Marinette County, Wisconsin

Marinette County, located in northeastern Wisconsin, has a rich history reaching back thousands of years. The region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Menominee people, who lived off the land and utilized the abundant resources of the area. The Menominee played a significant role in shaping the region's history and continue to have a strong presence in Marinette County today.

In the early 1800s, European settlers began to arrive in the area, attracted by the region's abundant timber resources and the opportunities for trade and commerce. Logging quickly became a dominant industry, with vast forests providing employment and fueling the local economy. The development of sawmills and logging camps brought rapid growth and attracted more settlers to the county.

The city of Marinette, named after the wife of a French-Canadian trader, was incorporated in 1887 and became the county seat. The city played a major role in the development of the paper industry in the region, with several large paper mills being established. These mills not only provided jobs but also transformed the county's economy, shifting its focus from logging to paper manufacturing.

Throughout the 20th century, Marinette County experienced further growth and diversification of its economy. The area became known for its manufacturing industries, including shipbuilding, automotive parts, and defense-related products. The presence of industries such as Marinette Marine, one of the largest shipbuilders in the United States, continues to be a significant force in the county's economy.

Today, Marinette County is a vibrant community with a mix of industries, natural beauty, and a strong sense of heritage. The county's rich history, from its Native American roots to its development as an industrial hub, has shaped its identity and continues to be celebrated by residents and visitors alike.
Brief timeline of the history of Marinette County, Wisconsin:

  • 1800s - The area now known as Marinette County was inhabited by the Menominee Native American tribe.
  • 1836 - Marinette County was officially created by the Wisconsin Territorial Legislature.
  • 1870s - Logging became a major industry in the county, with several large sawmills established.
  • 1879 - Marinette City, the county seat, was incorporated.
  • 1880s - The railroad reached Marinette County, facilitating transportation and trade.
  • 1900s - Paper mills became a significant part of the county's economy, making use of the abundant timber resources.
  • 1940s - Marinette County played a role in World War II, with the construction of the Marinette Marine shipyard to support naval efforts.
  • 1961 - The county's population peaked at around 62,000 residents.
  • 1980s - The paper industry faced decline, leading to a shift towards tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing in the county.
  • Present - Marinette County continues to be a beautiful region with natural attractions and diverse industries.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Marinette County, Wisconsin.