Knotty Pine Resort

Photograph that reads “Cabin No. 6- Frank Tichy’s Knotty Pine Resort Manitowish Waters, Wis.”

Tichy’s Knotty Pine Resort, located just past Benson Lake on the Manitowish River, was an active resort beginning in 1948 and operated until 1974. Manitowish Waters municipal tax records show that resort owner Frank Tichy possessed six rowboats, indicating the resort’s popularity. Photographic evidence indicates that the resort peaked at a minimum of six cabins.

Advertising in the Manitowish Waters Chamber of Commerce described the cabins as modern rustic housekeeping cabins. There was a central building for showers and a laundry room. The resort had a coffee shop with a grille and was considered to have great food. Tichy advertised home-cooked meals with a “Northwoods breakfast” that was considered excellent. Tichy advertised a safe beach and children’s playground looking to attract family vacationers.

Tichy was involved in the Manitowish Waters Chamber of Commerce, and he participated in a men’s version of a beauty pageant at Koerner’s Resort in August 1950, portraying Miss Dam Lake during the show. This pageant was first performed for the Miss Wisconsin party held in June of the same year.