Since the founding of Peshtigo, the river has been the heart of the community, providing power for commerce and daily life. During the great fire of October 8, 1871, it also protected some citizens who sought refuge in its waters. The community honors those who served and defended the country and those who protected, defended, and rebuilt Peshtigo after the disaster, in the spirit of renewal expressed in a newspaper passage published on October 14, 1871.