Welcoming in the change from winter to more “mild” days.

From frost-coated cars:

And 40 degree temperature swings:

To Carefree BBQs:

And shimmering sunsets:

This is the beginning of the biking season. A goal of mine is to get the folding bikes up and running. I also plan to get my second bike from up north and speedy it up as much possible. My work bike can remain my work horse, but I have been getting the need for speed.

Another thing is to explore more. I want to find all the back roads in my neighborhood and surrounding areas. One thing when you bike in an area like I do is to find the most scenic routes- not only that, but quieter roads too. Learning a bit of history never hurts either. When I first started biking Appleton seven years ago, I went on a history tour by bike. Sticking with my post on Appleton graveyards, on the bike tour I learned where Appleton’s first graveyard was.

Appleton’s first cemetery was laid out in 1850 in the northwest half of what is now the Post-Crescent block, just south of the railroad tracks. It didn’t take long for citizenry to come to the conclusion that this location in downtown Appleton was inappropriate for a city cemetery as the soil was poor and there was little room for expansion.

From here

In that same area is an artesian well where the Lutz and ice company used to make ice blocks:

At the time of the tour, you were able to drink out of the spout they have there. The water was tasty. Since COVID the water hasn’t been turned back on- go figure. This site also has the honor of being Appleton’s smallest park. Someone must have thought it would be a good talking point designating it a park, because it really is no bigger than a lemonade stand.

Many cities offer bike tours and you can choose what theme to focus on- whether its food, architecture, or- in the case of Chicago, gangster history. It’s all a great way to get out and learn about your city, and make some connections back to your own life. Another thing to remember is the big cities aren’t the only ones with history worth noting. Every city has its own story being written and breathed every day. If you feel like promoting a certain piece of history you’re fond of, consider starting a biking or walking tour of your own. I’m sure you could find people interested through facebook groups.

The appreciation of a city is contagious. The more people biking or walking through the downtowns, the more the Chamber of Commerce enjoys it. They are not just places to drive through or stop by. Rather, they are to be lived in and talked about. Many generations have come and gone and buildings will be there long after the people aren’t.