Shawano County, located in northeastern Wisconsin, is known for its scenic beauty, cultural heritage, and vibrant agricultural economy. Established in 1853, the county takes its name from the Menominee word “Shawano,” meaning “to the south.” The county is rich in Native American history, with the Menominee and Stockbridge-Munsee tribes maintaining a strong presence. The natural beauty of Shawano County is highlighted by its many lakes, rivers, and forests, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Shawano County covers approximately 909 square miles and has a population of around 40,000 people. The county seat is the city of Shawano, and other notable towns include Bonduel, Wittenberg, and Birnamwood. The economy is largely driven by agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism, with many visitors drawn to the area for fishing, boating, hiking, and cultural events.
Shawano
Geography and History
Shawano is the county seat and largest city in Shawano County, located along the Wolf River and Shawano Lake. Founded in 1853, Shawano quickly developed as a logging and agricultural center, benefiting from its location near waterways that provided transportation and power for mills. Over the years, the city evolved into a regional hub for trade, education, and culture, maintaining its small-town charm while growing into a vibrant community.
Today, Shawano is known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, particularly around Shawano Lake, which is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and swimming. The city’s historic downtown features shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions that draw both locals and visitors.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Lake City”
- Area: 6.67 square miles
- Population: Approximately 9,300
- Elevation: 820 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54166
- Area Code: 715, 534
Transportation
Shawano is located along U.S. Highway 45 and Wisconsin State Highways 22 and 47, which provide easy access to neighboring communities and larger cities like Green Bay and Appleton. The Shawano Municipal Airport serves general aviation needs, while the nearest commercial airport is Austin Straubel International Airport in Green Bay, about 40 miles to the southeast. The city’s road network is well-developed, with public transportation options limited to regional bus services.
Famous Landmarks
- Shawano Lake: A 6,178-acre lake popular for boating, fishing, and outdoor recreation
- Heritage Park: A historical park featuring preserved buildings and exhibits on Shawano’s history
- Wolf River: A scenic river offering kayaking, canoeing, and fishing opportunities
Bonduel
Geography and History
Bonduel is a small village located southeast of Shawano, known for its close-knit community and agricultural heritage. Founded in the late 19th century, Bonduel was named after Reverend Fleurimont Bonduel, a missionary who worked with the Menominee tribe in the area. The village grew as a farming community, with dairy farming and crop production playing central roles in its economy. Today, Bonduel maintains its agricultural roots while offering a quiet, rural lifestyle.
The village celebrates its history and community spirit through local events, including the popular Bonduel Founder’s Day Parade. With its proximity to larger towns and natural attractions, Bonduel is an ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful, small-town atmosphere.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Gateway to the Country”
- Area: 1.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,400
- Elevation: 820 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54107
- Area Code: 715, 534
Transportation
Bonduel is located along Wisconsin State Highway 29, providing a direct route to Green Bay and Wausau. The village is also connected to nearby communities via State Highway 117. While Bonduel does not have its own airport, the nearest commercial flights are available at Austin Straubel International Airport in Green Bay, about 30 miles away. Most residents rely on personal vehicles for transportation, with easy access to major highways.
Famous Landmarks
- Bonduel Founder’s Day Parade Grounds: The site of the annual parade celebrating the village’s heritage
- Navarino Nature Center: A nearby nature reserve offering hiking trails, wildlife observation, and environmental education programs
- St. Paul Lutheran Church: A historic church serving the Bonduel community since the 19th century
Wittenberg
Geography and History
Wittenberg is a village located in western Shawano County, known for its rich German heritage and agricultural history. Established in 1886 by German immigrants, the village was named after Wittenberg, Germany, and initially developed as a farming community. Wittenberg became an important agricultural center, with dairy farming, cheese production, and logging shaping its economy.
Today, Wittenberg is a quiet village that retains its historic charm. The community is home to several cultural and recreational attractions, including the Wittenberg-Birnamwood School District and the Ho-Chunk Gaming Wittenberg casino, which has helped boost tourism and local business.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Village of Art”
- Area: 2.75 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,100
- Elevation: 1,145 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54499
- Area Code: 715, 534
Transportation
Wittenberg is located along U.S. Highway 45 and Wisconsin State Highway 29, providing easy access to major cities like Wausau, Shawano, and Green Bay. The village’s location on these major highways makes it a convenient stop for travelers. The nearest commercial airport is Central Wisconsin Airport, located about 50 miles to the west, offering flights to larger cities. The village is easy to navigate by car, with local roads connecting the community to surrounding areas.
Famous Landmarks
- Walls of Wittenberg: A series of murals throughout the village depicting local history and culture
- Ho-Chunk Gaming Wittenberg: A casino offering gaming, dining, and entertainment options
- Wittenberg-Birnamwood High School: A local landmark and community center, hosting various events and activities
Birnamwood
Geography and History
Birnamwood is a small village located in the southwestern part of Shawano County. Founded in the late 19th century, Birnamwood grew as a logging and farming community. The village was named after Birnam Wood in Scotland, made famous by Shakespeare’s play Macbeth. Agriculture, particularly dairy farming, has long been the backbone of Birnamwood’s economy, and the village continues to maintain its rural and agricultural character.
Today, Birnamwood is known for its peaceful atmosphere, close-knit community, and proximity to outdoor recreational areas like the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. The village offers a quiet, rural lifestyle with easy access to natural attractions and nearby cities.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Rural Gem”
- Area: 1.14 square miles
- Population: Approximately 800
- Elevation: 1,263 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54414
- Area Code: 715, 534
Transportation
Birnamwood is located along Wisconsin State Highway 45, which connects the village to Wausau and Antigo. The nearest major highway is Wisconsin State Highway 29, providing access to larger towns and cities in the region. Birnamwood does not have its own airport, but commercial flights are available at Central Wisconsin Airport, about 35 miles away. The village’s small size makes it easy to navigate, with most transportation being by car.
Famous Landmarks
- Ice Age National Scenic Trail: A nearby trail offering hiking through glacial landscapes and scenic views
- Birnamwood Fire Department Museum: A local museum preserving the history of firefighting in the village
- Birnamwood Memorial Park: A community park with playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports fields
Gresham
Geography and History
Gresham is a village located in the northern part of Shawano County, near the Stockbridge-Munsee Reservation. Founded in the late 19th century, Gresham developed as a logging and agricultural community, with the nearby Red River providing power for sawmills and factories. The village was named after Walter Q. Gresham, a prominent 19th-century American statesman.
Today, Gresham is a small village known for its scenic setting along the Red River and its close ties to the surrounding Stockbridge-Munsee community. The village is a peaceful rural area that offers outdoor recreation, particularly fishing, kayaking, and hiking.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Village by the River”
- Area: 1.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 580
- Elevation: 850 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54128
- Area Code: 715, 534
Transportation
Gresham is accessible via Wisconsin State Highway 47, which provides connections to Shawano and other nearby towns. The village is also close to Wisconsin State Highway 29, offering access to Green Bay and Wausau. The nearest commercial airport is Austin Straubel International Airport in Green Bay, about 50 miles away. Gresham’s local road network makes it easy to travel by car, with scenic drives through the surrounding countryside.
Famous Landmarks
- Red River: A popular destination for fishing, kayaking, and enjoying the scenic beauty of the area
- Gresham Dam: A local landmark offering recreational opportunities and scenic views
- Stockbridge-Munsee Cultural Center: A nearby center preserving the history and culture of the Stockbridge-Munsee tribe