French Island, WI

French Island is an island in the Mississippi River located in La Crosse County, Wisconsin. It has a unique history dating back to the 17th century when French explorers first arrived in the area. Here is a brief overview of the history of French Island:

Pre-European Contact: The land that would become French Island was initially occupied by Native American tribes, primarily the Dakota Sioux and Ho-Chunk (Winnebago). They utilized the island for hunting, fishing, and transportation along the river.

Exploration and Fur Trade: French explorers were the first Europeans to reach the area in the late 17th century. They established a trading post on the island to facilitate commerce with the Native American tribes. French fur traders, known as voyageurs, used the island as a base to explore the surrounding region and trade for furs.

European Settlement: The first permanent European settlement on French Island occurred in the early 19th century. American settlers, mainly of European origin, began to establish farms and homes on the island. The fertile land and proximity to the river made it an attractive location for agriculture and transportation.

Transportation Hub: French Island's strategic location in the Mississippi River made it an essential transportation hub. In the mid-19th century, steamboats regularly stopped at French Island, making it a crucial link between the upper Midwest and cities like St. Louis and New Orleans. The island also became an important location for the railroad industry, further boosting its significance as a transportation center.

Industrialization: The late 19th and early 20th centuries witnessed significant industrial development on French Island. Numerous factories and mills were established, taking advantage of the island's transportation infrastructure and access to natural resources. Industries such as lumber, flour, and brick production thrived, leading to economic growth and population increase.

World War II: During World War II, French Island played a crucial role in the war effort. The United States Army constructed a military airfield named La Crosse Army Airfield, which served as a training base for pilots. The airfield contributed to the island's infrastructure and brought economic benefits to the local community.

Modern Development: In recent decades, French Island has seen continued development and urbanization. The expansion of the nearby city of La Crosse and the growth of transportation networks have transformed the island. It is now primarily residential, with a mix of single-family homes and recreational areas.

Today, French Island remains an important part of the La Crosse community, known for its natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and historical significance. Its rich history as a trading post, transportation hub, and industrial center has shaped its identity and contributed to its unique character.

La Crosse River State Bike Trail

This scenic trail winds through forests, farmlands, and wetlands, offering opportunities for biking, hiking, and wildlife viewing.

Island Outdoors

A popular rental shop where visitors can rent kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and bikes to explore the nearby waterways and trails.

Onalaska OmniCenter

A multi-sport complex with facilities for ice skating, hockey, basketball, and indoor soccer.

Sugar Creek Bluff State Natural Area

This natural area offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and features hiking trails that meander through wooded hills and valleys.

Riverside Amusement Park

A family-friendly amusement park with rides, mini-golf, go-karts, and arcade games.

Great River Road National Scenic Byway

French Island is located along this scenic highway that follows the Mississippi River and offers breathtaking vistas and access to various river towns.

Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe

A beautiful shrine dedicated to the Virgin Mary, featuring a replica of the famous Basilica in Mexico City, as well as peaceful gardens and walking paths.

LaCrosse Queen Riverboat

Visitors can enjoy a leisurely cruise aboard this authentic paddlewheel riverboat, offering narrated tours of the Mississippi River.

Perl Island Recreation Area

Located just off the coast of French Island, Perl Island offers picnic spots, hiking trails, and opportunities for fishing and boating.

Historic Downtown La Crosse

Just a short drive from French Island, the historic downtown area of La Crosse offers charming shops, restaurants, breweries, and the Riverside Park, which hosts various events and festivals throughout the year.

French Island, located in Wisconsin, experiences a continental climate. It is characterized by warm summers with occasional heatwaves and cold winters with significant snowfall. Here are some details about the climate of French Island:

Summers

Summers in French Island are generally mild to warm. The average high temperatures during this season range from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (mid to high 20s Celsius). However, there are occasional heatwaves when temperatures can climb into the 90s Fahrenheit (above 35 degrees Celsius). Humidity levels also tend to be moderate during these months.

Winters

Winters in French Island are cold and snowy. Average daytime temperatures typically range from the mid-20s to low 30s Fahrenheit (around -3 to 0 degrees Celsius). At night, temperatures can drop below freezing, reaching the teens (around -10 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is common, with an average annual accumulation of around 40-50 inches (101-127 cm). Blizzards and intense winter storms are not uncommon.

Spring

Spring in French Island is relatively short but can vary in terms of weather conditions. March and April can still have some wintry elements, with cool temperatures and occasional snowfall. However, as the season progresses, temperatures start to warm up, reaching the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit (10-20 degrees Celsius). Rainfall is moderate during this time.

Fall

Autumn in French Island is generally mild and picturesque. September and October showcase pleasant temperatures in the 60s and 70s Fahrenheit (15-25 degrees Celsius). As the season progresses, temperatures gradually drop, reaching the 40s and 50s Fahrenheit (5-15 degrees Celsius). Fall foliage is vibrant, with colorful leaves being a prominent feature.

Overall, French Island experiences a distinct four-season climate, with warm summers, cold winters, and mild transitional seasons. It is essential to be prepared for significant snowfall and temperature fluctuations when residing or visiting the area.

French Island is a small island located in the Mississippi River near La Crosse, Wisconsin. It is home to several neighborhoods, each with its own unique characteristics and attractions:

West French Island

This neighborhood is located on the western side of the island and is primarily residential. It offers a peaceful and serene environment, with many residents enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding river and wildlife. West French Island is known for its spacious properties and quiet streets, making it a popular choice for families and retirees.

East French Island

Situated on the eastern side of the island, East French Island has a more commercial and industrial feel. The area is home to various businesses, including manufacturing companies and warehouses. Although primarily an industrial zone, it also offers a mix of residential properties, ranging from single-family homes to apartments.

French Island Marshland

In the southern part of French Island, you will find extensive marshland and wetlands. This area is a haven for nature lovers, with abundant wildlife and recreational opportunities. Residents and visitors can enjoy activities such as bird-watching, fishing, and hiking through the beautiful marshland trails.

French Island Airport

Located on the northeastern side of the island, French Island Airport is a small regional airport serving La Crosse and the surrounding area. It is an important transportation hub and contributes to the island's economy. The airport area features a mix of businesses, hotels, and restaurants to accommodate travelers.

Overall, French Island offers a diverse range of neighborhoods, from quiet residential areas to industrial zones and natural sanctuaries. It provides residents with a tranquil atmosphere while still being conveniently close to the bustling city of La Crosse.