MadCityZen

The beginning of the Bay Creek neighborhood was sporadic. Buildings of various kinds were erected over time and expanded along with the general growth of Madison's population. The neighborhood is partially situated on a Native American burial ground and an unofficial early pioneer cemetery. This ridge was eventually dubbed “Deadman's Ridge.” Early structures included a sanitarium, known as the Water Cure, that was eventually renovated as a hotel and pleasure park frequented by tourists from southern states who enjoyed the views of Lake Monona. The building was eventually destroyed by fire in 1877. In 1884, the Monona Lake Assembly Normal Hall was erected on the sanitarium's former site. Originally intended as a summer camp for Sunday school teachers, the hall and surrounding park soon hosted as many as 15,000 people each year for live music, instruction and lectures. Speakers included William McKinley and “Fighting Bob” La Follette. By the early 1900's the area was known as “South Madison,” and the 400 residents of the area plats considered themselves members of a separate community from the city of Madison. The population was diverse, including descendants of German, Scandanavian, Russian, Irish, Bohemian, Dutch, English ancestry. By 1923 “South Madison” was annexed to the city of Madison, and this period of time, leading to the post-WWII era, saw more improvements in a now thriving area with a population around 1400. The landscape changed over time as apartment buildings rose, and the razing of a number of hills made way for the University Arboretum, Wingra Creek Parkway and Franklin Field. Today, Bay Creek continues to thrive with a diverse population that benefits from living near the amenities of downtown Madison.