Read School
1120 Algoma Blvd., Oshkosh, WI Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1993.
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.
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.
Winnebago County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history 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