There are thousands of cities of all different sizes throughout the United States today. In almost every one of them there is a “Main Street.” Whether or not it is the Main Street in name, they all serve a common purpose. They are a center of activity, culture, and business in their community.
          Main streets possess unique identities. They have their own style, business, and culture. Their changing identity is a reflection of their community and its history. Looking at the history of a “main street” offers thus a unique perspective of a community and how it has changed over time.
         Smaller cities and towns are known for having “main streets” more often than large metropolis areas. Small towns tend to have a more distinct downtown; therefore, the main street in these downtowns tends to play a larger role in the community through its business, culture, and social opportunities. We can often look at the life along these “main streets” and catch a glimpse of the entire community itself. They almost serve as a backbone for their community.
         The community of Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin is one example of this type of small town. Its main street – known as Bridge Street – remains today the dominant hub of the community. While it has changed over time, its purpose remains the same. In this website, we will look at the first 50 years of Bridge Street as the main street of Chippewa Falls from 1880 to 1930 and explore how it served as a center for social, economic, and cultural interaction and development.