Trempealeau County is located in western Wisconsin along the banks of the Mississippi River and is known for its scenic beauty, rolling hills, and rich agricultural land. The county was established in 1854, and its name is derived from the French words “trempe à l’eau,” which means “mountain steeped in water,” referring to the Trempealeau Mountain along the Mississippi River. Trempealeau County covers about 742 square miles and is a blend of rural communities, agriculture, and natural landmarks.
With a population of around 30,000, Trempealeau County is home to several small cities and towns, each with its own history and unique character. Some of the larger communities include Arcadia, Whitehall, Galesville, and Trempealeau. The county is recognized for its agricultural production, particularly dairy farming, and its outdoor recreational opportunities, such as hiking, fishing, and bird watching along the Mississippi River and in the region’s numerous parks and nature reserves.
Cities and Towns in Trempealeau County
Arcadia
Overview of Geography and History
Arcadia is one of the largest cities in Trempealeau County, located in the northern part of the county along the Trempealeau River. Founded in 1855, Arcadia grew as a center for agriculture and industry, with its rich farmlands supporting dairy and crop production. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the city became known for its large Polish immigrant community, which has left a lasting cultural legacy. Arcadia is also home to the headquarters of Ashley Furniture, one of the largest furniture manufacturers in the world, making the city an important industrial hub in the region.
Today, Arcadia is a thriving small city that balances its industrial base with its agricultural heritage. The city is known for its strong sense of community and hosts several annual events, including Polish festivals that celebrate its heritage. Arcadia’s proximity to the Trempealeau River also makes it a great location for outdoor activities such as fishing and hiking.
City Facts
- Nickname: None
- Area: 2.41 square miles
- Population: Approximately 3,000
- Elevation: 738 feet
- Time zone: Central Time (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54612
- Area code: 608
Transportation
Arcadia is accessible via Wisconsin State Highway 95, which runs through the city and connects it to other communities in Trempealeau County and beyond. U.S. Highway 53 is also nearby, providing routes to La Crosse and Eau Claire. Arcadia does not have a commercial airport, but the La Crosse Regional Airport, located about 40 miles away, provides flights to larger cities. Local transportation primarily relies on road networks, with bus services available for residents commuting to nearby towns.
Famous Landmarks
- Memorial Park: A large community park with walking trails, picnic areas, and war memorials.
- Ashley Furniture Industries Headquarters: A major employer and iconic business in the region.
Whitehall
Overview of Geography and History
Whitehall is the county seat of Trempealeau County, located near the center of the county. Founded in 1861, Whitehall grew as a regional hub for government and trade. The city’s early economy was driven by agriculture, particularly dairy farming, and it developed as a central marketplace for the surrounding rural communities. Over time, Whitehall’s role as the county seat has made it an important administrative and legal center in the area, with the Trempealeau County Courthouse being a prominent landmark.
Whitehall remains a small but important community within the county. The city features several historical buildings, including the courthouse and old commercial structures, which highlight its historical significance. The city also offers recreational opportunities with parks, trails, and proximity to the Trempealeau River, making it a great place for fishing and canoeing.
City Facts
- Nickname: “The Heart of Trempealeau County”
- Area: 2.61 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,600
- Elevation: 797 feet
- Time zone: Central Time (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54773
- Area code: 715
Transportation
Whitehall is located at the junction of Wisconsin State Highways 53 and 121, providing easy access to neighboring cities such as Independence and Arcadia. The city is also near U.S. Highway 10, which runs east-west through the county. The closest airport for commercial flights is La Crosse Regional Airport, located about 50 miles to the southwest. Whitehall relies on a well-maintained network of county roads, making it convenient for residents and visitors to travel throughout the region.
Famous Landmarks
- Trempealeau County Courthouse: A historic courthouse that has served the county since the late 19th century.
- Melby Park: A local park offering walking trails, playgrounds, and community events.
Galesville
Overview of Geography and History
Galesville is one of the oldest cities in Trempealeau County, founded in 1854 by Judge George Gale, after whom the city is named. Galesville is located in the southern part of the county, near the Mississippi River, and was historically an important center for trade and transportation. The city’s early growth was supported by agriculture and river traffic, as its location near the Mississippi made it a key point for shipping goods.
Today, Galesville retains much of its historic charm, with several 19th-century buildings still standing in its downtown area. The city is known for its scenic beauty, with nearby Lake Marinuka offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and bird watching. Galesville has a strong sense of community, hosting annual events and maintaining its cultural ties to the early settlers who built the town.
City Facts
- Nickname: None
- Area: 1.89 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,500
- Elevation: 728 feet
- Time zone: Central Time (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54630
- Area code: 608
Transportation
Galesville is located along U.S. Highway 53 and is also close to Wisconsin State Highway 93, making it well-connected to other towns in Trempealeau County and nearby La Crosse. The city is about 20 miles from La Crosse, where the La Crosse Regional Airport offers commercial flights. Galesville’s location near the Mississippi River also historically made it a key transport hub, though today roadways and local highways are the primary means of travel.
Famous Landmarks
- Lake Marinuka: A popular recreational lake known for fishing, boating, and scenic views.
- Old Main Historical & Community Arts Center: A restored historic building now used for community events and performances.
Trempealeau
Overview of Geography and History
Trempealeau is a village located along the banks of the Mississippi River, just south of Galesville. The village was founded in the 1850s and is one of the most scenic locations in Trempealeau County. Its name, derived from French explorers, refers to Trempealeau Mountain, a unique bluff that rises dramatically from the river. Trempealeau developed as a port and shipping hub, benefiting from its location on the river. Over time, it became a popular destination for tourists, particularly those interested in fishing, hiking, and birdwatching.
Today, Trempealeau is a quiet village with a strong connection to nature. The nearby Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge and Perrot State Park attract visitors for outdoor recreation. Trempealeau’s riverside location makes it ideal for water sports, and its proximity to the Great River Road offers scenic drives along the Mississippi River.
City Facts
- Nickname: None
- Area: 1.54 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,600
- Elevation: 696 feet
- Time zone: Central Time (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54661
- Area code: 608
Transportation
Trempealeau is located along Wisconsin State Highway 35, also known as the Great River Road, which follows the Mississippi River and connects the village to other river towns. The village is about 25 miles from La Crosse, which provides access to commercial air travel via the La Crosse Regional Airport. The Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) Railway also runs through the village, reflecting its historical connection to river and rail transport.
Famous Landmarks
- Perrot State Park: A large state park offering hiking trails, camping, and scenic views of the Mississippi River.
- Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge: A protected area known for birdwatching and wildlife observation.
Blair
Overview of Geography and History
Blair is a small city located in the northeastern part of Trempealeau County. Founded in the late 19th century as a railroad town, Blair grew with the arrival of Norwegian immigrants who settled in the area to farm the fertile land. The city’s economy has long been centered on agriculture, particularly dairy farming and crop production. Blair’s strong Norwegian heritage is still evident in its community traditions and festivals.
Blair offers a peaceful, small-town atmosphere with a focus on family life and community events. The city features parks, trails, and historical sites that reflect its agricultural roots. While Blair remains small, it is a central part of the county’s farming economy and continues to attract visitors interested in its rural charm and outdoor activities.
City Facts
- Nickname: None
- Area: 1.8 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,300
- Elevation: 808 feet
- Time zone: Central Time (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54616
- Area code: 608
Transportation
Blair is located along U.S. Highway 53 and Wisconsin State Highway 95, making it easily accessible from nearby towns like Whitehall and Arcadia. The city is about 50 miles from La Crosse, where the nearest commercial airport, La Crosse Regional Airport, is located. Blair’s small size means that most transportation is by personal vehicle, but the road networks provide easy access to the surrounding areas.
Famous Landmarks
- Blair-Taylor High School: Known for its strong local sports programs and community involvement.
- Lake Henry: A small lake that offers fishing, boating, and scenic views.