Pepin County, located in western Wisconsin, is known for its rich historical significance, beautiful landscapes along the Mississippi River, and agricultural heritage. Established in 1858, the county was named after Lake Pepin, a naturally occurring lake formed by the widening of the Mississippi River. Pepin County is one of Wisconsin’s smallest counties, covering an area of just 249 square miles and with a population of around 7,200 people. Despite its small size, the county offers scenic river bluffs, fertile farmland, and strong cultural ties to figures such as Laura Ingalls Wilder, who was born in the town of Pepin.
Pepin County has two incorporated municipalities: Durand, the county seat, and Pepin, a village located along the Mississippi River. The area is rural, with farming and tourism playing key roles in the local economy. Visitors come to enjoy the natural beauty of the Mississippi River Valley and explore the historic sites linked to the county’s past.
Durand
Geography and History
Durand is the county seat and largest city in Pepin County, located along the Chippewa River. The city was founded in 1856 by Miles Durand Prindle, who established a ferry service across the Chippewa River, which facilitated trade and settlement in the area. As more settlers arrived, Durand grew into a regional center for agriculture, trade, and logging. The Chippewa River played a key role in the city’s early economy, as timber and other goods were transported via the river.
Today, Durand retains its rural charm while serving as the economic and cultural hub of Pepin County. The city has a historic downtown district with local businesses, restaurants, and shops. Agriculture remains an important part of the local economy, with dairy farming and crop production being key industries. Outdoor recreation, particularly fishing and boating on the Chippewa River, also draws visitors to Durand.
City Facts
- Nickname: “The Heart of Pepin County”
- Area: 2.25 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,900
- Elevation: 755 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54736
- Area Code: 715
Transportation
Durand is accessible via U.S. Highway 10, which runs through the city and connects it to nearby towns such as Mondovi and Menomonie. Wisconsin State Highway 85 also runs through Durand, providing access to Eau Claire, about 35 miles to the north. For air travel, the nearest commercial airport is Chippewa Valley Regional Airport in Eau Claire. The city is small and easily navigable by car, with local roads connecting residents to the surrounding rural areas.
Famous Landmarks
- Chippewa River: Offering fishing, boating, and scenic views
- Tarrant Park: A popular city park with playgrounds, a pool, and picnic areas
- Old Courthouse Museum: A historical museum that showcases the history of Durand and Pepin County
Pepin
Geography and History
Pepin is a small village located on the shores of Lake Pepin, a naturally occurring lake on the Mississippi River. The village was founded in 1854 and quickly developed as a river port, with steamboats transporting goods and passengers along the Mississippi River. Pepin’s location along the river made it an important trading and transportation hub in the 19th century. The village is perhaps best known as the birthplace of author Laura Ingalls Wilder, whose “Little House” books have made Pepin a destination for fans of her work.
Today, Pepin remains a quiet, picturesque village with a strong connection to its history. Tourism is a key part of the local economy, with visitors coming to explore the Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum and the scenic beauty of Lake Pepin. The village also offers a range of outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, and hiking.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Birthplace of Laura Ingalls Wilder”
- Area: 0.82 square miles
- Population: Approximately 800
- Elevation: 682 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54759
- Area Code: 715
Transportation
Pepin is located along Wisconsin State Highway 35, part of the Great River Road, which follows the Mississippi River and connects the village to other river communities like Alma and Maiden Rock. Highway 25 also runs nearby, linking Pepin to Durand and further into Wisconsin. The closest commercial airport is Rochester International Airport, located about 50 miles southwest in Minnesota. Pepin’s scenic location along the Great River Road makes it easily accessible by car, with scenic drives offering stunning views of the Mississippi River Valley.
Famous Landmarks
- Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum: A museum dedicated to the life and works of the famous author
- Lake Pepin: A large natural lake offering boating, fishing, and water sports
- Pepin Depot Museum: A historic railway depot showcasing the village’s transportation history
Stockholm
Geography and History
Stockholm is a small village located along the Mississippi River, just a few miles north of Pepin. Founded in 1854 by Swedish settlers, Stockholm quickly became a farming community, with its rich soil and river access providing the resources necessary for a successful agricultural economy. Over time, the village grew into a cultural center, with a strong emphasis on arts and crafts. Stockholm’s location on the Great River Road, with its stunning river bluffs and panoramic views, has made it a popular destination for tourists.
Today, Stockholm is known for its vibrant arts community, with numerous galleries, shops, and annual festivals drawing visitors from across the region. The village’s scenic location along the Mississippi River also makes it a popular spot for boating, fishing, and enjoying the beauty of the river valley.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Swedish Village on the River”
- Area: 0.62 square miles
- Population: Approximately 75
- Elevation: 715 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54769
- Area Code: 715
Transportation
Stockholm is located along Wisconsin State Highway 35, the Great River Road, which provides a scenic route along the Mississippi River. The village is also connected by County Highway J, which links it to other nearby communities. While Stockholm does not have its own airport, Rochester International Airport is located about 60 miles to the southwest. The village is easily accessible by car, and its position along the Great River Road makes it a popular stop for travelers exploring the Mississippi River Valley.
Famous Landmarks
- Stockholm Art Fair: An annual event celebrating the local arts scene with crafts, music, and food
- Maiden Rock Bluff State Natural Area: A nearby natural area offering hiking trails and stunning views of the Mississippi River
- Stockholm Pie Company: A local bakery famous for its award-winning pies
Arkansaw
Geography and History
Arkansaw is an unincorporated community in Pepin County, located along the Chippewa River. The village was established in the mid-19th century and was named after the Arkansas River by early settlers who had traveled through Arkansas before settling in Wisconsin. Historically, Arkansaw developed as an agricultural and logging community, with the Chippewa River providing a vital transportation route for timber and goods.
Although small, Arkansaw is known for its strong sense of community and rural charm. The surrounding area offers beautiful natural scenery, including river valleys and forests, making it a peaceful retreat for those seeking outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and camping.
City Facts
- Nickname: “River Village”
- Area: 0.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 150
- Elevation: 790 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54721
- Area Code: 715
Transportation
Arkansaw is located along Wisconsin State Highway 10, providing access to Durand and other nearby communities. The nearest major highway is U.S. Highway 25, which connects the village to larger towns and cities in the region. For air travel, residents typically use Chippewa Valley Regional Airport in Eau Claire, about 40 miles to the northeast. The village’s rural location means most residents rely on personal vehicles for transportation, and local roads provide access to the surrounding countryside.
Famous Landmarks
- Silver Birch Park: A community park with picnic areas and river access
- Arkansaw Creek Park: Offering playgrounds, picnic facilities, and walking paths
- Chippewa River: A nearby river offering fishing, kayaking, and canoeing opportunities
Lima
Geography and History
Lima is a small town located in the eastern part of Pepin County. It was founded in the 1850s by settlers drawn to the area’s fertile land, which made it ideal for farming. Lima grew as an agricultural community, with dairy farming and crop production serving as the primary industries. Although Lima remains a rural town, its proximity to Durand and other larger communities has helped it maintain a stable population.
Today, Lima is known for its peaceful rural setting and strong ties to the farming community. The town is surrounded by rolling farmland, forests, and small creeks, offering a tranquil environment for residents and visitors alike.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Farming Community of Pepin”
- Area: 34.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 600
- Elevation: 870 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54736
- Area Code: 715
Transportation
Lima is connected to nearby communities via local roads, with Wisconsin State Highway 85 providing access to Durand and Eau Claire. The nearest major highway is U.S. Highway 10, which runs through Durand. The closest commercial airport is Chippewa Valley Regional Airport in Eau Claire. Most transportation in Lima is by car, with local roads providing access to the surrounding rural areas and farms.
Famous Landmarks
- Lima Town Hall: A historic town hall that serves as a gathering place for local events
- Pine Ridge Park: A small park offering walking trails and picnic areas
- St. Henry’s Church: A historic church that has served the local farming community for over a century