Cities and Towns in Green County, Wisconsin
Founded in 1837, Green County is one of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin. Historically, Green County was formed from Iowa County and unorganized territory. The city of Monroe is the county seat. With FIPS code of 45, Green County has a population of 36,988 and area of 583.96 square miles (1,512 km²).
List of all cities in Green County, WI alphabetically
- Albany, WI
- Brodhead, WI
- Brooklyn, WI
- Browntown, WI
- Juda, WI
- Monroe, WI
- Monticello, WI
- New Glarus, WI
Major Cities and Towns in Green County, Wisconsin
Monroe
Overview
- Area: 4.83 square miles
- Population: 10,827
- Zip Codes: 53566
- Latitude: 42.6011° N
- Longitude: 89.6387° W
Location and History
Monroe, the county seat of Green County, is located in the southern part of Wisconsin, near the Illinois border. The city was founded in 1836 and named after James Monroe, the fifth President of the United States. Monroe quickly became a central hub for the agricultural industry, particularly dairy farming, which continues to play a significant role in the local economy. The city is often referred to as the “Swiss Cheese Capital of the USA” due to its strong Swiss heritage and its reputation for producing high-quality cheeses. Over the years, Monroe has maintained its small-town charm while evolving into a vibrant community with a rich cultural history.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Monroe is served by the Monroe School District, with Monroe High School being the primary educational institution. The city is also home to Blackhawk Technical College’s Monroe Campus, which offers a range of educational programs. Notable landmarks in Monroe include the historic Green County Courthouse, an architectural gem that dominates the downtown area, and the National Historic Cheesemaking Center, which celebrates the region’s cheesemaking heritage. Additionally, Monroe is famous for its annual Green County Cheese Days festival, which attracts visitors from all over the region to celebrate Swiss culture and the local dairy industry.
Brodhead
Overview
- Area: 1.86 square miles
- Population: 3,293
- Zip Codes: 53520
- Latitude: 42.6192° N
- Longitude: 89.3760° W
Location and History
Brodhead is a small city located in the northeastern part of Green County, Wisconsin. It was established in the mid-19th century and named after Edward Brodhead, a prominent figure in the construction of the Milwaukee and Mississippi Railroad. The railroad played a crucial role in the development of Brodhead, turning it into a significant transportation hub in the region. Agriculture, particularly dairy farming, has been the backbone of Brodhead’s economy since its founding. The Sugar River, which runs through the city, has also contributed to its growth, providing both a water source and opportunities for recreation.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Brodhead is served by the Brodhead School District, with Brodhead High School being the main educational institution. The city is home to several landmarks, including Veterans Memorial Park, which honors local veterans and serves as a community gathering place. The Brodhead Depot Museum, located in the restored train depot, offers a glimpse into the city’s railroad history. Additionally, the nearby Decatur Lake and the Sugar River provide excellent opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, canoeing, and hiking, making Brodhead a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.
New Glarus
Overview
- Area: 1.78 square miles
- Population: 2,172
- Zip Codes: 53574
- Latitude: 42.8147° N
- Longitude: 89.6357° W
Location and History
New Glarus, known as “America’s Little Switzerland,” is a small village in Green County. It was founded in 1845 by a group of Swiss immigrants seeking to escape economic hardships in their homeland. The settlers named the village after the Canton of Glarus in Switzerland. The Swiss heritage has had a profound influence on the village, which is evident in its architecture, traditions, and cultural events. New Glarus developed as a farming community, with dairy farming becoming particularly important. The village has also become known for its tourism industry, attracting visitors with its Swiss charm, festivals, and local breweries.
Major Schools and Landmarks
New Glarus is served by the New Glarus School District, with New Glarus High School providing education to local students. The village is home to several landmarks that reflect its Swiss heritage, including the Swiss Historical Village Museum, which offers a detailed look at the history of the early settlers. The New Glarus Brewing Company, known for its award-winning craft beers, is a major attraction in the area. Additionally, the village hosts various cultural events, such as the Wilhelm Tell Festival and Oktoberfest, celebrating its rich Swiss traditions and drawing visitors from across the country.
Monticello
Overview
- Area: 1.32 square miles
- Population: 1,213
- Zip Codes: 53570
- Latitude: 42.7478° N
- Longitude: 89.5942° W
Location and History
Monticello is a small village located in the northern part of Green County. The village was established in the mid-19th century and named after Thomas Jefferson’s Virginia estate, reflecting the settlers’ admiration for the former president. Like many communities in the region, Monticello developed as an agricultural hub, with dairy farming playing a central role in its economy. The village’s location along the Little Sugar River provided early settlers with fertile land and ample water resources, contributing to its steady growth. Monticello has maintained its small-town atmosphere while fostering a strong sense of community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Monticello is served by the Monticello School District, with Monticello High School being the main educational institution. The village is home to several landmarks, including the historic Monticello Depot, which now serves as a community center and museum. The Little Sugar River, which runs through the village, offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and hiking along the Sugar River State Trail. Monticello is also known for its annual Homecoming celebration, which brings the community together for parades, sports events, and other festivities, highlighting the village’s close-knit community spirit.
Albany
Overview
- Area: 1.13 square miles
- Population: 1,017
- Zip Codes: 53502
- Latitude: 42.7069° N
- Longitude: 89.4407° W
Location and History
Albany is a small village located in the northeastern part of Green County, along the banks of the Sugar River. The village was established in the mid-19th century and was named after Albany, New York, reflecting the origins of some of its early settlers. Albany developed as an agricultural community, with its location along the river providing fertile land for farming. Over time, the village expanded its economic base to include manufacturing and services, while maintaining its rural character. Albany is known for its scenic beauty, with the Sugar River playing a central role in both the village’s history and its current appeal.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Albany is served by the Albany School District, with Albany High School being the main educational institution. The village is home to several notable landmarks, including the Albany Historical Society Museum, which preserves the history of the village and its early settlers. The Sugar River, along with the nearby Albany Wildlife Area, offers excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation, including fishing, canoeing, and birdwatching. Albany’s annual Riverfest celebration is a highlight of the village’s social calendar, bringing together residents and visitors for a weekend of music, food, and family-friendly activities along the river.