HISTORY · HISTORICAL MARKER
Dawn Manor
Lake Delton, Wisconsin
· Site of the Lost City of Newport
History
12
On the Wisconsin River, the village of Newport was begun in 1853 and planned for a population of 10,000. Expecting the Milwaukee & LaCrosse Railroad to cross the river there, more than 2000 settlers quickly came to Newport and created a lively land boom. After an alleged secret moonlight survey, the bridge and dam were ultimately located a mile upstream, and Newport was almost completely deserted in favor of Kilbourn City, today Wisconsin Dells. Only Dawn Manor, with its servant quarters, remains. Dawn Manor was completed in 1855 by Capt. Abraham Vanderpoel, a friend of Lincoln and a signer of the Wisconsin Constitution. The house was built of Potsdam sandstone, white mahogany, and white pine, assembled with brass screws and wooden pegs. Dawn Manor houses the art collection of George Raab, one of Wisconsin's famous artists.
FIND IT
Lake Delton, Wisconsin
CITY · 14 STOPSExplore Lake Delton, Wisconsin
Hear every story as you drive
4.8 Stars · 800+ Ratings
© 2026 MainEngine