“The Big One” is a famous cross section of a Douglas fir that was cut down after standing for 586 years.
In total, the fir grew to a considerable circumference of 34 feet 8 inches, a diameter of almost 13 feet, and a head-spinning height of 238 feet.
This Big One was 133 years old when Columbus arrived in America. The Big One was on display at the entrance to the Menasha Corporation in Wisconsin until 1969. Not long after, the Army Corp of Engineers transported the tree by barge down the Fox River to its current home at Kaukauna Lock No. 4.
The Grignon Mansion is within walking distance of the lock and is a national and state historic site. This Greek Revival home has been restored to the time period of 1837 when it was built by Charles A. Grignon for his new bride. The home was called the “Mansion in the Woods” and was an elegant escape from the life of a fur trader. Tours are available early May through Labor Day.
Street Address: 1200 Augustine St., Kaukauna, WI 54130
First Opened for Navigation: 1856
Rebuilt: 1880, 2011
Construction: Quarry stone masonry, concrete caps, wood gates
Lock Dimensions
144 feet x 35 feet
Sill Depth – 6 feet
Lift – 10.2 feet
GPS Coordinates
Latitude: 44.28451
Longitude: -88.25286
Kaukauna #4 Operating Hours
All five Kaukauna locks are usually open weekends Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Please check this page and our Facebook page for updates on the 2023 navigation season.