Stoughton is Wisconsin’s best kept secret according to the Wisconsin Arts Guide.  For many years, a delightful assortment of unique businesses have made their home in Stoughton.  More and more people are discovering the treasures tucked in along Main Street.

HSBA stands for Historic Stoughton Business Alliance. What exactly does that mean? A small group of local business owners get together twice a month to implement increased awareness of the treasure we have with our beautiful historic downtown. Promotion is both local and far reaching. The shop local campaign was one of the many projects these volunteers have taken on. The group has been working on behalf of Stoughton’s downtown for the past 5 years. The web site www.historicstoughton.com is maintained with current happenings.

The recent Community Night in which an art walk was themed around participants bringing in food for the food pantry, is a good example of the community mindedness of downtown business owners. Jessica from Hand With Seeds noted, “This time of year is especially difficult for area families and we wanted to help out in some way.”

These art walks have been good for the downtown, by encouraging people to come out and see what there is to offer. It has been often heard that new customers are happily surprised to discover what downtown has to offer. Stoughton’s downtown is known for it’s specialty shopping, and exceptional customer service. Business owners are friendly and creative. Many of the businesses offer classes to teach others everything from knitting at Woodland Studios, beading at Diakonos Designs & Midnight Moon to cooking at All Through the House and much more. There are many wonderful businesses waiting to make your shopping experience memorable. Treat yourself to Stoughton!

Lynn Gifford
Robert Rae Gallery of Fine Art
www.RobertRaeGallery.com