How the Dells Became the Dells

In conjunction with MOWA’s exhibit of Wisconsin Dells photography over the years, I’ll bring the past and present of this unique landscape together by telling the stories of three decisive figures who put it on the map: Byron Kilbourn, who built the railroad that made the Dells accessible; H.H. Bennett, the photographer and promoter who made it a popular destination; and Tommy Bartlett, who ushered in the modern era and helped to make the Dells a capital of kitsch.