R.D. Pike
RD Pike is a fascinating historical figure, who lived a life full of achievement. He had an outsized impact on Bayfield and its citizens from the time the he returned to Bayfield in 1866, after leaving the union army, until he died in 1906.
Eleanor Knight wrote that “ Captain Robinson Derling Pike is the outstanding citizen of Bayfield’s first century,” And Ms. Knight knew what she was talking about. Her work was recognized by the Wisconsin Historical Society when she was given its prestigious Award of Merit for her work preserving and sharing the history of the Bayfield area.
Her description of RD is also noteworthy because she was the granddaughter of William Knight, who was probably the only other contender for the outstanding citizen of designation. And when you delve into Pike’s life, you reach the inescapable conclusion that Ms. Knight was absolutely correct.
Dan Wilczek presented the Life of R.D. Pike as part of the R.D. Pike Day celebrations in the summer of 2023. Dan takes you on an informative and entertaining journey.
Check out the slideshow below. Hover/tap on the slides and a full-screen option will appear.
