Hyde's Mill - Ridgeway, Wisconsin - A Picturesque Destination

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Nestled along a quiet backroad between Madison and Dodgeville, in the driftless region of southwest Wisconsin, is Hyde's Mill.  This rare, wooden, water wheel mill, constructed in 1850 by Ted Sawle, is located in a breathtaking, idyllic setting, surrounded by lush woodlands and meadows.  This picturesque mill and dam always reminds me of a simpler time and gives me a serene, peaceful feeling.  This tranquil spot is one of the most favored spots for local photographers and artists.  The sounds of water, gently falling over the dam and the bird's melodic songs that serenade visitors, ignite my creativity, making this a stop that is always worthwhile when I am passing through the area.

Since water wheels were one of the first methods of mechanical energy that made life easier for man, visiting this site is a history lovers dream.  It is located at 6875 Mill Road in Ridgeway, Wisconsin.  While it is on private property, it is easily photographed from the bridge with plenty of room for easels or tripods.  No matter the season, Hyde's Mill will not disappoint.  There is also a row of vintage millstones on display and an old sign with Deuteronomy 24:6 written on it. which says, "No man shall take the nether or the upper millstone to pledge: for he taketh a man's life to pledge."

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Just driving through the driftless region of Wisconsin is pure refreshment.  It is a nature lover's dream road trip.  My energy soars in this harmonious environment where the rolling, forested hills, river valleys, lush wildlife, wildflowers, grasslands, and prairies compose a classical masterpiece that thrills all of my senses.  In a world that seems to frantically pass us by, it is rest for the soul to pull the car over, get out, and just breathe in the air, and revel in the sights and sounds of a time gone by and a land untouched by the glaciers.

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The Driftless Region of Wisconsin is home to many artists who regularly find motivation, vision, and inspiration from their natural surroundings.  Many artists have found inspiration at Hyde's Mill.

Roger Dullinger, a member of Oil Painters of America, did a wonderful oil painting of Hyde's Mill.

Pamela Ruschman, an award-winning Wisconsin artist, painted Hyde's Mill in the winter.

Jimmy Navarro posted a picture of his recent painting on the Hyde's Mill Facebook page.

There are many more out there.  One only needs to do a Google search on Hyde's Mill to find artists and photographer's interpretations of this charming location.

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The Mill Creek begins flowing out of Twin Valley Lake, located at Governor Dodge State Park in Dodgeville, WI and meanders along twisting and turning its way into the Wisconsin River.  The Native Chippewa Indians had a different title for this creek.  They called it the Wau-pee-tee Se-be, which is translated, "tooth river" which seems appropriate to me from different reviews I've come across from people who have tried to kayak this challenging creek.

Every time I pass through the area, I desire to stop and see what the mill looks like that day.  The changing seasons and different times of day, make it a mysterious place, full of awe and wonder.  The way the light is shining or not shining, how fast the water is flowing or not flowing, whether the season gives it a flourishing green look, a rustic bare look or a snowy white wonderland look, I just have to know and work to create a new, unique image from the ones I took before.  It is an area that I enjoy playing around with my different lenses and camera settings to see what new effects I can create.

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Crossing to the other side of the bridge, you get a view of the Mill Creek as it leaves the dam area and continues flowing, eventually ending in the Wisconsin River.  According to the Wisconsin DNR, the Mill Creek is a Class I trout stream and is an excellent creek for hunting, trapping, hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, bird watching, and berry picking.

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If taking children with, they may become interested in how wooden water mills work.  If so, I recommend this Puzzeled Water Mill 3-D Jigsaw Woodcraft Kit to help them get a feel for the architecture of a mill.  They may enjoy painting it after they are finished.

Little ones may enjoy playing at the beach with this sand and water mill.

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In the same town, I found this adorable country church, named Hyde Chapel.  I found out it was added to the National Register of Historic Places on October 13, 1988.  It was formally called the Mill Creek Church.  There is a cemetery behind the church where people from all faiths are buried.  

I think this is a beautiful location for you to add to your travel plans, no matter what time of year you are traveling. If you happen to visit Hyde's Mill or if you know any history about Hyde's Mill, I would love for you to leave me a comment and share it with me.  I love to hear from my readers.

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Until next time, always choose the scenic life!

Hannah Babiak is a stock photographer and travel blogger.  For writing assignments or ideas for future posts, please contact her at alwayschoosethesceniclife@gmail.com or leave a comment below.