Cities and Towns in Fond du Lac County, Wisconsin
Founded in 1836, Fond du Lac County is one of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin. Historically, Fond du Lac County was formed from Brown County. The city of Fond du Lac is the county seat. With FIPS code of 39, Fond du Lac County has a population of 104,362 and area of 719.55 square miles (1,864 km²).
List of all cities in Fond du Lac County, WI alphabetically
- Brandon, WI
- Campbellsport, WI
- Eden, WI
- Eldorado, WI
- Fairwater, WI
- Fond Du Lac, WI
- Malone, WI
- Mount Calvary, WI
- Oakfield, WI
- Ripon, WI
- Rosendale, WI
- Saint Cloud, WI
- Van Dyne, WI
Major Cities and Towns in Fond du Lac County, Wisconsin
Fond du Lac
Overview
- Area: 20.11 square miles
- Population: 43,021
- Zip Codes: 54935, 54936, 54937
- Latitude: 43.7730° N
- Longitude: 88.4468° W
Location and History
Fond du Lac, the county seat of Fond du Lac County, is located at the southern tip of Lake Winnebago, Wisconsin’s largest inland lake. The city was founded in 1836, and its name, which means “Foot of the Lake” in French, reflects its strategic position at the lake’s end. Fond du Lac quickly grew into a significant hub for transportation and commerce due to its access to both water and land routes. The city’s early economy was driven by agriculture, milling, and manufacturing, with the nearby lake providing a natural resource for trade and recreation. Over the years, Fond du Lac has evolved into a vibrant community with a diversified economy, including manufacturing, healthcare, and education sectors.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Fond du Lac is served by the Fond du Lac School District, with Fond du Lac High School being the largest public school in the area. The city is also home to Marian University and Moraine Park Technical College, which contribute to the city’s educational landscape. Notable landmarks in Fond du Lac include Lakeside Park, which offers stunning views of Lake Winnebago and various recreational activities, and the historic Galloway House and Village, which provides a glimpse into the city’s past. Additionally, the Fond du Lac County Fairgrounds host various events throughout the year, including the popular Fond du Lac County Fair.
Ripon
Overview
- Area: 5.03 square miles
- Population: 7,733
- Zip Codes: 54971
- Latitude: 43.8422° N
- Longitude: 88.8382° W
Location and History
Ripon is a historic city located in the western part of Fond du Lac County. It was founded in 1849 by a group of settlers led by David P. Mapes, who named the city after Ripon, England. Ripon gained national prominence as the birthplace of the Republican Party, with the Little White Schoolhouse serving as the site of the party’s founding in 1854. The city’s early economy was primarily based on agriculture, but it quickly developed into a center for education and industry. Ripon College, established in 1851, played a crucial role in the city’s development, attracting students and faculty from across the country. Today, Ripon maintains its historical charm while continuing to grow as a small but vibrant community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ripon is served by the Ripon Area School District, with Ripon High School being the main public high school. The city is also home to Ripon College, a private liberal arts college known for its strong academic programs and historic campus. Key landmarks in Ripon include the Little White Schoolhouse, a National Historic Landmark, and the Ceresco Prairie Conservancy, which offers hiking trails and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Ripon’s downtown area, with its historic buildings and unique shops, is another highlight, reflecting the city’s rich history and community spirit.
Waupun
Overview
- Area: 4.44 square miles
- Population: 11,340
- Zip Codes: 53963
- Latitude: 43.6339° N
- Longitude: 88.7293° W
Location and History
Waupun, located on the border of Fond du Lac and Dodge counties, is known for its rich history and scenic landscapes. The city was founded in 1839 by Seymour Wilcox, who chose the site due to its fertile land and abundant water resources. Waupun’s name, derived from the Ojibwe word “Waubun,” meaning “dawn,” reflects its founders’ vision of the city as a place of new beginnings. The city’s early economy was based on agriculture, but it also became known for its stone quarrying industry. Waupun is often referred to as the “City of Sculpture” due to its numerous public art installations, many of which were created by Clarence Addison Shaler, a local sculptor and philanthropist.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Waupun is served by the Waupun Area School District, with Waupun High School being the main educational institution. The city is also home to several parochial schools. Notable landmarks include the Shaler Park, which features several of Shaler’s sculptures, and the Horicon Marsh, a nearby wildlife refuge known for its birdwatching opportunities. The Waupun Heritage Museum offers insights into the city’s history, and the Rock River Country Club provides recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. Additionally, the historic Central Wisconsin Christian School reflects the community’s strong educational and religious values.
North Fond du Lac
Overview
- Area: 2.78 square miles
- Population: 5,195
- Zip Codes: 54937
- Latitude: 43.8003° N
- Longitude: 88.4862° W
Location and History
North Fond du Lac is a village located immediately north of the city of Fond du Lac in Fond du Lac County. The village was established in the late 19th century as a residential area for workers employed in the nearby industrial facilities in Fond du Lac. Its growth was closely tied to the expansion of the railroad industry, with many residents working for the railroad companies that had significant operations in the area. Over time, North Fond du Lac developed its own identity, with a focus on community and family-friendly living. The village is known for its strong sense of community and its commitment to maintaining a high quality of life for its residents.
Major Schools and Landmarks
North Fond du Lac is served by the School District of North Fond du Lac, with Horace Mann High School being the primary public high school. The village is also home to several parks, including Optimist Park, which offers sports facilities and playgrounds, and the Village Park, which hosts community events throughout the year. The North Fond du Lac Historical Society maintains a small museum that showcases the village’s history and its connection to the railroad industry. The nearby Lakeside Park in Fond du Lac is also a popular destination for residents, offering a wide range of recreational activities along the shores of Lake Winnebago.