Cities and Towns in Jackson County, Wisconsin

Founded in 1853, Jackson County is one of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin. Historically, Jackson County was formed from La Crosse County. The city of Black River Falls is the county seat. With FIPS code of 53, Jackson County has a population of 21,121 and area of 987.72 square miles (2,558 km²).

 

List of all cities in Jackson County, WI alphabetically

  • Alma Center, WI
  • Black River Falls, WI
  • Hixton, WI
  • Melrose, WI
  • Merrillan, WI
  • Millston, WI
  • Taylor, WI

Major Cities and Towns in Jackson County, Wisconsin

Black River Falls

Area, Population, and Coordinates

  • Area: 4.20 square miles
  • Population: 3,622 (as of the last census)
  • ZIP Codes: 54615
  • Latitude and Longitude:
    • Latitude: 44.2947° N
    • Longitude: 90.8410° W

Location and History

Black River Falls is the county seat of Jackson County, located in west-central Wisconsin. The city is strategically situated along the Black River, which played a crucial role in its early development. Established in the mid-19th century, Black River Falls quickly became a prominent logging center due to its location near vast forests and the river, which facilitated the transport of timber. The city’s history is marked by resilience, as it has endured several floods, the most notable being the catastrophic flood of 1911, which destroyed much of the downtown area. The city was rebuilt and has since evolved into a hub for tourism, outdoor recreation, and local commerce, while still retaining its historical charm.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Black River Falls is served by the Black River Falls School District, which includes the Black River Falls High School, Middle School, and several elementary schools. A significant landmark in the city is the Andrew Blackhawk Memorial Powwow Grounds, a site of cultural importance to the Ho-Chunk Nation. The historic Jackson County Courthouse is another notable landmark, showcasing classic architectural styles from the early 20th century. The city is also home to Wazee Lake, a popular destination for scuba diving and fishing, known for its clear waters and scenic surroundings.

Alma Center

Area, Population, and Coordinates

  • Area: 1.01 square miles
  • Population: 503 (as of the last census)
  • ZIP Codes: 54611
  • Latitude and Longitude:
    • Latitude: 44.4378° N
    • Longitude: 90.9143° W

Location and History

Alma Center is a small village in Jackson County, Wisconsin, known for its quiet, rural charm. The village was established in the late 19th century, with agriculture serving as the primary economic activity. Alma Center has remained a tight-knit community over the years, with its history deeply connected to the surrounding farmland. The village’s name is believed to be derived from the Battle of Alma during the Crimean War, reflecting the historical influence of that period. Over the decades, Alma Center has maintained its agricultural roots, with dairy farming and crop production continuing to play a significant role in the local economy. The village offers a peaceful, small-town atmosphere, making it a desirable place for those seeking a quiet rural lifestyle.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Alma Center is part of the Alma Center-Humbird-Merrillan School District, which serves the educational needs of the area. Lincoln Elementary School and Lincoln High School are the primary educational institutions in the village. A key landmark in Alma Center is the historic Alma Center Mill Pond, which provides a scenic spot for fishing and picnicking. The village also hosts several community events throughout the year, such as the annual Independence Day celebration, which brings residents together and highlights the village’s strong sense of community.

Melrose

Area, Population, and Coordinates

  • Area: 0.98 square miles
  • Population: 503 (as of the last census)
  • ZIP Codes: 54642
  • Latitude and Longitude:
    • Latitude: 44.1278° N
    • Longitude: 91.0109° W

Location and History

Melrose is a small village located in Jackson County, Wisconsin, along the Black River. Founded in the late 19th century, Melrose was initially established as a farming community, with the river providing vital resources for agriculture and transport. The village was named after Melrose, Scotland, by early settlers who sought to bring a piece of their homeland to America. Over time, Melrose grew as a small agricultural hub, with its residents primarily engaged in farming, logging, and small-scale industry. Today, Melrose remains a quiet village, known for its picturesque setting along the river and its strong sense of community. The village has preserved much of its historical charm, with several buildings dating back to its early days still standing.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Melrose is part of the Melrose-Mindoro School District, which includes Melrose Elementary School and Melrose-Mindoro High School, providing education for the local community. A notable landmark in Melrose is the Black River, which not only serves as a scenic backdrop for the village but also offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and other recreational activities. The village is also home to several historical sites, including old farmhouses and barns that reflect the area’s rich agricultural heritage.