Cities and Towns in Eau Claire County, Wisconsin
Founded in 1856, Eau Claire County is one of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin. Historically, Eau Claire County was formed from Chippewa County. The city of Eau Claire is the county seat. With FIPS code of 35, Eau Claire County has a population of 106,452 and area of 637.98 square miles (1,652 km²).
List of all cities in Eau Claire County, WI alphabetically
- Altoona, WI
- Augusta, WI
- Eau Claire, WI
- Fairchild, WI
- Fall Creek, WI
Major Cities and Towns in Eau Claire County, Wisconsin
Eau Claire
Overview
- Area: 34.14 square miles
- Population: 69,421
- Zip Codes: 54701, 54702, 54703
- Latitude: 44.8113° N
- Longitude: 91.4985° W
Location and History
Eau Claire, the largest city and county seat of Eau Claire County, is located at the confluence of the Chippewa and Eau Claire Rivers in western Wisconsin. The city was established in 1856, capitalizing on its strategic location along the rivers, which became crucial for the lumber industry. Eau Claire quickly grew as a center for logging, with the rivers providing an efficient means of transporting logs to market. As the lumber era waned, Eau Claire diversified its economy, becoming a regional hub for manufacturing, education, and healthcare. The city’s name, derived from the French “clear water,” reflects the pristine rivers that define its landscape. Today, Eau Claire is known for its vibrant cultural scene, including music festivals, art galleries, and a thriving local economy supported by the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Eau Claire is home to the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, one of the leading institutions in the region, which significantly contributes to the city’s educational and cultural landscape. Major schools include Memorial High School and North High School. The city boasts several notable landmarks, such as Carson Park, a popular recreational area located on an island in Half Moon Lake, and the Paul Bunyan Logging Camp Museum, which highlights the city’s rich logging history.
Altoona
Overview
- Area: 4.64 square miles
- Population: 7,889
- Zip Code: 54720
- Latitude: 44.8086° N
- Longitude: 91.4421° W
Location and History
Altoona is a small yet growing city located just east of Eau Claire in Eau Claire County. It was established in the late 19th century, originally serving as a railroad town due to its proximity to the rail lines that passed through the region. The city’s location along the Union Pacific Railroad made it an essential hub for transportation and logistics, leading to steady growth over the decades. Today, Altoona is often considered a suburb of Eau Claire, but it maintains its unique identity with a focus on community development and outdoor recreation. The city’s name reflects the rolling hills of the area, reminiscent of the Italian town of Altoona.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Altoona is served by the Altoona School District, which includes Altoona High School, known for its strong academic programs and extracurricular activities. The city is also home to River Prairie Park, a recently developed area featuring trails, green spaces, and event facilities, making it a focal point for community gatherings. Altoona’s Lakefront Park on Lake Altoona is another popular spot, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and picnicking.
Augusta
Overview
- Area: 2.14 square miles
- Population: 1,548
- Zip Code: 54722
- Latitude: 44.6811° N
- Longitude: 91.1183° W
Location and History
Augusta is a small city located in the southeastern part of Eau Claire County. It was founded in the mid-19th century, during a period of significant migration to the Midwest. The city’s economy was historically based on agriculture, with surrounding farmlands playing a crucial role in its development. Augusta’s location near the Eau Claire River provided water resources that were vital for farming and later for small-scale industry. Over the years, Augusta has retained its small-town charm, with a strong sense of community and a slower pace of life compared to the more urbanized areas of the county. The city is named after Augusta, Maine, reflecting the New England origins of many of its early settlers.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Augusta is served by the Augusta School District, which includes Augusta High School. The city is known for its proximity to the Dells Mill and Museum, one of the most photographed sites in Wisconsin, featuring a historic gristmill that dates back to the 1860s. Other notable landmarks include Lake Eau Claire, a popular destination for fishing and boating, and Coon Fork Lake County Park, which offers camping and hiking opportunities in a picturesque setting.
Fall Creek
Overview
- Area: 1.98 square miles
- Population: 1,346
- Zip Code: 54742
- Latitude: 44.7641° N
- Longitude: 91.2766° W
Location and History
Fall Creek is a small village located southeast of Eau Claire in Eau Claire County. The village was established in the late 19th century, primarily as a farming community. Its name comes from a nearby creek that features a small waterfall, a natural feature that early settlers found appealing. Over the years, Fall Creek has maintained its rural character, with agriculture remaining a significant part of the local economy. The village’s location along the Eau Claire River provided early settlers with ample water for irrigation and milling, contributing to its steady growth. Despite its small size, Fall Creek has a tight-knit community and is known for its peaceful environment and proximity to larger cities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Fall Creek is served by the Fall Creek School District, which includes Fall Creek High School, known for its strong academics and community involvement. The village is home to Keller Park, a popular spot for local events, and the nearby Beaver Creek Reserve, a nature reserve offering hiking, birdwatching, and environmental education programs. Fall Creek is also close to the historic Fall Creek Falls, which offers scenic views and a glimpse into the area’s natural beauty.
