Downtown Sheboygan Falls Historic District

Sheboygan County, Wisconsin has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The region was originally home to several Native American tribes, including the Potawatomi, Menominee, and Ojibwe, who relied on the area's abundant natural resources for their livelihoods.

European settlement in the area began in the early 19th century when fur traders and explorers arrived, including the famous French explorer Jean Nicolet. The first permanent settlers arrived in the 1830s, with the community of Sheboygan Falls being established in 1836. The early settlers primarily engaged in logging and farming, taking advantage of the fertile land and dense forests in the area.

The 19th century brought significant growth and development to Sheboygan County. The construction of railroads in the 1850s and 1860s greatly improved transportation and facilitated the movement of goods and people. The establishment of industries such as ironworks, flour mills, and pottery works further spurred economic growth. Sheboygan, the county seat, became a thriving industrial hub known for manufacturing furniture, shoes, and clothing.

In the 20th century, Sheboygan County continued to thrive as a manufacturing center. The establishment of the Sheboygan Chair Company in the early 1900s cemented the region's reputation as the "Furniture Capital of the World." The mid-century saw a shift in the county's economic focus towards the automotive and electronics industries. Today, Sheboygan County remains a vibrant and diverse community with a strong economy, while still preserving its rich history and natural beauty.