Books by Mary Elise Antoine
Browse published works from Mary Elise Antoine. These books feature history of Prairie du Chien and the Upper Mississippi River. Currently, books can be purchased by contacting Mary Elise Antoine.
An Elegant Edifice
An Elegant Edifice tells the stories of the women of the Dousman residence, the Villa Louis in Prairie du Chien. Jane outlived her husband by fourteen years, oversaw the estate and maintained the family’s presence in Prairie du Chien. Jane’s daughter-in-law, Nina, managed the property and assumed the role of head of the family following her husband’s death, ensuring stability for her children during times of tragedy. Finally, Nina’s daughters Violet and Virginia helped to restore the family home in the 1930s, secure its future as a historic site, and record the Dousmans’ history for posterity.
Enslaved, Indentured, Free
The lives of Marianne, Mariah, Patsey, Courtney, and Rachel intersected at Prairie du Chien. Through their lives unfolds the history of slavery in the Upper Mississippi River Valley. Whether through perseverance, self-purchase, or freedom suits, each of these women ultimately secured her freedom, thanks in part to the bonds they forged with one another while living at Prairie du Chien. One freedom suits was used a precedent in Dred and Harriet Scott’s freedom suits years later.
Frenchtown Cemetary
This is a history of the Old Catholic Burying Ground – the events that brought the cemetery into existence, the priests who visited the prairie to minister to the spiritual needs of the residents, the abandonment of the cemetery, and the reverence and preservation of this small plot known as “Frenchtown Cemetery.” Included is a register of burials in the cemetery, with a biographical sketch of each person so listed.
Frenchtown Chronicles of Prairie du Chien
Albert Coryer had a talent for storytelling. He spun tales of the adventures of his fur trading grandfather, lives of early Frenchtown residents, and the origins of local landmarks. Later in life, Albert recorded these stories for family and friends, adding a detailed map of “Frenchtown” Prairie du Chien. This book brings together Albert’s stories and maps, set in context by the editors.
Images of America: Prairie du Chien
Engaging narratives connect place, people, and the broader sweep of history.
The War of 1812 in Wisconsin
This is the story of the struggle between the United States and Great Britain for the control of Prairie du Chien and the western country, which began many years before the three-day siege in July of 1814. It is also the tale of people, Euro-American and Native, who lived in the upper Mississippi-western Great Lakes and how the contest affected their lives.
Fort Crawford
History of the first and second Fort Crawford. Includes information on the early French and British forts, the Winnebago School on the Yellow River, the military road, Black Hawk War, Zachary Taylor and Jefferson Davis, and the American Civil War.
Legendary Locals of Prairie du Chien
Short sketches of the men and women who have made a memorable impact on Prairie du Chien and the area.
How to Place an Order
Currently, you can make an order by contacting Mary Elise Antoine at:
PO Box 22, Prairie du Chien, WI 5382