Mineral Point - Visitors Guide 2008 - (Page 8) shake rag alley as the settlement area of Mineral Point, Shake Rag Generally thought ofheart ofoldestmining Alley was originally the the community, a rough and tumble neighborhood. Early mines and “badger holes” were close by, and Federal Spring, which runs through the 2.5-acre property, provided water to the early settlers. The term “shake rag” is the subject of much local folklore. It has been said that housewives would wave a rag to signify mealtime. At one time it was also the “unofficial” name given to the community by rival villages. There were other “shake rags” located in the US, and it is well known that the name was reserved for places that were home to rough and ragged individuals. Visitors today find quite a different story. The valley and its historic buildings have emerged as a campus for a lively, citywide arts education center. It is another exciting venture for this well-known arts community. Shake Rag Alley Center for the Arts offers workshops throughout the year. From rustic willow bending to mosaic sculpture, to screenwriting classes, visitors from all over the country come to learn a new craft. In June 2007 a renewal and reroofing project of the 1830 log cabin unearthed the intriguing possibility that the cabin might be the oldest schoolhouse in Wisconsin, as well as a very early church and courtroom. The 1840s Stagecoach House has been transformed into three charming guest rooms that are available for overnight stays. Guests will enjoy wireless internet, private baths and fabulous décor – amenities that were certainly beyond the wildest imagination of its early inhabitants. The Carriage House is now the Shake Rag Café’ open seasonally for special events. For details, check www.ShakeRagAlley.com. The valley is also open to visitors who wish to stroll the tree-lined paths, view the lush gardens and historic buildings, and drink in the peaceful ambiance of this lovely magical landscape. 8 www.mineralpoint.com http://www.ShakeRagAlley.com http://www.mineralpoint.com
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