Waupaca County, located in central Wisconsin, is known for its scenic landscapes, including numerous lakes, rivers, and forests. Established in 1851, the county has a rich history tied to early settlers, agriculture, and manufacturing. The name “Waupaca” comes from a Native American word meaning “white sand bottom,” which reflects the county’s natural beauty, particularly along the Waupaca River.
The county covers an area of 765 square miles and has a population of approximately 52,000 people. The county seat is Waupaca, and other notable cities and towns include Clintonville, New London, and Weyauwega. Waupaca County is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, including fishing, boating, and hiking, while its communities offer a mix of small-town charm and historical significance.
Waupaca
Geography and History
Waupaca, the county seat of Waupaca County, is located along the Waupaca River and near the famous Chain O’ Lakes, a series of 22 interconnected spring-fed lakes. Founded in 1851, the city developed as a hub for agriculture and trade, benefiting from its location near the river. In its early years, Waupaca became a center for milling and logging, with sawmills dotting the riverbank. Over time, the city evolved into a tourist destination, thanks to the beauty of the Chain O’ Lakes and its reputation as a peaceful retreat for visitors.
Today, Waupaca is known for its thriving tourism industry, which includes outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and camping. The city also retains a strong sense of community, with local events and festivals drawing residents and visitors alike.
City Facts
- Nickname: “The Chain O’ Lakes City”
- Area: 8.02 square miles
- Population: Approximately 6,000
- Elevation: 820 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54981
- Area Code: 715, 534
Transportation
Waupaca is served by several major highways, including U.S. Highway 10, which provides access to larger cities like Stevens Point and Appleton, and Wisconsin State Highway 49, which connects the city to neighboring communities. The Waupaca Municipal Airport offers general aviation services, while the nearest commercial airport is Appleton International Airport, located about 45 miles to the southeast. Public transportation options are limited, with most residents relying on personal vehicles for travel.
Famous Landmarks
- Chain O’ Lakes: A series of 22 interconnected lakes offering boating, fishing, and swimming
- Waupaca Historical Society: Preserving the history of Waupaca through exhibits and educational programs
- Red Mill: A historic mill and popular tourist attraction featuring a picturesque bridge and gardens
Clintonville
Geography and History
Clintonville, located in the northern part of Waupaca County, was established in 1855 and quickly grew as an industrial town. Named after Clinton, New York, the city developed around the Pigeon River, with sawmills and factories lining its banks. In the early 20th century, Clintonville became known for its automotive history as the birthplace of the Four Wheel Drive Auto Company (FWD), a company that revolutionized the automotive industry by developing the first four-wheel-drive vehicles.
Today, Clintonville remains an industrial hub with a mix of manufacturing, agriculture, and small businesses contributing to its economy. The city also celebrates its automotive heritage with museums and local events.
City Facts
- Nickname: “The Birthplace of Four-Wheel Drive”
- Area: 4.9 square miles
- Population: Approximately 4,400
- Elevation: 823 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54929
- Area Code: 715, 534
Transportation
Clintonville is accessible via Wisconsin State Highway 22, which runs north-south through the city and connects it to other regional destinations. Wisconsin State Highway 156 also serves the area, providing access to Green Bay and nearby towns. The Clintonville Municipal Airport offers general aviation services, while the nearest commercial flights are available at Appleton International Airport, located about 40 miles to the southeast. The city is easily navigable by car, with local roads connecting to the main highway system.
Famous Landmarks
- Four Wheel Drive Museum: A museum dedicated to the history of the Four Wheel Drive Auto Company and its impact on the automotive industry
- Clintonville Riverside Golf Course: A scenic 18-hole golf course along the Pigeon River
- Pioneer Park: A large park offering recreational activities, including playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails
New London
Geography and History
New London is located on the Wolf River and was founded in 1851. The city’s early economy was based on agriculture and trade, with its riverside location providing an ideal spot for transporting goods. New London also became known for its lumber industry, as sawmills lined the riverbanks. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the city grew into a bustling commercial center, with a diverse range of industries and businesses.
Today, New London is known for its scenic beauty, particularly along the Wolf River, which attracts anglers, boaters, and nature enthusiasts. The city also celebrates its Irish heritage with an annual St. Patrick’s Day parade and festival, drawing visitors from around the region.
City Facts
- Nickname: “St. Patrick’s Day Capital of Wisconsin”
- Area: 5.7 square miles
- Population: Approximately 7,200
- Elevation: 773 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54961
- Area Code: 920
Transportation
New London is served by U.S. Highway 45 and Wisconsin State Highway 54, both of which provide connections to surrounding cities like Appleton and Oshkosh. For air travel, residents typically use Appleton International Airport, which is located about 25 miles away. The city’s location along the Wolf River also provides access to waterways for boating and fishing, making it a hub for outdoor recreation.
Famous Landmarks
- Mosquito Hill Nature Center: A natural area offering hiking trails, environmental education programs, and scenic views
- Heritage Historical Village: A collection of restored historical buildings showcasing the early history of New London
- Wolf River: A popular destination for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing
Weyauwega
Geography and History
Weyauwega is a small city located along the Waupaca River in central Waupaca County. Founded in 1856, the city’s name is derived from a Native American term meaning “here we rest.” Weyauwega developed as a transportation hub due to its location along the river and its proximity to the railroad. The city became known for its agricultural industry, particularly dairy farming and cheese production, which continues to play a central role in the local economy today.
Weyauwega is a quiet, small-town community with a strong connection to its agricultural roots. The city is known for its annual Weyauwega-Fremont Cheese Festival, which celebrates the region’s rich dairy heritage.
City Facts
- Nickname: “The City by the River”
- Area: 1.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,800
- Elevation: 794 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54983
- Area Code: 920
Transportation
Weyauwega is located along U.S. Highway 10, which provides direct access to larger cities like Stevens Point and Appleton. Wisconsin State Highway 110 also runs through the city, connecting it to nearby towns and rural areas. Weyauwega does not have its own airport, but the nearest commercial airport is Appleton International Airport, located about 30 miles away. The city’s compact size makes it easy to navigate, with most residents relying on personal vehicles for transportation.
Famous Landmarks
- Weyauwega Historical Society: Preserving the history of the city through exhibits and educational programs
- Weyauwega-Fremont Cheese Festival: An annual event celebrating the region’s dairy industry
- Waupaca River: Offering opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing
Iola
Geography and History
Iola is a village in northeastern Waupaca County, known for its beautiful landscape of rolling hills and forests. Founded in the mid-1800s, Iola developed as a small farming community. The village is most famous for the Iola Old Car Show, one of the largest classic car shows in the Midwest, which attracts thousands of visitors each summer.
Today, Iola remains a quiet, rural community with a strong sense of local pride. Its picturesque setting and small-town charm make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Home of the Old Car Show”
- Area: 1.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,200
- Elevation: 860 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54945
- Area Code: 715, 534
Transportation
Iola is accessible via Wisconsin State Highway 49, which connects the village to Waupaca and other nearby towns. The closest commercial airport is Central Wisconsin Airport in Mosinee, located about 50 miles away. Iola’s rural location means that most residents rely on cars for transportation, with local roads providing access to recreational areas and the surrounding countryside.
Famous Landmarks
- Iola Old Car Show Grounds: The site of one of the largest classic car shows in the country
- Iola Mills: A historic grist mill that has been restored and is now a local attraction
- Iola Historical Society: Showcasing the history of the village and its surrounding area