National Register Listing

Kewaunee County Sheriff's Residence and Jail

a.k.a. Kewaunee County Historical Society Jail Museum

Court House Sq., jct. of Dodge and Vliet Sts., Kewaunee, WI
Local significance of the building:
Law; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1996.

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.

jails and prisons
Audiobooks about the history of Wisconsin.
Wisconsin was originally part of the Northwest Territory, which was created by the United States in 1787. It later became part of the Michigan Territory in 1805, and then part of the Wisconsin Territory in 1836.
Wisconsin random facts
Kewaunee County, located in northeastern Wisconsin, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years to when it was inhabited by Native American tribes. The region was originally home to the Menominee, Potawatomi, and Winnebago tribes who relied on the natural resources of the area for their livelihoods. European exploration and settlement began in the 17th century, with French fur traders establishing a presence in the area.

In the early 19th century, the United States government acquired the region through treaties with the Native American tribes, opening the way for European-American settlement. The first permanent settlers arrived in the 1830s, primarily of German and Irish descent. The town of Kewanee, later renamed Kewaunee, was founded in 1852 and became the county seat in 1858.

The county's economy was initially fueled by agriculture, particularly dairy farming. Kewaunee County quickly developed as a major producer of milk, cheese, and other dairy products. The area's rich soil and temperate climate were favorable for agricultural activities, leading to the establishment of numerous family farms and creameries.

In the 20th century, the economy diversified with the growth of the manufacturing industry. Shipbuilding, aluminum production, and other manufacturing operations flourished, providing additional employment opportunities for the county's residents. Today, Kewaunee County continues to be known for its scenic landscapes, agricultural heritage, and industrial contributions.

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

  • 1852: Kewaunee County is established and named after the Kewaunee River.
  • 1855: The first courthouse is built in Kewaunee, the county seat.
  • 1860: Kewaunee County's population reaches over 7,000 people.
  • 1881: The Ahnapee & Western Railway is completed, providing transportation for goods and people.
  • 1894: The Kewaunee Pierhead Lighthouse is constructed to guide ships into Kewaunee harbor.
  • 1911: The Kewaunee Nuclear Power Plant is built, becoming the county's largest employer.
  • 1926: The Kewaunee County Fair is established, showcasing agricultural and entertainment exhibits.
  • 1949: The Kewaunee County Historical Society is founded to preserve the county's history.
  • 1973: The Kewaunee Nuclear Power Plant begins operations, generating electricity for the region.
  • 1995: The Kewaunee County Jail Museum opens, offering visitors a glimpse into the county's past.