Histories: Trempealeau Co. Historical Accounts:
"Trempealeau County" by Clarence J. Gamroth:
Volume 1A:
Communities: Elk Creek
Elk Creek, 1948
Elk Creek was named because in the early days of settlers, there were many elk in the valleys and hills through which the creek flowed. The cross road hamlet is about 5 miles north of Independence on Hwy. 93 served a wide area.
The first settlers lived in sod and brush houses. Indians also lived in the area of Elk Creek. Anna Sluga, when about 2 years old was taken by some Indians. They released her when her father, Frank, gave them some whiskey. Sometimes the Indians visited the settlers and begged for food.
A telephone company was established more than 50 years ago.
A flour and grist mill was built on the creek and was operated by water power. After the dame went out, gas engine power was used and later electric power. The mill was owned by several people in succession, among them Frank Bautch and Lawrence Bautch.
A cheese factory was started and later converted to a butter making plant which still operates. A store was started in the early days and still operates. There was a post office at one time. There also was a blacksmith shop.
Local option prohibited the sale of liquor and Elk Creek was dry for 99 years. This was changed eventually and a tavern was established.
"Trempealeau County" by Clarence J. Gamroth:
Volume 1A:
Communities: Elk Creek
Elk Creek, 1948
Elk Creek was named because in the early days of settlers, there were many elk in the valleys and hills through which the creek flowed. The cross road hamlet is about 5 miles north of Independence on Hwy. 93 served a wide area.
The first settlers lived in sod and brush houses. Indians also lived in the area of Elk Creek. Anna Sluga, when about 2 years old was taken by some Indians. They released her when her father, Frank, gave them some whiskey. Sometimes the Indians visited the settlers and begged for food.
A telephone company was established more than 50 years ago.
A flour and grist mill was built on the creek and was operated by water power. After the dame went out, gas engine power was used and later electric power. The mill was owned by several people in succession, among them Frank Bautch and Lawrence Bautch.
A cheese factory was started and later converted to a butter making plant which still operates. A store was started in the early days and still operates. There was a post office at one time. There also was a blacksmith shop.
Local option prohibited the sale of liquor and Elk Creek was dry for 99 years. This was changed eventually and a tavern was established.