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Flag associated with Jefferson, Wisconsin, USA History of Jefferson, Wisconsin, USA

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Explore the history, people, photographs, newspapers, postcards, and genealogy connected to Jefferson, Wisconsin, USA.

ABOUT THE PLACE

About Jefferson

Jefferson, Wisconsin, USA - Jefferson, Wisconsin, USA - Jefferson, Wis., in 1860
Jefferson Township was first settled by Rodney J. Currier and Andrew Lansing in December 1836 when they built a cabin in the northwest quarter of Section 10. By October 1837 a building that housed a tavern, trading post, and courthouse was built at the present site of the Jefferson County Courthouse.

What is now the City of Jefferson operated under Town government until 1857, when the City of Jefferson was incorporated. The first settlers in the area of Helenville were John Walther, Christian Horn, Bernhard Keller, and "Old Man" Haag. The first general store was opened by Christian Lory in 1849. Helenville was named in honor of the wife of Orgies Bullwinkel who was the first postmaster. The post office was established on February 25, 1851.
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VINTAGE JEFFERSON

Jefferson Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards

Jefferson, Wisconsin, USA - Jefferson, Wis., in 1860
Jefferson, Wisconsin, USA
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Jefferson, Wis., in 1860
Jefferson, Wisconsin, USA - St Colleta's Convent, Jefferson, Wis.
Jefferson, Wisconsin, USA
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St Colleta's Convent, Jefferson, Wis.
Jefferson, Wisconsin, USA - Fountain in High School Yard, Jefferson, Wis.
Jefferson, Wisconsin, USA
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Fountain in High School Yard, Jefferson, Wis.
Genealogy gifts & optional resources
OPTIONAL EXTRAS

Genealogy Gifts & Resources Related to JEFFERSON

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WISCONSIN Ancestry Humor Mug – My Ancestors Came from Wisconsin | Brats, Cheese & Beer Lovers Gift

Celebrate your Wisconsin roots with a mug as bold as your love for brats, cheese, and—let’s be honest—beer! Perfect for genealogy enthusiasts, proud Wisconsinites, or anyone who appreciates a good laugh with their morning coffee, tea, or favorite brew. This high-quality ceramic mug features the hilarious caption: “My Ancestors Came from Wisconsin. That explains a lot about my love for brats, cheese, beer and more beer!”
LOCAL HISTORY

Discover Jefferson: History, News, Travel, and Stories

Explore the events, newspaper stories, people, and moments that shaped Jefferson through the years.

1854 - Jefferson
Jefferson, a township in the S. W. central part of Jefferson co., Wisconsin, intersected by Rock river. Population, 1610.

Jefferson, a thriving post-village of Jefferson township, capital of Jefferson county, Wisconsin, on the left or E. bank of Rock river, at the mouth of the Crawfish river, 40 miles E. by S. from Madison. The valley of Rock river has a high reputation for fertility, and the banks of the river are remarkable for picturesque beauty. Jefferson has a fine water-power, and is a place of active business. It contains 2 churches, 10 stores, and 4 mills. The Rock River Valley railroad is located through this village. Population in 1853, about 1000.
1895 - Jefferson
Jefferson, a post-town, capital of Jefferson co., Wis., in a township of the same name, and on Rock River, at the mouth of the Crawfish River, about 50 miles W. of Milwaukee, and on the Chicago & Northwestern Railroad, 25 miles N.N.E. of Janesville, and 13 miles S. by W. of Water town. It has 8 churches, a national bank, 1 other bank, the Jefferson Liberal Institute, a woollen-mill, a flouring mill, 2 tanneries, a foundry, a chair-factory, and a news paper office. Pop. in 1880,2115; in 1890,2287.
1916
Jefferson, a banking city, capital of Jefferson co., Wis., on the Rock River, at the mouth of the Crawfish River, and on the Chicago and Northwestern R., 25 miles NNE. of Janesville. It has woollen- and fiouring-mills, tanneries, foundries and machine-shops, and manufactories of furniture, farming-implements, boots and shoes, chairs, etc Pop. in 1890, 2287 ; in 1900, 2584.
Here's a list of places to go and things to do in Jefferson:
Riverwalk

Take a stroll along the Rock River on the Riverwalk. It's a beautiful and peaceful path, perfect for a leisurely walk or a romantic evening.

Jefferson County Fair Park

Check out events and fairs happening at the Jefferson County Fair Park. They host a variety of events throughout the year, including fairs, concerts, and festivals.

Hoover's Hometown Days

If you're in town during Hoover's Hometown Days, it's a must-attend. The festival celebrates the life and accomplishments of Herbert Hoover, the 31st President of the United States, who spent much of his early life in West Branch, Iowa.

Parks and Recreation

Explore the local parks. Jefferson has several parks where you can enjoy a picnic, play some sports, or simply relax. Rotary Waterfront Park is a nice spot to enjoy the outdoors.

Jefferson Golf Course

If you're a golf enthusiast, try the Jefferson Golf Course. It's a scenic 18-hole course that caters to all skill levels.

Historical Walking...
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GENEALOGY IN JEFFERSON

Discover YOUR Roots: Jefferson Ancestry

Explore ancestors connected to Jefferson through births, deaths, marriages, cemeteries, and local genealogy resources.

BIRTHS & DEATHS

Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Jefferson, Wisconsin, USA

We currently have information about 6 ancestors who were born or died in Jefferson.

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Updated: 10/12/2023 4:12:01 PM
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