"The crown of the majestic Sugar Loaf Bluff is disappearing before the strokes of the utilitarian quarrymen," editorialized the Winona Daily

Republican in 1886. "In a very few years that widely known landmark will be but a homely reminiscence of its former beauty and grandeur."

The quarrying operation that resulted in the unusual formation at the top of Sugar Loaf provided limestone to build Winona's sidewalks and trim for many brick buildings before work was discontinued before World

War I.

Rising over 450 feet above Winona, the peak in its original configuration as a rounded dome with a fringe of evergreen on the crown was well known to early explorers, traders, tourists, and river boat

pilots. An often repeated legend says that the mountain was Chief Wabasha's red cap, originally presented to him by a British officer. The site is called "Wabasha's Cap" in early narratives.

[seal of The Minnesota Historical Society]

Erected by the Minnesota Historical Society

1989

Funding provided by the LCMR

Marker is on Parks Avenue north of U.S. 14 / 61, on the left when traveling north.

Courtesy hmdb.org

Credits and Sources: