Cities and Towns in Ashland County, Wisconsin
Founded in 1860, Ashland County is one of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin. Historically, Ashland County was formed from La Pointe County. The city of Ashland is the county seat. With FIPS code of 3, Ashland County has a population of 16,107 and area of 1,045.04 square miles (2,707 km²).
List of all cities in Ashland County, WI alphabetically
- Ashland, WI
- Butternut, WI
- Clam Lake, WI
- Glidden, WI
- High Bridge, WI
- La Pointe, WI
- Marengo, WI
- Mellen, WI
- Odanah, WI
Major Cities and Towns in Ashland County, Wisconsin
City of Ashland
Overview
- Area: 13.7 square miles
- Population: Approximately 7,900
- ZIP Codes: 54806
- Latitude: 46.5895° N
- Longitude: 90.8838° W
The City of Ashland, located on the shores of Lake Superior in northwestern Wisconsin, serves as the county seat of Ashland County. Founded in 1854, Ashland quickly became a key hub for the lumber and shipping industries due to its strategic location on the lake and its access to vast forests. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further spurred economic growth, making Ashland a bustling port town. The city’s historic downtown district reflects its rich past, with well-preserved buildings dating back to the late 1800s. Today, Ashland is known for its strong community spirit, outdoor recreation, and its role as a gateway to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ashland is served by the Ashland School District, which includes Ashland High School, Middle School, and several elementary schools. Northland College, a private liberal arts college with an emphasis on environmental studies, is also located in the city. Major landmarks include the Ashland Ore Dock, a symbol of the city’s industrial heritage, and the Ashland Mural Walk, which features murals depicting the region’s history. The Chequamegon Bay provides ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water activities, contributing to Ashland’s reputation as an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.
Town of La Pointe
Overview
- Area: 77.4 square miles
- Population: Approximately 260
- ZIP Codes: 54850
- Latitude: 46.7794° N
- Longitude: 90.7848° W
La Pointe, located on Madeline Island, is one of the oldest European settlements in Wisconsin, with its origins tracing back to the 17th century when it was a French fur trading post. The town of La Pointe was officially established in the 19th century and has a unique cultural heritage influenced by its Native American and French history. Madeline Island, the largest of the Apostle Islands, is known for its stunning natural beauty, with miles of pristine shoreline, forests, and historic sites. La Pointe is a small, tight-knit community that sees a significant influx of visitors during the summer months when tourism peaks.
Major Schools and Landmarks
The town is served by the La Pointe School, a small elementary school that caters to the island’s children, with older students attending schools on the mainland. Landmarks in La Pointe include the Madeline Island Museum, which offers insights into the island’s rich history, and Big Bay State Park, known for its sandy beaches, hiking trails, and camping facilities. The town’s historic Catholic mission, established in the 1830s, is another significant site, reflecting the long-standing cultural and spiritual heritage of the area.
City of Mellen
Overview
- Area: 1.31 square miles
- Population: Approximately 700
- ZIP Codes: 54546
- Latitude: 46.3227° N
- Longitude: 90.6602° W
Mellen is a small city located in the southern part of Ashland County, near the Penokee Mountains and the Chequamegon National Forest. Established in the late 19th century, Mellen grew as a logging town, with its economy primarily driven by the timber industry. The city’s location along the Bad River also made it an important site for sawmills. Over time, Mellen has transitioned from a logging hub to a quiet rural community, known for its access to outdoor recreation and its proximity to Copper Falls State Park, one of Wisconsin’s most beautiful natural areas.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Mellen is served by the Mellen School District, which includes Mellen High School and Elementary School. Key landmarks include Copper Falls State Park, famous for its stunning waterfalls and hiking trails, and the Penokee Range, offering outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and birdwatching. The city also hosts several annual events, such as the Mellen Pumpkin Fest, which celebrates the fall harvest with activities and community gatherings.
Town of Marengo
Overview
- Area: 51.8 square miles
- Population: Approximately 390
- ZIP Codes: 54855
- Latitude: 46.3550° N
- Longitude: 90.7624° W
The Town of Marengo is located in the southwestern part of Ashland County, nestled within the Chequamegon National Forest. Established in the late 19th century, Marengo’s history is closely tied to logging and agriculture, with vast forests and fertile lands surrounding the community. The town is named after the Marengo River, which flows through the area, providing both natural beauty and resources for early settlers. Today, Marengo remains a small, rural community with a strong connection to its natural surroundings, making it a peaceful retreat for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Marengo is part of the Ashland School District, with students attending schools in nearby Ashland. Significant landmarks in the town include the Marengo River and the surrounding Chequamegon National Forest, which offer ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and hunting. The town also has a rich agricultural heritage, with several farms that contribute to the local economy. The Marengo Town Hall serves as a central gathering place for community events and meetings, reinforcing the town’s close-knit atmosphere.
Town of Glidden
Overview
- Area: 1.62 square miles
- Population: Approximately 500
- ZIP Codes: 54527
- Latitude: 46.1331° N
- Longitude: 90.5762° W
Glidden, located in the southeastern part of Ashland County, is a small unincorporated community known for its rich history and connection to the logging industry. Established in the late 19th century, Glidden was named after the barbed wire inventor, Joseph Glidden. The community served as a key center for logging and sawmills during the peak of the timber industry in northern Wisconsin. Today, Glidden is a quiet community surrounded by forests and lakes, making it an attractive location for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful, rural lifestyle.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Glidden is part of the Chequamegon School District, with students attending the Chequamegon High School in nearby Park Falls. Landmarks in Glidden include the Glidden Historical Museum, which preserves the history of the area, and the nearby Chippewa River, offering opportunities for fishing and canoeing. The community is also close to the Chequamegon National Forest, providing access to miles of trails and wilderness areas. Glidden hosts several community events throughout the year, including the annual Logger Days festival, celebrating the town’s logging heritage.
