Lower Fox Valley
Dutch Tour
SHEBOYGAN COUNTY

The Fox River flowing north into Green Bay, is the focus of this tour, tying together several Dutch settlements in Northeast Wisconsin. From their beginnings in 1848 at the rapids known as the Little Chute, the Dutch spread north along the river, founding small towns and farms along the river's length. Dutch settlers contributed their experience to the building of the Fox-Wisconsin Rivers Improvement Project, helping to establish the dairy industry in Northeast Wisconsin and to found one of the area's premier colleges.

Dutch settlers adapted readily to their new homes, and continued to follow many of their traditions. One event that has occurred annually since 1848 is the Hollandtown Schut, or shooting match, held in August. Sponsored by the St. Francis Society of St. Francis Church, the schut has roots in medieval militia training. The modern target, however, is a large effigy of a bird fastened to the top of a high pole. Following a procession from the church to the schut grounds, the participants take turns shooting at the "bird." The one who fires the shot that brings it down is crowned King of the Schut. This event received additional attention in 1956, when Queen Juliana of the Netherlands sent envoys to deliver a silver medal, which is still worn for the day by the King of the Schut.

Stop in for more information concerning ethnic food, festivals, historical tours, self guided and cassette tours and group coach tours. Fox Valley Visitor and Convention Bureau: 1-800-2DO-MORE.

Enjoy great food and shopping experiences in the Dutch Settlements of Little Chute and Hollandtown.

Green Bay Visitor & Convention Bureau: 1901 S. Oneida St., Green Bay, WI 54304, 1-800-236-3976.

Visitor's Guide to Festivals

Dutch Crust Bakery. Dutch pastries-Olliebollen, Letters, Hankies, Pigs in the Blanket, when available. 221 S. Main St., Cedar Grove, WI 53013 (920) 668-6031. Also 107 Pine St., Sheboygan Falls.

Jane's Upholstery and Grand Avenue Antiques. Antiques, collectibles and quality upholstery and caning. Open daily. 505 Grand Avenue, Little Chute. (920) 788-5004. Enjoy great food and shopping experiences in the Dutch Settlements of Little Chute and Hollandtown.