Taylor County, located in north-central Wisconsin, is known for its rich history, scenic landscapes, and agricultural roots. Established in 1875, the county was named after William Robert Taylor, the 12th governor of Wisconsin. The region is primarily rural, with vast forests, farmlands, and rivers contributing to the local economy. Historically, logging, farming, and dairy production have been central to Taylor County’s development. Today, the county maintains its agricultural heritage while also embracing outdoor recreation and tourism.
With a population of approximately 20,000, Taylor County covers about 984 square miles. The county seat is Medford, and the county includes other small towns and villages such as Rib Lake, Gilman, and Stetsonville. The county’s natural beauty, including the Chequamegon National Forest and numerous lakes and rivers, attracts visitors and outdoor enthusiasts.
Medford
Geography and History
Medford is the county seat and largest city in Taylor County, located along the Black River. Founded in 1875, Medford was established as a logging town and grew quickly with the expansion of the Wisconsin Central Railroad. The city was named after Medford, Massachusetts, reflecting its founders’ New England roots. As the timber industry flourished, Medford became a bustling hub for logging and later expanded into agriculture and dairy production.
Today, Medford remains a vibrant community with a blend of industry, agriculture, and retail. The city’s historical downtown area is home to shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks. Outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting, and hiking are popular, especially with the proximity to Chequamegon National Forest and local lakes.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Heart of the Northwoods”
- Area: 4.54 square miles
- Population: Approximately 4,300
- Elevation: 1,480 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54451
- Area Code: 715
Transportation
Medford is served by Wisconsin State Highways 64 and 13, which provide access to nearby towns and larger cities like Wausau and Marshfield. The city also has a small regional airport, Taylor County Airport, catering to general aviation. For commercial flights, residents typically travel to Central Wisconsin Airport in Mosinee, about 60 miles away. Medford’s road network makes it easy to navigate, and the town is well-connected to regional highways.
Famous Landmarks
- Medford City Park: A large park offering trails, picnic areas, and a public swimming pool
- Taylor County Historical Society Museum: A museum preserving the local history of Medford and Taylor County
- Chequamegon National Forest: A nearby forest offering outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and camping
Rib Lake
Geography and History
Rib Lake, a small village in northeastern Taylor County, is known for its picturesque setting along Rib Lake and its deep connection to the logging industry. Established in the late 19th century, Rib Lake developed as a logging community, with sawmills and timber operations dominating the local economy. The village was named after the nearby lake, which provided a transportation route for timber.
Today, Rib Lake is a quiet, close-knit community that offers a range of outdoor activities, particularly around Rib Lake and the surrounding forests. The village has embraced tourism, with visitors drawn to its natural beauty, hiking trails, and water activities.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Gateway to the Northwoods”
- Area: 1.38 square miles
- Population: Approximately 900
- Elevation: 1,480 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54470
- Area Code: 715
Transportation
Rib Lake is accessible via Wisconsin State Highway 102, which connects the village to Medford and other parts of Taylor County. While there is no major airport in Rib Lake, the nearest general aviation airport is Taylor County Airport in Medford, and commercial flights are available at Central Wisconsin Airport in Mosinee. The village is small, and most transportation is by car, with easy access to scenic routes in the surrounding area.
Famous Landmarks
- Rib Lake Ice Age Trail: A segment of the national Ice Age Trail, offering hiking through glacial landscapes
- Rib Lake Historical Society: A museum showcasing the village’s logging history and local heritage
- Rib Lake Beach: A popular spot for swimming, fishing, and picnicking along the lake’s shores
Gilman
Geography and History
Gilman is a small village located in the northwestern part of Taylor County, surrounded by forests and farmland. The village was established in the early 20th century and named after Moses Gilman, a prominent businessman and lumberman in the region. Like many other communities in Taylor County, Gilman’s early economy was rooted in the timber industry, with sawmills and logging camps providing employment for residents.
Today, Gilman is a rural community known for its peaceful atmosphere and outdoor recreation opportunities. The village is located near the Chippewa River and offers easy access to hunting, fishing, and camping in the surrounding forests.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Timber Town”
- Area: 1.11 square miles
- Population: Approximately 400
- Elevation: 1,283 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54433
- Area Code: 715
Transportation
Gilman is located along Wisconsin State Highway 64, which provides connections to Medford and neighboring counties. While there is no airport in Gilman, general aviation services are available at Taylor County Airport in Medford, about 30 miles away. For commercial flights, residents travel to Central Wisconsin Airport. Gilman’s rural location means that most residents rely on personal vehicles for transportation, and the village is easy to navigate by car.
Famous Landmarks
- Gilman Park: A local park offering walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds
- Chippewa River: A nearby river popular for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing
- Gilman Historical Museum: A small museum preserving the village’s history, particularly its connection to the timber industry
Stetsonville
Geography and History
Stetsonville is a small village located just north of Medford in Taylor County. The village was established in the late 19th century as a railroad stop along the Wisconsin Central Railway, which contributed to its growth. Named after early settler Charles Stetson, the village developed as an agricultural community, with dairy farming playing a major role in its economy.
Today, Stetsonville is a rural village with a strong agricultural presence. The village offers a quiet, family-friendly atmosphere and is closely connected to Medford, providing residents with access to amenities and services in the nearby city.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Railroad Town”
- Area: 0.84 square miles
- Population: Approximately 500
- Elevation: 1,450 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54480
- Area Code: 715
Transportation
Stetsonville is located along Wisconsin State Highway 13, which connects the village to Medford and other communities in the region. The village is just a short drive from Taylor County Airport, providing access to general aviation services, while commercial flights are available at Central Wisconsin Airport. Stetsonville is a small community, and most transportation is by car, with local roads providing easy access to surrounding areas.
Famous Landmarks
- Stetsonville Centennial Park: A community park with playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking paths
- Wisconsin Central Railway Depot (Historic Site): A reminder of the village’s origins as a railroad town
- Rib Lake Ski and Snowshoe Trails: Located nearby, offering winter recreational activities
Lublin
Geography and History
Lublin is a small village in northeastern Taylor County, known for its Polish heritage. Founded in the early 1900s by Polish immigrants, Lublin was named after the city of Lublin in Poland. The village developed as an agricultural community, with its residents primarily working in farming and dairy production. Over the years, Lublin has maintained its cultural roots, with Polish traditions still celebrated in the community.
Today, Lublin is a quiet, rural village that attracts visitors interested in its Polish heritage and agricultural history. The surrounding countryside offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hunting and fishing.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Little Poland”
- Area: 0.91 square miles
- Population: Approximately 120
- Elevation: 1,322 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54447
- Area Code: 715
Transportation
Lublin is located along Wisconsin State Highway 64, which provides access to neighboring towns and cities in Taylor County. The village is about 30 miles from Medford, where the Taylor County Airport offers general aviation services. For commercial air travel, residents can access Central Wisconsin Airport, located about 70 miles away. Given its small size, Lublin is easy to navigate by car, and local roads connect the village to the surrounding rural areas.
Famous Landmarks
- Polish Heritage Park: A small park celebrating the village’s Polish roots with monuments and cultural displays
- Lublin Community Center: The site of local events, including traditional Polish festivals
- North Fork Jump River: A nearby river offering fishing and scenic views