BRODHEAD — Tucked along the banks of the Sugar River lies a hidden gem. A place where the echoes of history reverberate through flowing waters and rustling leaves of century-old oaks. Three Waters Reserve, with its picturesque landscapes, is not just an event venue, but a living testament to centuries of human stories and the resilient spirit of nature.
A Walk Through Time
Strolling the trails that wind through the 70-acres of restored oak savanna, prairie and wetland ecosystems that form Three Waters Reserve feels like stepping back in time. Millennia ago, the first people left their mark on the land, shaping its history for generations to come. The Ho-Chunk once called this valley home, and archaeological remnants in the area tell tales of an enduring connection between humans and nature.
The mid-nineteenth century brought about a major change with the construction of a dam and mill race on the Sugar River, powering a hydroelectric operation that illuminated the nearby City of Brodhead. The dam also gave rise to Decatur Lake, a scenic backdrop that still abuts the Reserve today.
From Pearl Rush to Conservation Haven
In the early twentieth century, a freshwater pearl rush briefly turned the Sugar River into a global sensation, supporting a button industry that capitalized on the abundant mussel shell resource. The boom was short-lived however, coming to a halt once the river’s mussel population had been depleted. But the land’s agricultural legacy endured.
In 1905, the property that now forms Three Waters Reserve was purchased by Henry C. Putnam, a Wisconsin pioneer who would serve as Brodhead’s village president, and eventually, a Wisconsin State Senator. With business ties to the railroad company, Putnam intended on capitalizing on the forested areas of the property for lumber production.
Over the years, the property changed hands, becoming the Decatur Lake Golf Course in 1926. For nearly a century, the property was enjoyed for its picturesque river bluff scenery and rolling hills until the golfing landscape shifted in the 21st century.
A New Chapter Unfolds
In 2018, Southern Wisconsin Land Conservancy took stewardship of the land ushering in a new chapter in the Reserve’s story. Their vision was clear—to restore the natural beauty of oak savanna, prairie, and wetlands while creating a space for community gathering, celebration and education.
Since then, partnerships have blossomed, bringing science, education, and local regenerative farmers and chefs into the fold. Public events programming thus far has included foraging workshops, a “Lunch & Learn” series exploring local and regional history, chef’s tables featuring local and regionally sourced ingredients, and a “Plants as Medicine” series highlighting the critical connection between nature and human health. The former fairways now stand as a testament to the power of conservation and community collaboration.
A Taste of What’s to Come
In 2024, Three Waters Reserve will enhance its public events programming by expanding accessibility for mobility-impaired and elderly audiences. The Reserve plans to expand its nature-based educational initiatives and foster culinary collaborations with local breweries and distilleries. Additionally, the Reserve will continue to welcome both businesses and the community to utilize the facility for private events like meetings, retreats and celebrations.
TWR’s Director of Culinary Services, Chef John Marks, and a developing team of servers, bartenders and kitchen staff are getting ready to open up the foodservice for more than just catering events. Watch the website (www.threewatersreserve.com) for more information about opening dates and hours — the menu will feature weekly specials alongside Chef Mark’s award-winning BBQ.