It’s no secret that some of Wisconsin’s best sites are hiding in small towns. And if you’re looking for a new hidden gem to add to your bucket list, we’ve got just the one – Sisson’s Peony Gardens. At one time, the beautiful garden boasted over 2,500 species of peonies, earning Rosendale the title of the peony capital of Wisconsin. Take a look:

The small village of Rosendale is probably most known for a strictly enforced 30 mph speed limit; however, that’s not its only claim to fame.

Royalbroil/Wikimedia

It originally gained fame as the peony capital of Wisconsin – and thanks to Sisson’s Peony Gardens, its flower-related past lives on.

Gary Tipler/Google

Rosendale’s association with peonies goes back to 1920, when Wilbur Sisson planted a personal peony garden that eventually grew to encompass five acres and boast more than 2,500 species.

Mary Kolar/Google

At the garden’s peak, it attracted thousands of visitors each summer.

Susan Nickel/Google

In 2005, the Rosendale Historical Society took charge of the garden and made several updates, including the addition of a white picket fence.

Teresa Manthei/Google

A commemorative sign, which provides information about the garden and its history, was also added to the grounds.

Susan Nickel/Google

The garden still possesses several original features, though. For one, a majority of the peonies date back to the original garden.

Mary Kolar/Google

Of course, new peonies have been added to the garden over the years. Easily identifiable, the newer blooms feature tags that display their names.

Barbara Prendergast/Google

Another feature from the past is the windmill, which is situated at the garden’s entrance.

Gary Tipler/Google

Now a Sisson’s signature, the windmill became part of the garden in 1929 and remains unchanged to this day.

Gary Tipler/Google

Free to visit, Sisson’s Peony Gardens is open for tours every day while in bloom.

Rosendale Historical Society/Facebook

For more information, call (920) 872-2558. You can also visit the Rosendale Historical Society website or Facebook page.

Royalbroil/Wikimedia

Gary Tipler/Google

Mary Kolar/Google

Susan Nickel/Google

Teresa Manthei/Google

Barbara Prendergast/Google

Rosendale Historical Society/Facebook

So, did you know about this beautiful garden? Or about Rosendale’s past reputation as the peony capital of Wisconsin? Ever visited Sisson’s Peony Gardens? If so, what’d you think? Tell us in the comments section.

These aren’t the state’s only stunning gardens. Read about others here.

 

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Address: 207 N Main St, Rosendale, WI 54974, USA