Wood County, located in the heart of central Wisconsin, is known for its rich history in the lumber industry and its picturesque rivers and forests. Established in 1856 and named after the extensive woodlands in the area, the county’s economy originally revolved around lumber milling and paper production. Today, Wood County is home to a blend of manufacturing, agriculture, and service industries, making it a key part of Wisconsin’s central region.
With a population of approximately 74,000, Wood County features a mix of small cities, towns, and rural areas. The county seat is Wisconsin Rapids, which is also its largest city. Other notable cities include Marshfield, Nekoosa, and Pittsville. The county’s unique blend of outdoor recreation, historical landmarks, and community events make it a vibrant place to live and visit.
Wisconsin Rapids
Geography and History
Wisconsin Rapids is the county seat and largest city in Wood County, located along the Wisconsin River. The city was originally two separate communities, Grand Rapids and Centralia, which merged in 1900 to form Wisconsin Rapids. The city’s early economy was built on the lumber industry, with sawmills lining the Wisconsin River to process the abundant timber in the area. As the timber industry evolved, Wisconsin Rapids became a hub for paper manufacturing, a sector that still plays a significant role in the local economy today.
In addition to its industrial heritage, Wisconsin Rapids is known for its scenic location along the river, providing recreational opportunities such as boating, fishing, and hiking. The city hosts numerous community events throughout the year, including the Cranberry Blossom Festival, celebrating the area’s prominent cranberry farming industry.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Heart of Cranberry Country”
- Area: 14.67 square miles
- Population: Approximately 18,300
- Elevation: 1,020 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54494, 54495
- Area Code: 715, 534
Transportation
Wisconsin Rapids is accessible via several major highways, including U.S. Highway 10 and Wisconsin State Highway 54, which connect it to other parts of the state. The city is also served by the Alexander Field South Wood County Airport, offering general aviation services. For commercial air travel, residents typically use nearby Central Wisconsin Airport in Mosinee, located about 40 miles away. The city’s road network makes it easy to navigate, with public transit options available through the Rapids Municipal Transit system.
Famous Landmarks
- Alexander House: A historic house museum and center for art and history
- Wisconsin River Papermaking Museum: Showcasing the city’s rich papermaking heritage
- South Wood County Historical Museum: Highlighting the history of Wisconsin Rapids and the surrounding area
Marshfield
Geography and History
Marshfield, located in the northwest corner of Wood County, is known for its robust medical community and agricultural roots. Founded in 1872, the city grew as a railroad and lumber town before evolving into a center for agriculture and dairy production. Marshfield’s economy diversified in the 20th century, becoming home to Marshfield Clinic, one of the largest private group medical practices in the country, which has become a major economic and cultural influence on the area.
In addition to its role as a medical hub, Marshfield is home to various festivals and events, including the annual Central Wisconsin State Fair. The city’s downtown area retains much of its historic charm, with a blend of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions that make it a focal point for the region.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Hub City”
- Area: 13.42 square miles
- Population: Approximately 19,500
- Elevation: 1,276 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54449, 54472
- Area Code: 715, 534
Transportation
Marshfield is a regional transportation hub, with U.S. Highway 10 and Wisconsin State Highways 13 and 97 providing easy access to surrounding areas. The city is served by the Marshfield Municipal Airport, which accommodates general aviation. For commercial flights, residents often use Central Wisconsin Airport, located about 30 miles to the northeast. Public transportation is available through Marshfield Transit, offering fixed-route bus services and paratransit for residents.
Famous Landmarks
- Wildwood Zoo: A family-friendly attraction featuring native Wisconsin animals
- Jurustic Park: A whimsical sculpture park with creatures made from recycled metal
- World’s Largest Round Barn: Located at the Central Wisconsin State Fairgrounds, it is a unique architectural landmark
Nekoosa
Geography and History
Nekoosa is a small city located along the Wisconsin River, just south of Wisconsin Rapids. The city’s name comes from the Ho-Chunk Native American word meaning “running water.” Nekoosa’s history is closely tied to the paper industry, with the establishment of the Nekoosa Paper Company in the 1880s marking the beginning of its economic growth. The city’s proximity to the river made it an ideal location for paper mills, which played a central role in the community’s development.
Today, Nekoosa is known for its strong connection to the outdoors, with numerous parks and access to the river for fishing, boating, and other recreational activities. The town retains its small-town charm, with a strong sense of community and local pride.
City Facts
- Nickname: “The Paper City”
- Area: 3.39 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,500
- Elevation: 1,020 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54457
- Area Code: 715, 534
Transportation
Nekoosa is served by Wisconsin State Highway 173, which connects the town to Wisconsin Rapids and other nearby communities. The nearest airport is Alexander Field South Wood County Airport, located in Wisconsin Rapids, providing general aviation services. For commercial flights, residents often use Central Wisconsin Airport or airports in larger cities like Milwaukee or Minneapolis. The town’s small size makes it easy to navigate by car, with ample access to the surrounding region’s road network.
Famous Landmarks
- Nekoosa Port Edwards State Bank: One of the oldest continually operating banks in the state
- Nekoosa Mill: A historical paper mill that has played a central role in the city’s economy
- Riverside Park: A popular local park offering river access and recreational facilities
Pittsville
Geography and History
Pittsville is a small city located in the center of Wood County and holds the distinction of being the geographic center of Wisconsin. Founded in the late 19th century, the town originally grew as a logging and agricultural community. Today, Pittsville continues to serve as a hub for agriculture, with a strong focus on dairy farming and crop production.
Despite its small size, Pittsville is known for its rural charm and close-knit community. The town celebrates its agricultural roots with events like the annual “Heart of Wisconsin” celebration, which draws visitors from across the region. Pittsville also serves as a base for exploring the natural beauty of central Wisconsin.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Heart of Wisconsin”
- Area: 1.7 square miles
- Population: Approximately 825
- Elevation: 1,020 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54466
- Area Code: 715, 534
Transportation
Pittsville is located along Wisconsin State Highway 80, which connects the town to other communities in central Wisconsin. The nearest airports are located in Marshfield and Wisconsin Rapids, offering general aviation services, while commercial flights are available at Central Wisconsin Airport. The town’s rural location means that most residents rely on personal vehicles for transportation, with highways providing access to larger cities in the region.
Famous Landmarks
- Geographic Marker: A monument marking the geographic center of Wisconsin
- Pittsville Logging Camp Museum: A museum dedicated to the town’s logging history
- Heart of Wisconsin Park: A local park that hosts community events and outdoor activities
Babcock
Geography and History
Babcock is a small, unincorporated community in southwestern Wood County, situated near the Cranberry Marshes, which have been a key part of the local economy for over a century. Established as a rail stop in the early 1900s, Babcock grew alongside the cranberry industry, becoming known as a center for cranberry production in Wisconsin.
While Babcock remains a quiet, rural community, it continues to play an important role in the region’s agricultural economy, particularly in cranberry farming. The area’s marshlands and wildlife also make it a popular destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Cranberry Capital”
- Area: Unincorporated
- Population: Approximately 100
- Elevation: 1,000 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54413
- Area Code: 715, 534
Transportation
Babcock is located along Wisconsin State Highway 173, which provides access to nearby towns like Nekoosa and Necedah. Due to its small size, Babcock does not have its own airport, but general aviation services are available in Wisconsin Rapids and Marshfield. Commercial flights can be accessed at Central Wisconsin Airport. The community’s small size and rural setting mean that most transportation is by personal vehicle, with limited public transportation options.
Famous Landmarks
- Sandhill Wildlife Area: A state-managed wildlife area known for its birdwatching opportunities and scenic beauty
- Cranberry Marshes: Famous for their role in Wisconsin’s cranberry industry
- Babcock Train Depot: A historic depot that highlights the town’s railroad heritage