Historic Places listings in Rusk County, Wisconsin facts for kids

Location of Rusk County in Wisconsin

Have you ever wondered about the old buildings and special places in your community? Some places are so important because of their history that they get added to a special list called the National Register of Historic Places. This list helps protect these sites so people can learn from them for many years to come.

In Rusk County, Wisconsin, there are three amazing places that are on this important list. Each one has a unique story to tell about the past. Let's explore them!

Historic Places in Rusk County

Flambeau Mission Church

The historic Flambeau Mission Church

• What it is: The oldest church in Rusk County.
• Where it is: About 11 miles south of Ladysmith, then 5 miles west on Highway D.
• When it was added to the list: August 7, 1979.
• Why it's special: This church was built way back in 1882. It sits right by the Chippewa River. Back then, many people worked floating logs down the river. The church served a community of French and Native American families called Flambeau Farms. It's a great example of early life in the area.

Harold J. and Agnes McFarlane Stone House and Barn

• What it is: A unique farmhouse and barn made of stone.
• Where it is: N6435 Hackett Road, near Hawkins.
• When it was added to the list: November 22, 2016.
• Why it's special: Harold McFarlane built these amazing buildings in 1941. He used local stones that he collected himself! He hauled them on a special sled called a "stone-boat." A builder named Charles Burce helped lay the stones. The barn has cool concrete corners, and the house has fun, whimsical stonework with a repeated wheel design. It shows how creative people were with local materials.

State Bank of Ladysmith

The old State Bank of Ladysmith building

• What it is: A grand old bank building.
• Where it is: 102 West 2nd Street, in Ladysmith.
• When it was added to the list: January 17, 1980.
• Why it's special: This building was constructed in 1912. It has a fancy style called Classical Revival, which looks a bit like ancient Greek or Roman buildings. The front is made of rough-looking granite stones. People used to call it Pioneer Bank, Rusk County Bank, or even "the bank with the clock." The bank also rented out offices on its second floor, including to lumber companies, showing how important banking was to the growing town.