Richland County, located in southwestern Wisconsin, is known for its rolling hills, fertile farmland, and deep valleys that characterize the Driftless Region. The county was established in 1842 and named for its rich soil, which has long supported agriculture as the primary industry. Over the years, dairy farming, livestock production, and crop farming have shaped the county’s economy and landscape. The area is also known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, particularly along the Pine River and in various parks.
Richland County covers approximately 590 square miles and has a population of around 18,000. The county seat is Richland Center, the largest city in the county. Other notable towns include Viola, Lone Rock, and Cazenovia. The county offers a blend of small-town living, historic sites, and access to outdoor activities, making it an appealing destination for both residents and visitors.
Richland Center
Geography and History
Richland Center, the county seat of Richland County, is located along the Pine River in the heart of the Driftless Region. Founded in 1851 by Ira Sherwin Haseltine, Richland Center was initially established as an agricultural and trade hub for the surrounding farms. The city gained historical significance as the birthplace of architect Frank Lloyd Wright in 1867. Over the years, Richland Center expanded with the arrival of the railroad and grew into a regional center for commerce, healthcare, and education.
Today, Richland Center maintains a mix of historic charm and modern amenities. The city’s downtown area features historic buildings, local businesses, and cultural landmarks. It also serves as a gateway to outdoor recreational opportunities in nearby parks and along the Pine River.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Center of the Driftless”
- Area: 4.52 square miles
- Population: Approximately 5,000
- Elevation: 705 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 53581
- Area Code: 608
Transportation
Richland Center is located at the intersection of U.S. Highway 14 and Wisconsin State Highway 80, providing easy access to Madison, La Crosse, and other nearby cities. The city is also served by Wisconsin State Highway 56, which connects it to smaller towns and rural areas. Richland Center Municipal Airport provides general aviation services, while commercial flights are available at Dane County Regional Airport in Madison, about 65 miles to the east. Public transportation is limited, but the city’s road network makes it easy to navigate by car.
Famous Landmarks
- A.D. German Warehouse: A Frank Lloyd Wright-designed building and local architectural landmark
- Krouskop Park: A large city park with playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas
- Richland County Historical Museum: A museum showcasing the history of Richland County
Viola
Geography and History
Viola is a small village located on the border of Richland and Vernon Counties. Founded in the mid-19th century, Viola grew as an agricultural community, with dairy farming and crop production driving the local economy. The village’s name is said to have been chosen for its pleasant sound, though the exact origin is unclear. Over the years, Viola has maintained its rural character and strong agricultural ties, while also serving as a gateway to the surrounding Driftless Region’s scenic beauty.
Today, Viola is known for its quiet, small-town atmosphere and proximity to outdoor recreational opportunities, including fishing, hunting, and hiking in the nearby Kickapoo Valley Reserve.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Gateway to the Kickapoo Valley”
- Area: 0.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 670
- Elevation: 800 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54664
- Area Code: 608
Transportation
Viola is located along Wisconsin State Highway 131, which runs north-south through the village and provides access to other towns in the Kickapoo River Valley. The nearest major highway is U.S. Highway 14, located about 10 miles to the south, which connects to Richland Center and other regional destinations. The closest commercial airport is La Crosse Regional Airport, about 60 miles to the northwest. The village is small and easily navigable by car, with local roads connecting residents to surrounding rural areas.
Famous Landmarks
- Viola Village Park: A community park with playgrounds, picnic areas, and a baseball field
- Kickapoo Valley Reserve: A nearby nature preserve offering hiking, camping, and canoeing opportunities
- Old Settlers Museum: A small museum preserving the history of Viola and its early settlers
Lone Rock
Geography and History
Lone Rock, located along the Wisconsin River in southern Richland County, was founded in 1856 and named after a large rock that once stood as a landmark for travelers along the river. The village grew as a transportation and trade hub due to its location near the river and railroad lines. Agriculture, particularly dairy farming, has long been a major part of the local economy, and Lone Rock continues to serve as a rural farming community with a strong sense of history.
Today, Lone Rock is a quiet village that offers access to the Wisconsin River for fishing, boating, and other water-based recreation. Its small-town atmosphere and proximity to larger towns make it an attractive place for residents seeking a rural lifestyle.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Village on the River”
- Area: 1.01 square miles
- Population: Approximately 880
- Elevation: 679 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 53556
- Area Code: 608
Transportation
Lone Rock is located along U.S. Highway 14, providing easy access to Richland Center to the north and Spring Green to the east. Wisconsin State Highway 130 also runs through the village, connecting it to the surrounding rural areas. Lone Rock does not have a commercial airport, but the nearby Tri-County Regional Airport serves general aviation needs. For commercial flights, residents typically use Dane County Regional Airport in Madison, located about 50 miles to the east.
Famous Landmarks
- Lone Rock Park: A community park with playgrounds, picnic shelters, and sports fields
- Lower Wisconsin State Riverway: A nearby natural area offering fishing, boating, and hiking along the Wisconsin River
- Old Rockford Church: A historic church located just outside of the village, dating back to the mid-1800s
Cazenovia
Geography and History
Cazenovia is a small village located in the northeastern part of Richland County, with portions extending into neighboring Sauk County. Founded in the late 19th century, Cazenovia developed as an agricultural community, with dairy farming playing a key role in the local economy. The village was named after Cazenovia, New York, the hometown of some of the early settlers. Over the years, Cazenovia has retained its rural charm and continues to serve as a hub for the surrounding farming areas.
Today, Cazenovia is a peaceful village known for its close-knit community and access to outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting, and hiking. The surrounding countryside is characterized by rolling hills and scenic farmland.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Heart of the Valley”
- Area: 0.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 325
- Elevation: 970 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 53924
- Area Code: 608
Transportation
Cazenovia is located along Wisconsin State Highway 58, which connects the village to Reedsburg to the east and Ithaca to the south. The nearest major highway is U.S. Highway 14, located about 15 miles to the south, which provides access to larger towns like Richland Center. The closest commercial airport is Dane County Regional Airport in Madison, about 60 miles to the southeast. The village’s small size makes it easily navigable by car, and local roads provide access to the surrounding rural areas.
Famous Landmarks
- Cazenovia Park: A small community park with picnic areas, a playground, and sports facilities
- Lake Cazenovia: A small lake located just outside the village, popular for fishing and boating
- St. Anthony’s Church: A historic Catholic church serving the local community
Boaz
Geography and History
Boaz is a small unincorporated community in central Richland County, located along Mill Creek. Founded in the mid-19th century, Boaz was originally a farming and milling town, with local mills harnessing the power of Mill Creek to grind grain and saw lumber. Although the village never grew to the size of neighboring communities, Boaz has maintained its rural character and agricultural roots.
Today, Boaz is a quiet, rural village known for its peaceful setting and close-knit community. The surrounding area offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, including fishing and hiking along Mill Creek and the nearby Pine River.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Mill Creek Village”
- Area: 0.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 150
- Elevation: 730 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 53540
- Area Code: 608
Transportation
Boaz is located along County Road E, providing access to nearby towns such as Richland Center and Muscoda. The nearest major highway is U.S. Highway 14, located about 8 miles to the south, which connects the village to larger towns and cities. The closest commercial airport is Dane County Regional Airport in Madison, about 70 miles to the southeast. The village’s small size makes it easily navigable by car, and local roads provide access to the surrounding rural areas.
Famous Landmarks
- Mill Creek: A local waterway popular for fishing and outdoor activities
- Boaz Community Center: A gathering place for local events and community activities
- Boaz Pioneer Cemetery: A historic cemetery with graves dating back to the early settlers of the area