Wisconsin Death Trip

As the 19th century nears its end, northern Wisconsin faces a devastating economic crisis. The downfall of multiple mines and the collapse of banks trigger widespread fear and chaos within the predominantly immigrant community.

Local schoolteacher Mary Sweeny experiences a cocaine-fueled breakdown, leading to violent outbursts. Her destruction results in broken windows across homes and buildings, reflecting the turmoil engulfing the community.

A deaf and mute boy undergoes a tragic event when he inexplicably commits an act of violence against his sister. This incident shatters their previously peaceful family dynamic, highlighting the increasing chaos in the area.

In the town of Brandon, two young criminals attack a farmer in a savage assault, culminating in his murder by a shotgun blast. This brutal act triggers panic and a massive manhunt for the older brother, John, who ultimately faces life imprisonment.

A Norwegian teenage girl tragically drowns herself in a nearby lake, leaving behind a heartbreaking suicide note. Her death, tied to abuse and exploitation from her parents, marks a turning point, leading others to follow suit in despair.

Anna, a young Polish girl, is revealed to be responsible for a series of devastating arsons that ravage local properties. Her actions further heighten the community's anxiety and sense of impending doom.

Amid rising tensions, a father commits the horrific act of killing his infant son and attempts to murder his wife. This violent outburst amplifies the community's fears and unpredictability, reflecting the chaos taking hold.

A young man, rejected by a woman to whom he proposed marriage, tragically murders her before taking his own life. This act of desperation showcases the extreme emotional toll the community's turmoil has inflicted on its inhabitants.

As madness spreads, John Isaacson takes it upon himself to rid the world of evil, believing he is combating Satan. He even convenes a Christian meeting at knifepoint, signposting the depths of paranoia overtaking the community.

A German immigrant engages in the deliberate starvation of his livestock, blaming their deaths on witchcraft. This peculiar action adds to the eerie atmosphere of superstitions and rampant delusions gripping the area.

Mrs. Dutton from La Crosse descends into a delusion, believing she is the reincarnation of Jesus. Her warped perception leads to tragic consequences as she takes the lives of her three children in a drowning incident.

Pauline L'Allemand, a French opera singer, arrives in Brockway, claiming she has inherited land. Skepticism from the locals about her appearance and intentions highlights the disarray enveloping the community.

As Pauline attempts to establish a new life, she begins to suffer from auditory hallucinations, convinced she is in contact with spirits. This further illustrates her deteriorating mental state amidst the already turbulent environment.

Parallel to the personal tragedies, local businesses face collapse due to the economic crisis. The middle-aged populace becomes embroiled in infidelity and violence, compounding the distress permeating the community.

Having been released from Mendota Hospital, Mary Sweeny wanders the area, continuing her path of destruction. Her return heightens fears as the community grapples with an overwhelming sense of despair and madness.