Ryall, M. E. (23 May 2007). Woodland spring and watercress are a joy. Washburn County Register, p. 28.

Woodland spring and watercress are a joy

By Mary Ellen Ryall

SHELL LAKE - An artesian spring bubbles forth from the earth on CTH B, between Shell Lake and Spooner. A sign near the site states, "Thanks to Spooner High School VICA Club (Vocational Industrial Club of America) for building the walkway in cooperation with the Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Management." It is a joy to walk out on the wooden pathway and fill empty bottles with pure spring water. Within the woods little chickadees are heard singing. This natural resource is a treasure for more than one reason.

Watercress grows in the clear stream water. In reading "Gourmet Cooking for Free," there is an old-fashioned recipe for watercress sandwiches. Stanley Wickman, a farmer from Shell Lake, supplied the farm fresh eggs used in Bradford Angier's 1970 recipe.

Watercress sandwich recipe

In a kitchen sink, wash watercress under fast-running water to remove dirt from roots and leaves. The leaves can be handpicked and set aside. Pat the leaves dry with a cloth or paper towel. Store the watercress in small self-sealing bags and refrigerate. Watercress can be stored for several days in this manner. When ready to use, chop the watercress and add to your favorite egg salad recipe.

Watercress sandwiches were considered a delicacy in the old South. Several residents at Lakeland Manor can attest to this. They recently enjoyed fresh watercress that grew in the little stream by the artesian spring in the woods.