Join the Restoration Effort

During the year of 1896, for the price of $1, the State of Wisconsin purchased 600+ acres of land containing a small but prosperous fish rearing operation, from Mr. Robinson Derling Pike, a prominent Bayfield citizen. On those grounds, near the banks of Pike’s Creek just southwest of Bayfield, the state built the largest volume fish hatchery in the world, raising up to 37 million fish in 1912.

Friends of the R.D. Pike Building is a 501(c)3 organization whose primary purpose is to restore this magnificent building and its grounds to their original grandeur.

Click the button below to learn more about our organization & how you can become involved!

About Friends

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A Walk Through History

Come on a fascinating walk with us through 150 years of history!

Learn about the intrepid people who developed the property, built the hatchery, harnessed the power of water, raised their families, developed communities and in the process of all their daily struggles and efforts- created a legacy.

Hatchery History

View 360 Building Tour