Pendarvis
Little Cornwall
State: Wisconsin
County: Iowa County
Founded: 1830s
Abandoned: 1860s
Peak Population: 500
Cornish miners built stone cottages in Wisconsin's lead mining district during the 1830s-40s. When lead mining declined, many left for California gold. The Pendarvis complex of restored Cornish miner cottages is now a state historic site.
Cornish Immigration
Experienced tin miners from Cornwall, England, brought their skills to Wisconsin's lead district. They built stone cottages like those back home.
Preservation
In the 1930s, preservationists began restoring the abandoned cottages. Pendarvis is now operated as a historic site.
Timeline
- 1830s - Settled Cornish miners arrived
- 1860s - Decline Lead mining ended
- 1935 - Restoration Preservation began
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Summer
Difficulty: Easy
Time Needed: 2 hours
Quick Facts
- Cornish miners called 'Cousin Jacks'
- Stone cottages like Cornwall
- Famous for Cornish pasties
Location
Address: Mineral Point, Wisconsin
Coordinates: 42.8633, -90.3472