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Cities and Towns in Lafayette County, Wisconsin

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Founded in 1846, Lafayette County is one of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin. Historically, Lafayette County was formed from Iowa County. The city of Darlington is the county seat. With FIPS code of 65, Lafayette County has a population of 16,784 and area of 633.59 square miles (1,641 km²).

 

List of all cities in Lafayette County, WI alphabetically

  • Argyle, WI
  • Belmont, WI
  • Benton, WI
  • Blanchardville, WI
  • Darlington, WI
  • Gratiot, WI
  • Shullsburg, WI
  • South Wayne, WI
  • Woodford, WI

Major Cities and Towns in Lafayette County, Wisconsin

Darlington

  • Area: 1.92 square miles
  • Population: 2,415 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 53530
  • Latitude and Longitude: 42.6839° N, 90.1148° W

Location and History

Darlington, the county seat of Lafayette County, is nestled along the Pecatonica River in southwestern Wisconsin. The city was established in the 1830s during the lead mining boom and quickly became a central hub for the surrounding agricultural region. Originally named after one of its founders, Joshua Darling, Darlington developed into a bustling market town with a strong community spirit. Its strategic location along the river facilitated trade and transportation, contributing to its growth. Over time, Darlington expanded its economy beyond mining to include dairy farming and other agricultural activities. The city is known for its well-preserved historic downtown, featuring charming 19th-century architecture that reflects its rich heritage.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Darlington is served by the Darlington Community School District, with Darlington High School being the primary educational institution. The city is home to several notable landmarks, including the Lafayette County Courthouse, a historic building that showcases classical architectural elements and serves as the center of county government. The Pecatonica River Trail, which runs through Darlington, offers opportunities for biking, hiking, and enjoying the scenic beauty of the region. The annual Darlington Canoe Festival, held every summer, is a major community event featuring a canoe race on the river, a parade, and various family-friendly activities. Another key site is the Veterans Memorial Park, which honors local veterans and provides recreational facilities for residents and visitors.

Shullsburg

  • Area: 1.15 square miles
  • Population: 1,180 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 53586
  • Latitude and Longitude: 42.5731° N, 90.2332° W

Location and History

Shullsburg, one of the oldest settlements in Lafayette County, is located in the southwestern part of the county near the Illinois border. The town was founded in the early 1820s during the lead mining rush by Jesse Shull, a prominent fur trader and miner, from whom the town gets its name. Shullsburg rapidly developed as a mining town, with its fortunes tied to the extraction of lead and zinc. The town’s rich history is reflected in its well-preserved downtown, which features many buildings from the 19th century. After the decline of mining, Shullsburg transitioned into a quiet agricultural community, with dairy farming becoming a key part of its economy.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Shullsburg is served by the Shullsburg School District, with Shullsburg High School being the main educational institution. The town is known for its historic charm, with the Shullsburg Historic District listed on the National Register of Historic Places, showcasing buildings that date back to the early 1800s. A significant landmark is the Badger Mine and Museum, where visitors can tour an original lead mine and learn about the town’s mining heritage. The Shullsburg Creamery, a local cheese factory, continues the town’s tradition of dairy farming and is a popular destination for cheese lovers. Shullsburg’s annual events, such as the Cheesefest and Fourth of July celebrations, reflect the town’s close-knit community and agricultural roots.

Belmont

  • Area: 0.85 square miles
  • Population: 986 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 53510
  • Latitude and Longitude: 42.7386° N, 90.3389° W

Location and History

Belmont is a small village located in the northwestern part of Lafayette County. The village holds a special place in Wisconsin’s history as the site of the first territorial capitol. Belmont was founded in 1836 when the Wisconsin Territory was established, and it briefly served as the territorial capital. Although the capital was soon moved to Madison, Belmont continued to thrive as a small agricultural community. The village has maintained its historical significance, with several sites commemorating its early role in the state’s history. Today, Belmont is known for its rich history, quiet rural atmosphere, and strong sense of community.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Belmont is served by the Belmont Community School District, with Belmont High School being the primary educational institution. A key landmark in the village is the First Capitol Historic Site, which preserves the original buildings where Wisconsin’s territorial legislature first convened. This site offers visitors a glimpse into the early days of the state’s formation and is a significant part of Wisconsin’s heritage. The village also has a strong agricultural base, with local farms contributing to the economy and providing fresh produce to the community. Belmont’s annual events, such as the Community Fair and the Belmont Historical Day, celebrate the village’s history and community spirit, drawing residents and visitors alike to this historic corner of Wisconsin.

Benton

  • Area: 0.67 square miles
  • Population: 955 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 53803
  • Latitude and Longitude: 42.5714° N, 90.3863° W

Location and History

Benton is a small village located in the southwestern part of Lafayette County, near the border with Illinois. The village was established in the early 19th century during the lead mining boom and was named after Thomas Hart Benton, a U.S. Senator who supported westward expansion. Benton quickly developed as a mining community, with numerous lead and zinc mines operating in the area. After the decline of mining, Benton transitioned into a quiet agricultural village, with farming becoming the mainstay of its economy. The village’s history is still evident in its landscape, with remnants of old mines and historic buildings scattered throughout the area.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Benton is served by the Benton School District, with Benton High School being the primary educational institution. The village is home to several historical landmarks, including the St. Patrick’s Church, a beautiful stone structure built in the Gothic Revival style that reflects the Irish heritage of many of Benton’s early settlers. Another significant site is the Benton Historic Mining District, where visitors can learn about the village’s mining past and explore some of the old mine sites. Benton also has a strong community spirit, with annual events like the Benton Labor Day Picnic, which features a parade, games, and other activities that bring the community together. The village’s small-town charm and rich history make it a unique and welcoming place in Lafayette County.

Blanchardville

  • Area: 0.92 square miles
  • Population: 799 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 53516
  • Latitude and Longitude: 42.8114° N, 89.8618° W

Location and History

Blanchardville is a small village located in the northeastern part of Lafayette County, along the banks of the Pecatonica River. The village was founded in 1840 by Alvin Blanchard, a millwright who established a sawmill and gristmill along the river, which became the focal point for the community’s development. Blanchardville grew as a small agricultural and milling community, serving the surrounding rural area. The village’s location along the river provided natural resources and power for the mills, which were essential to the early settlers. Today, Blanchardville is known for its picturesque setting, historic buildings, and strong sense of community.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Blanchardville is served by the Pecatonica Area School District, with Pecatonica High School being the main educational institution. A key landmark in the village is the Blanchardville Historic District, which includes several 19th-century buildings that reflect the village’s early development. The Pecatonica River provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and other water-based activities, with McKellar Park offering a peaceful setting for picnics and community events. Blanchardville’s annual events, such as the Pecatonica Valley Antique Days and the Blanchardville Fourth of July celebration, highlight the village’s rich history and community spirit. The village’s scenic beauty, combined with its historic charm, makes Blanchardville a beloved place for residents and a pleasant destination for visitors.

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