Paoli may be unincorporated but it would certainly never be referred to as a ghost town.
History of Paoli according to nearby Wisconsin Historical Marker:
A meander of the Sugar River, providing an excellent waterpower opportunity, prompted Peter W. Matts to acquire acreage in MontroseTownship in 1846. He erected a sawmill in 1847, soon followed by his home, a tavern and a general store. Matts platted Paoli in 1856, and named it for a town near his Pennsylvania birthplace.
In 1864, Francis and Bernard Minch purchased the sawmill and built a stone grist mill. By the mid 1870's, the community boasted a school, post office, two churches, a cheese factory, two hotels, a doctor and several tradesmen.
The Chicago, Madison and Northern Railroad bypassed Paoli in 1888, but the settlement prospered past the turn of the century; the proud possessor of a local band, an acclaimed baseball team and theatre group. The public ground and Fischer Hall were often used for holiday, social and political events.
As the mill era passed, the population declined. Recently, the community has shown new vitality; buildings have been restored, a new town hall acquired, and new businesses opened.
Just five miles south of Verona, Paoli has much to offer in historic sites, shopping, dining and exploring.
Please enjoy the photo slideshow below of this thriving and vibrant community.
Bicyclists love the Paoli Bike Loop and Badger State Trail which both pass near the small hamlet. Canoeists and kayakers visit here by way of the Sugar River which meanders through Paoli.
Pick up a Walking tour map to Paoli's Historic Sites which include the Schoolhouse, Creamery, Paoli House, Mill and Fisher Hall.
There are several shops and art galleries on the main road.
Must See Stops: Paoli House Gallery was the Paoli House hotel in the mid 1800's. Inside is a lovely punched tin roof.
Paoli Schoolhouse Shops, formerly the school, is home to gifts for the home and garden, as well as a cafe.
The Artisan Gallery, formerly the Paoli Creamery, has "one of the largest collections of fine art and craft in Wisconsin." The Paoli Creamery Cafe is also inside.
Easily the most darling building on the main drag is the stone house of Paoli Cheese Shop. Next door, you will find Gillee's Sweet Spot to have a cup of java or an ice cream cone.
The most interesting find in Paoli was the Local Foods store. Offering local natural and organic foods "from over 80 farmers, growers, bakers and processors." Local Foods is a venture of Ruegsegger Farms, LLC. The Ruegsegger's raise 100% grassfed beef, pastured pork, lamb, goat, and veal, as well as free range chickens, turkeys and eggs. More information here. The store also offers lunch options like burgers made of: Yak, buffalo, beef, veggies, more.
Take the kids to Paoli Commons and gazebo to enjoy an old-time playground complete with a real merry-go-round. It's one of the last of a dying breed of playground equipment.
UPCOMING EVENT IN PAOLI: July 17th, 2010, 4:00pm to ? - Evening along the Sugar River
Website info: "Come to Paoli and enjoy a beautiful summer evening along the Sugar River. Restaurants and shops will be open late with specials and live music throughout the town. Take a stroll through historic Paoli and enjoy the sunset over the river!"
NOTE: Please enjoy the photo slideshow below of this thriving and vibrant community.
Enjoy previous Hidden Adventures here.
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