Danish Tour
DENMARK

Danish immigrants settled into the area southeast of Green Bay about 1840. At first the area was named Copen-hagen, then changed to Denmark in the late 1800s.

Some of the first major landowners were named Rasmussen, Larsen, Olsen, Jensen and Petersen. The region reminded them of their former homeland. The dairy farming tradition was brought by these settlers. Cheese factories dotted the landscape at almost every corner.

On the 3rd Sunday in September, the current residents reach back to their heritage and put on the Danish Fall Festival at the Denmark Memorial Park. Aebleskiver (Danish doughnut or pancake), kringle, medisterpolse (sausage) and sedsuppe (fruit soup) is served. The old-fashioned parade kicks off the day's events and features draft horse units pulling antique farm equipment, antique tractors and steam engines. The Denmark Historical Society gives demonstrations of weaving, spinning, quilting, steam engines sawing logs and a toy tractor exhibit. Exhibits are dedicated to interpreting and preserving the Denmark area heritage.

Area businesses have settled into some of the oldest buildings in the village. Lorrie's Hometown Cafe offers Danish delicacies on her menu daily. The Cafe is quaintly situated in the more than 100 year old building which was originally the Kellner General Store & Millinery. Kathy's Floral has moved into the old Hansen's Shoe Store, and, of course, fills the interior with fresh flowers, green plants, gifts and collectibles. Handworks occupies the Denmark Brewery office building. They sell quilting supplies and teach the art of quilting. Dufeck Manufacturing is still located in the original building in which it was founded in 1910. Dufeck specializes in making round cheese boxes which can be purchased at the factory store.

The Viking Village Butik is a craft and gift shop located in a building that was originally used as a chicken hatchery. The Butik gives a place for local craftspersons and artists to sell their wares and has Danish gift items available.

Steve's Cheese has been a Wisconsin tradition since 1916. They have recently relocated to a new building right off of I-43. Look for their bright red roof. Famous for their aged natural cheddar, they also offer a large variety of Wisconsin cheeses including fresh cheese curds. Stop by for a taste of Wisconsin.

Green Bay Brewing Company was founded in 1995 by Bill and Michele Tressler in an attempt to revive the tradition of brewing which has been notably absent from the area since 1966. The Brewery is located in the old Steve's Cheese plant in Langes Corners. GBBC brews and bottles Hinterland beer.

Visitor's Guide to Festivals

Events Danish Fall Festival, Denmark Memorial Park. Helen Mleziva, (920) 863-6400. Village Wide Rummage Sale. 1st Saturday in May. (920) 863-6400. Lions Weekend. Parade, horse pull, demolition derby.

What to See Denmark Historical Museum. By appointment call Mary Ellen Kubsch (920) 863-2514 or (920) 863-6400. For more information... DENMARK COMMUNITY BUSINESS ASSOCIATION at the Viking Village Butik, 201 Depere Road., Denmark, WI (920) 863-5119.