Weekly Wisconsin in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Early Wisconsin railroad reforms and debt crisis described

A lengthy, fragmentary report traces 19th century Wisconsin railroad financing from state bonds issued to fund lines, the ensuing market collapse, bond repudiations, and multiple constitutional amendments. It notes bonds sold to contractors, losses from depreciation, replacements by new companies, and a shift to new state railroad plans with substantial net debt around 24 million. The piece mentions legislative actions, surveys of counties, and debates over public funding and tax implications for Milwaukee and surrounding areas. It also includes broader economic context on timber, agricultural production, and trade with Canada and Britain.