The Hardy Gallery, otherwise known as Anderson Graffiti Warehouse, is an eye-catching sight to say the least. The dockside art gallery is covered in years of graffiti. But it’s not what you think. Take a look:

Located in Ephraim, the Hardy Gallery is hard to miss – and that’s because it’s covered with graffiti.
The Hardy Gallery/Google
Now an iconic location, the graffiti-clad building has attracted visitors from all over the world.
Tim Weinberg/Google
Interestingly, the colorful artwork on the building’s exterior started long before the Hardy Gallery occupied the space.
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Constructed in 1858 as a dockside warehouse, sailors from all over visited the building. Upon arrival in Ephraim, sailors painted the name of their ship and date on the side of the warehouse to mark their visit.
Charles Culp/Google
Some believe sailors left their mark on the building as a way to commemorate their arrival in Ephraim. Others think it was meant as a sign of gratitude for safe passage through Death’s Door.
Nicole Panosh/Google
It’s unknown exactly when the tradition of writing on the warehouse began, but it’s believed to have started sometime around 1910 and continued into the 1950s.
kesjost/TripAdvisor

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Eventually, the company that owned the warehouse went out of business. In the years that followed, the building served several purposes, but the tradition of adorning its exterior with colorful artwork continued.
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And that didn’t change when, in 1961, the Hardy Gallery moved into the building. In fact, a sign posted on the outside of the gallery encourages visitors to continue the tradition.
The Hardy Gallery/Facebook
Of course, there are a few guidelines. Those leaving their mark should be “creative but tasteful.”
Tiffanyjim/TripAdvisor
The only problem you may have is finding an empty spot - it's getting pretty full.
kesjost/TripAdvisor
Even the rocks that lead to the building are covered in graffiti!
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Plastered with unique artwork, the Hardy Gallery is a masterpiece all its own...and a must-see!
Douglas Jones/Google

 

For more information, call (920) 854-5535. You can also visit The Hardy Gallery website or Facebook page.

So, ever seen The Hardy Gallery in person? Did you leave your mark on the building? Or, is this your first time hearing about it? Tell us in the comments section.

This isn’t the state’s only unique site. Read about another here.

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Anderson Ln, Ephraim, WI, USA