Tosa – Unearthed

The City of Wauwatosa was incorporated in 1840, five years after New England miller Charles Hart and his brother established the first permanent settlement on the banks of the Menomonee River, just a few miles west of Milwaukee. The name derives from an attempt to honor the Potawatomi Chief Wauwataesie, and also means “firefly” in their language. 

Our day will begin at historic Jacobus Park, in the city’s center, situated along the Menomonee River Parkway. We’ll hike the nature trail and identify some majestic and well-preserved trees: a great example of a woodland in a large urban setting that is in good ecological condition. We’ll then visit the Schoonmaker Reef along State Street. This Silurian remnant, tucked away behind a number of businesses, was the first discovered ancient reef in North America and described by none other than Increase A. Lapham. Hoyt Park is the third and final stop of the day, where we’ll hike through wooded areas that lie adjacent to the County Grounds.  

You’ll come away with a better understanding of regional geology, the Menomonee River watershed and the unique human history of Wauwatosa. We will hone our identification skills of trees in the autumn state.  

This field experience begins and ends in Wauwatosa. You will need to provide your own transportation to and from the various locations. Please bring your own lunch/snacks. Further details and meeting location will be emailed to registered participants one week prior to the trip. No additional entrance fees are required.  

Your guide for the trip is Director of Learning Tom Finley, who has been investigating the flora and fauna of our region for over twenty years. 

Members: $50 | Non-Members: $65