Poygan Paygrounds

Historical marker location:
8816 Poygan Shores Lane, Winneconne, Wisconsin
( Marker is at the intersection of County Road B and Poygan Shores Lane, on the right when traveling west on County Road B.)
Marker installed: 1956

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The world's largest music festival, Summerfest, takes place in Milwaukee each year. It has been held annually since 1968 and features over 800 acts performing on 11 stages over 11 days.
Winnebago County, located in the state of Wisconsin, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Ho-Chunk (Winnebago) and Menominee people, who established settlements along the Fox River. European fur traders first arrived in the late 17th century, bringing trade and commerce to the region.

The county was officially created in 1846 and named after the native Winnebago tribe. The early settlers of Winnebago County were mainly of European descent, coming from various backgrounds such as German, Irish, and Scandinavian. They established farms and small communities along the fertile river valleys, taking advantage of the abundant natural resources.

During the 19th and early 20th centuries, Winnebago County experienced significant growth and development. The arrival of the railroad in the mid-1800s accelerated economic growth, allowing for easier transportation of goods and boosting industries such as lumber, agriculture, and manufacturing. Cities like Oshkosh and Neenah prospered, becoming centers of commerce and industry.

In the present day, Winnebago County remains an important economic and cultural hub in Wisconsin. It is home to a diverse population, including urban areas with thriving businesses and industries, as well as rural communities supported by farming and agriculture. The county boasts numerous parks, museums, and cultural attractions, preserving its rich heritage while embracing modern developments.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Winnebago County, Wisconsin.

  • 1812 - Winnebago County was established as "Quadrafoil County"
  • 1840 - The county's name was changed to Winnebago County
  • 1847 - Oshkosh, the county seat, was established
  • 1851 - The first courthouse was built in Oshkosh
  • 1861-1865 - Winnebago County residents served in the Union Army during the American Civil War
  • 1873 - The current Winnebago County Courthouse was constructed
  • 1934 - The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) was founded in Oshkosh
  • 1971 - EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, the world's largest annual gathering of aviation enthusiasts, begins
  • 1992 - Oshkosh Corporation, a major global manufacturer, was founded
  • 2006 - The Fox River Valley became a National Heritage Area