National Register Listing

Antigo Opera House

1016 5th Ave., Antigo, WI
Local significance of the building:
Community Planning And Development

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1984.

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.

community planning and development architecture houses residential buildings
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
Langlade County, located in northern Wisconsin, has a rich and diverse history that dates back hundreds of years. The area that is now Langlade County was originally inhabited by several Native American tribes, including the Ojibwe, Menominee, and Potawatomi. These tribes relied on the area's abundant natural resources, such as its dense forests and pristine lakes, for their survival and livelihood.

The arrival of European settlers in the mid-19th century brought significant changes to the region. In 1853, the county was officially established and named after Charles Michel de Langlade, a prominent French-Canadian fur trader and military leader who played a crucial role in the area's early development. The logging industry quickly boomed, with vast forests being cleared to meet the growing demand for lumber. Sawmills and logging camps sprung up across the county, attracting a wave of immigrants in search of work and economic opportunity.

The 20th century saw a transition in Langlade County's economy from logging to agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. Many of the once-thriving logging towns became farming communities, as settlers began clearing land for farming purposes. The county also saw the establishment of industrial plants, including paper mills and factories, which provided employment for the local population. The county's beautiful natural landscapes, including its numerous lakes and forests, also attracted tourists looking for outdoor recreational activities such as fishing, hunting, and camping.

Today, Langlade County continues to embrace its natural beauty and historical heritage. The county remains largely rural, with a strong focus on agriculture, outdoor tourism, and small-scale manufacturing. Various historical sites and museums throughout the county offer visitors a glimpse into the region's past, including its Native American roots, logging history, and early settlement. With its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Langlade County is a place that celebrates its history while looking toward a vibrant future.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Langlade County, Wisconsin.

  • 1715 - French traders and explorers arrive in the area
  • 1843 - Langlade County is established
  • 1852 - Logging becomes a major industry in the area
  • 1879 - City of Antigo is founded
  • 1882 - Railroad reaches Langlade County, boosting growth
  • 1928 - Construction of Langlade County Courthouse is completed
  • 1942 - Langlade County Fair is established
  • 1980 - Completion of the Ice Age Trail through Langlade County
  • 2003 - Expansion of the Northwood Golf Club
  • 2011 - Langlade County Historical Society celebrates its 50th anniversary