Kenosha Light Station
5117 Fourth Ave., Kenosha, WI Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1990.
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
Wisconsin is known as the "Badger State" because of the lead miners who first settled there in the 1820s and 1830s. These miners often lived in tunnels burrowed into hillsides, much like badgers.
In 1834, Kenosha County was officially created by the Wisconsin territorial legislature. The town of Southport, located within the county, soon became a major port for shipping goods and a hub for trade in the region. As the years went by, Southport was renamed Kenosha, which is derived from a Native American word meaning "place of the pike."
During the mid-19th century, Kenosha County experienced significant growth and development. The establishment of the railroad in the 1850s played a vital role in the county's industrialization. The city of Kenosha became a major manufacturing center, producing goods such as wagons, machinery, and automobiles. The automobile industry, in particular, thrived, with companies like Nash Motors and American Motors Corporation calling Kenosha County home.
Throughout the 20th century, Kenosha County faced both challenges and successes. It weathered economic downturns like the Great Depression but also experienced prosperity during periods of growth and innovation. In recent years, the county has continued to diversify its economy and attract new industries.
Today, Kenosha County is known for its vibrant communities, picturesque lakefront, and strong manufacturing sector. It remains an important center for transportation, commerce, and industry in southeastern Wisconsin, while also offering residents and visitors a high quality of life and access to beautiful outdoor recreational opportunities.
Kenosha County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Kenosha County, Wisconsin.
- 1832 - The Treaty of Chicago is signed, opening up the area for settlement
- 1833 - The first European settlers arrive in what would become Kenosha County
- 1836 - Kenosha County is officially established
- 1843 - The city of Kenosha is incorporated
- 1850 - The first railroad line, the Chicago & Milwaukee Railroad, reaches Kenosha
- 1861 - The American Civil War begins, and Kenosha County contributes soldiers to the Union Army
- 1871 - A massive fire destroys much of downtown Kenosha
- 1890 - Kenosha's population reaches over 20,000, becoming a major industrial and manufacturing center
- 1922 - The city of Kenosha becomes home to the first American Motors Corporation plant
- 1960s - Kenosha experiences social unrest and economic challenges
- 2004 - The Kenosha Dream Playground is built, becoming a popular attraction for children
- 2010 - The Uptown district in Kenosha undergoes revitalization efforts