Pigeon Falls: Local History and Memorial Day

Pigeon Falls combines a local history dating back to the 19th century with Pigeon Creek, which flows close to the village. There are several possible focuses for planning a trip: Hine’s early building projects, the history of the Norwegian Lutheran church, Memorial Day weekend, or a canoe trip when water levels are higher. If you’re looking for a hotel in Pigeon Falls, you can first consider whether local history or a specific occasion will be the main focus of your stay.

Pigeon Creek and Early Local History

The village’s early beginnings are closely linked to Pigeon Creek. Hine found a suitable site at a waterfall on the creek, which he believed to be a natural waterfall. He began building a house, a gristmill, and a fulling mill there. In the fall of 1865, Hine became the first resident at the site of what is now the Village of Pigeon Falls. His early building projects, comprising a house and two mills, encompassed both living and working.

The original Norwegian Lutheran church in Pigeon Falls was built in 1888. In 1949, it was replaced by the church now known as Peace Lutheran. The dates mark different milestones: 1888 was the year the original church was built, and 1949 the year it was replaced. Twenty-three years passed between Hine becoming the first resident in the fall of 1865 and the construction of the church; its replacement followed another 61 years later. This makes it possible to distinguish the village’s beginnings from its later church history.

Memorial Day in Pigeon Falls

The Pigeon Falls Lions Club Memorial Day Weekend Celebration takes place every Memorial Day weekend, from Saturday through Monday. This recurring event is documented in a comprehensive plan from 2018. If you’re planning a future trip around it, check the event dates again in advance. The Falls Four Memorial Day Run/Walk is also associated with Memorial Day weekend and is held in Ekern Park. Before taking part in the future, check the latest registration details.

Ekern Park and Pigeon Creek

Ekern Park is a named park in the Village of Pigeon Falls and is available to residents of the Town of Pigeon. The usage rule applies to residents of the Town of Pigeon; if you’d like to visit the park as a guest, check access in advance. A 2025 schedule for the Major 12u Softball League lists Ekern Park in Pigeon Falls as a league venue. The park references mentioned here therefore relate to different times: the Memorial Day run is listed in a 2018 plan, while the schedule is for 2025.

When water levels are higher, Pigeon Creek is an option for canoeists looking for calm water, a short trip, and a narrow creek. This distinguishes the paddling option from the events: water levels are the key factor for a canoe trip, while the Lions Club celebration is tied to Memorial Day weekend. Before planning an outing, check current water conditions and access options.

For the broader travel overview: Trempealeau County.