Columbia County, Wisconsin
According to countryaah.com, Columbia County is located in the south-central region of Wisconsin. It covers an area of 533 square miles and has a population of over 56,000 people. The county seat is Portage, which is home to nearly 10,000 residents. The largest city in the county is Pardeeville with a population of over 4,500 people.
The majority of the population in Columbia County is white with smaller percentages of African American, Native American, Asian and Hispanic residents. The median age for Columbia County residents is 40 years old and the median household income is $54,781.
Columbia County has a rich history that dates back to 1846 when it was established by the Wisconsin Legislature from parts of Dane and Iowa counties. It was named after Christopher Columbus and the county seat was established at Portage in 1847.
The economy of Columbia County relies heavily on agriculture with dairy farming being one of its main industries. Other major industries include manufacturing, healthcare and tourism. There are also several large employers in the county such as Regal Beloit Corporation, University of Wisconsin-Platteville and Divine Savior Healthcare.
In addition to its economic opportunities, Columbia County offers visitors plenty to explore with its rolling hills and lush forests providing scenic views as well as plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking trails, wildlife watching opportunities and fishing spots throughout the county’s many lakes and rivers. There are also several historical sites for visitors to explore including Fort Winnebago Surgeon’s Quarters State Historic Site which was built in 1828 as a military hospital during the Black Hawk War. there’s something for everyone here in Columbia County.
History of Columbia County, Wisconsin
Columbia County was established in 1846 by the Wisconsin Legislature from parts of Dane and Iowa counties. It was named after Christopher Columbus and the county seat was established at Portage in 1847. Prior to this, the area had been inhabited by several Native American tribes, including the Ho-Chunk, Menominee and Winnebago.
The first settlers to arrive in Columbia County were mostly of English, German and Irish descent. Many of these early settlers were farmers who quickly began clearing land for agriculture. The majority of these farms were small family-owned operations that grew grains such as wheat, oats, corn and barley.
In addition to farming, manufacturing quickly became an important part of Columbia County’s economy. In the mid-1800s, several woolen mills opened up along the Fox River which provided jobs for many local residents. The railroad also came through in 1871 which helped bring more people into the area as well as providing transportation for goods and services throughout the county.
During World War II, Columbia County saw a large influx of people who had come to work at one of two nearby Army bases: Camp Williams or Fort Winnebago Surgeon’s Quarters State Historic Site. After World War II ended, many of these people stayed in Columbia County creating an even more diverse population than before.
Today, Columbia County is a vibrant community with a thriving economy based on agriculture, manufacturing and healthcare industries as well as tourism. The county is home to many beautiful parks and recreational areas that offer plenty of outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, hunting and hiking trails for visitors to explore all year round.
Major cities and towns in Columbia County, Wisconsin
Columbia County, Wisconsin is home to several cities and towns all with their own unique charm and character. The county seat is Portage, which is the largest city in the county with a population of 10,000 people. Portage is located at the intersection of two major highways, making it a popular destination for travelers. It is also home to a number of historic sites, such as the Portage Canal National Historic Site and the Columbia County Courthouse.
Other cities in Columbia County include Pardeeville, Randolph, Rio and Wyocena. Pardeeville is a small town located on Lake Wisconsin with a population of around 1,600 people. Randolph is another small town situated on the Fox River that has a population of around 1,400 people. Rio and Wyocena are both small villages that have populations of less than 500 people each.
The county also contains several unincorporated communities such as Ashton Corners, Fort Winnebago Surgeon’s Quarters State Historic Site which was built in 1828 as a military hospital during the Black Hawk War. There are also numerous rural areas throughout Columbia County that provide spectacular views for visitors to enjoy while exploring this beautiful area.
In addition to its many cities and towns, Columbia County also boasts numerous parks where visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities such as fishing, camping or hiking trails throughout the year. One popular park, in particular, is Governor Dodge State Park which offers miles of trails for hikers and bikers as well as campsites for overnight stays.
No matter what you’re looking for, you’re sure to find something enjoyable in Columbia County. From its vibrant cities and towns to its many parks and recreational areas, there’s something here for everyone.
Population in Columbia County, Wisconsin
According to Act-Test-Centers, Columbia County, Wisconsin is home to an estimated population of 55,000 people. The largest city in the county is Portage, which has a population of 10,000 people. Other cities in Columbia County include Pardeeville, Randolph, Rio and Wyocena with populations ranging from 1,600 to less than 500 people each.
The county also contains several unincorporated communities such as Ashton Corners and Fort Winnebago Surgeon’s Quarters State Historic Site. These communities have smaller populations ranging from a few hundred to less than a hundred residents.
The majority of Columbia County’s population is made up of white Americans (94%), with the remaining 6% being composed of other ethnicities such as African American (2%), Hispanic or Latino (2%), Asian American (1%) and Native American (1%). The median age for the county is 42 years old and the median household income is $55,000 per year.
In terms of educational attainment in Columbia County, 91% of adults over 25 have at least a high school diploma or equivalent and 22% have obtained a bachelor’s degree or higher. The unemployment rate in Columbia County is 4%, which is lower than the national average.
Columbia County has a diverse population with many different backgrounds and lifestyles represented throughout its cities and towns. With its strong economy and numerous recreational activities available for residents to enjoy all year round, it’s no wonder why so many people choose to make their home here.
