Historical Markers in Calumet County, Wisconsin
The House on the Rock, located in Spring Green, Wisconsin, is a unique tourist attraction that features a bizarre collection of antiques, automata, and other oddities. It was built by architect Alex Jordan Jr. in the 1940s and 1950s.
About Calumet County
Calumet County Timeline
Located in northeastern Wisconsin, Calumet County has a rich history that dates back to the early 1800s. The area originally belonged to the Fox and Menominee Native American tribes, who lived off the land and utilized the nearby bodies of water for fishing and transportation. In the 1830s, European settlers began to arrive, establishing farms and small communities.
In 1850, Calumet County was officially established, named after the Calumet River which flows through the area. The county quickly grew as German, Irish, and Belgian immigrants arrived, attracted by the fertile soil and opportunities for farming. Agriculture became the backbone of the local economy, with dairy farming and cheese production playing a significant role.
The 20th century brought significant changes to Calumet County. The Manitowoc Rapids Hydroelectric Plant was built in 1905, providing a reliable source of electricity for the county. The construction of highways and railroads also improved transportation and connectivity within the region. Economic development continued with the establishment of various industries, including paper manufacturing and food processing.
Calumet County is renowned for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Lakes Winnebago and Butte des Morts offer fishing, boating, and water sports, while the surrounding forests provide ample space for hunting and hiking. Today, Calumet County maintains its strong agricultural heritage, as well as a growing tourism industry, attracting visitors with its picturesque landscapes and charming small towns.
In 1850, Calumet County was officially established, named after the Calumet River which flows through the area. The county quickly grew as German, Irish, and Belgian immigrants arrived, attracted by the fertile soil and opportunities for farming. Agriculture became the backbone of the local economy, with dairy farming and cheese production playing a significant role.
The 20th century brought significant changes to Calumet County. The Manitowoc Rapids Hydroelectric Plant was built in 1905, providing a reliable source of electricity for the county. The construction of highways and railroads also improved transportation and connectivity within the region. Economic development continued with the establishment of various industries, including paper manufacturing and food processing.
Calumet County is renowned for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Lakes Winnebago and Butte des Morts offer fishing, boating, and water sports, while the surrounding forests provide ample space for hunting and hiking. Today, Calumet County maintains its strong agricultural heritage, as well as a growing tourism industry, attracting visitors with its picturesque landscapes and charming small towns.
Calumet County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Calumet County, Wisconsin.
- 1835 - Calumet County is established as a separate county in the Wisconsin Territory.
- 1837 - The first European settlers arrive in the area and begin farming.
- 1848 - Wisconsin becomes a state, and Calumet County remains a part of it.
- 1850 - The first sawmill is built in the county.
- 1867 - The County seat is established in Chilton.
- 1873 - The first railroad is completed, connecting Calumet County to the rest of Wisconsin.
- 1890 - The population of Calumet County reaches over 16,000.
- 1912 - The first electric power plant is built in the county.
- 1932 - Calumet County Memorial Park is established, providing recreational opportunities for residents.
- 1958 - A major flood hits Calumet County, causing significant damage to infrastructure and homes.
- 1982 - Interstate 41 is completed, improving transportation access in the county.