My research over the past three weeks has been quite interesting. I have found a ton of background information, especially important facts correlating to German heritage and the Roman Catholic religion within Wisconsin. These two factors are the main influences to why fish fries started and still continue to be so important to Wisconsinites. During my research, I also ran into a few troubles. The toughest obstacle I came across throughout researching was finding a credible primary source. I found numerous sources that reflect on society and specific events from certain time periods, but hardly and direct sources. Eventually, I came across an interesting journal from a freedom writer who traveled to Missouri who worked on integrating races together. This primary source became so valuable to me as a researcher because it ties Wisconsin values of helping others through fish fries.
Overall, all of these sources have helped me to better understand my research question of why and how Wisconsin Friday night fish fries are so important to Wisconsinites and to our states culture. The research I found makes me understand past documented experiences, events, and information more clearly based on having better knowledge about Wisconsin heritage. Eventually, I came across an interesting journal from freedom writers who traveled to Missouri who worked on integrating races together. He stated that the freedom writers would use barbeques and fish fries to bring people together.
I still have a few questions relating to what is the most influential impact to why fish fries are so important to Wisconsinites and our states culture. My only concern is that I won’t be able to distinct important historical facts together and blend ideas to structure my overall argument and reflection to my research question.
I think that you did a great job, and found a lot of information. It seems like you went down the right path and found really good sources too. I think it’s good that you still have quesions because that means that you still want to learn more about Friday Night Fish Fries. If you decide to research more on the questions that you stated on his blog, I think that it will help you a lot in your research paper! Nice job!
It sounds like you have found a lot of information that really helped you learn more about your topic and helped answer some parts of your inital question! It is interesting how the Catholic religion and the German heritage play a part in the role of friday night fish frys in Wisconsin. This is a difficult topic to research so i can see why you are having trouble finding primary sources. Have you considered going back to the archives to see if you can find anything that can help? Your sources so far sound very credible and will hopefully be helpful in your future reseach to try and find some more answers, and in writing your exploratory essay. Nice work Liv!
I think its great that you held onto this topic even though finding research was hard to do. I think you have great sources. The next step I think you need to do is analyze and interpret the writings. You may not get direct historical facts but I think the gathering of family and friends are very important to the this paper. I think you are on the right path to a great paper!
Thanks Kayla! Your comment really stuck out to me because the concept of family and friends gathering together is what Friday fish fries have always been for me personally. I think I can now relate my life in todays society to my research of why Wisconsinites still connect with this type of celebration. This comeradery concept of happiness and celebration is most likely why this cultural and regional tradition still exists today!
This is a very good topic to write about. It’s so unique and that sparked my interest to read your blog. Friday Night Fish Fries are very relevant in society and in my home town we have Friday night fish at the bars and even throw huge Friday Night Fish Fry events! Your topic relates to me and my home town, which is great! I can see how it may be difficult to find credible information about fish fries because it’s probably not talked about a ton. However, you did manage to find the Missouri article/journal which seems like a solid start. Keep up the good work and have fun formulating your essay!!