Day 32 Rest day in Madison

Rest day in Madison for the riders is at the University of Wisconsin–Madison (UW–Madison). The University had its official beginnings when Wisconsin was incorporated as a state in 1848. The Wisconsin Constitution provided for "the establishment of a state university, at or near the seat of state government..." The campus is located about a mile from the state capitol on the isthmus between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona.

Chuck's day started off with an early breakfast with Mike and Dave. He was very glad that it was a rest day because it poured all day long. He even bought an umbrella so that he could go out in the downpour. He said there were rivers running down the sidewalks and streets. He did get a chance to walk around a bit and saw the State Capital.


Wisconsin State Capitol taken from atop Bascom Hill at the University of Wisconsin-Madison

Chuck was very glad of the air conditioning at Van Hise Hall, where they are staying, because the air is very hot, humid and all around muggy outside. During the day he also went to collect money at Western Union. After he told me about Andy's bike, I made some calls and was able to collect $680.00 in donations from Big Ride Alumni for Andy to get a new bike. Andy was able to get a new bike, very similar to the bike that he had. Chuck said that Andy was very surprised and touched by the thoughtfulness of the past big riders. I will post a picture of Andy with his new bike after Chuck sends me one.


Van Hise Hall