TOWN OF MARTELL, WI – Nestled in the winding curves of the Rush River, unlike several other boom towns in Pierce County, Martell still exists today. Although few businesses of the past remain, many residents, a town hall, and even the old schoolhouse can still be seen.
The first general store seen in Martell was present before the township was even established (appx. 1852), believed to be owned by Amos Bonesteel in 1852. Bonesteel, a veteran of the War of 1812, received a land grant as a reward for his service to the young nation and settled in Martell, he was originally from the Northeast.
They sold the minimum of general goods at the store, as the closest places for trade items were 26 miles to Prescott. At that time, Greenwood (River Falls) was barely established, and most travel was done with teams of oxen.
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