Cities and Towns in Langlade County, Wisconsin
Founded in 1879, Langlade County is one of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin. Historically, Langlade County was formed from Oconto County. The city of Antigo is the county seat. With FIPS code of 67, Langlade County has a population of 19,502 and area of 870.64 square miles (2,255 km²).
List of all cities in Langlade County, WI alphabetically
- Antigo, WI
- Bryant, WI
- Deerbrook, WI
- Elcho, WI
- Elton, WI
- Pearson, WI
- Phlox, WI
- Pickerel, WI
- Summit Lake, WI
- White Lake, WI
Major Cities and Towns in Langlade County, Wisconsin
Antigo
- Area: 6.62 square miles
- Population: 7,934 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54409
- Latitude and Longitude: 45.1411° N, 89.1523° W
Location and History
Antigo, the county seat and largest city in Langlade County, is located in the north-central part of Wisconsin. The city was founded in 1876 by Francis A. Deleglise, a French nobleman, and named after the Chippewa word “Anitigoo,” meaning “evergreen.” Antigo grew rapidly as a logging and sawmill town due to the abundance of timber in the surrounding forests. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further boosted the city’s growth, turning it into a regional center for agriculture and trade. Over the years, Antigo diversified its economy, with manufacturing, particularly in the dairy and potato industries, becoming significant contributors. Today, Antigo is known for its historic downtown, vibrant community life, and access to outdoor recreation.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Antigo is served by the Unified School District of Antigo, with Antigo High School being the main educational institution. The city is home to several notable landmarks, including the Langlade County Historical Society Museum, which is housed in a historic Carnegie library building and offers exhibits on the region’s history. Another key site is Peaceful Valley Park, a large green space that hosts community events, festivals, and recreational activities. The Clara R. McKenna Aquatic Center and the Antigo Lake Park are popular spots for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Antigo also celebrates its agricultural heritage with events such as the Langlade County Fair, which features livestock shows, entertainment, and exhibitions highlighting the area’s farming community.
Elcho
- Area: 1.27 square miles
- Population: 339 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54428
- Latitude and Longitude: 45.4400° N, 89.1787° W
Location and History
Elcho is a small town located in the northern part of Langlade County, along U.S. Highway 45. The town was established in the late 19th century as a logging community, taking advantage of the dense forests and proximity to transportation routes. Elcho was named after a Scottish estate, reflecting the influence of European settlers in the area. As the logging industry declined, Elcho transitioned into a quiet, rural community with a focus on agriculture and tourism. The town is known for its natural beauty, including numerous lakes and forests, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Elcho is served by the Elcho School District, with Elcho High School providing education for local students. The town is home to several natural landmarks, including Post Lake and Upper and Lower Post Lake, which offer excellent opportunities for fishing, boating, and water sports. The Elcho Community Pavilion is a central gathering spot for events and activities, including the annual Elcho Fourth of July celebration, which features fireworks, a parade, and family-friendly entertainment. The nearby Nicolet National Forest provides additional opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring the scenic wilderness. Elcho’s peaceful setting and access to outdoor recreation make it an attractive place for residents and visitors seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle.
White Lake
- Area: 1.10 square miles
- Population: 352 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54491
- Latitude and Longitude: 45.1564° N, 88.7596° W
Location and History
White Lake is a small village located in the southeastern part of Langlade County, along the shores of its namesake, White Lake. The village was established in the early 20th century, primarily as a logging and milling town, with the lake providing power for the mills. White Lake was once home to the Yawkey-Bissell Lumber Company, which played a significant role in the village’s early development. As the logging industry declined, White Lake transitioned into a quiet residential community with a focus on tourism and outdoor recreation, thanks to its scenic location and natural resources.
Major Schools and Landmarks
White Lake is served by the White Lake School District, with White Lake High School being the primary educational institution. The village is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, particularly White Lake itself, which offers opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating. The White Lake Beach is a popular spot for residents and visitors during the summer months. The village is also home to the Wolf River State Trail, which provides access to miles of trails for hiking, biking, and snowmobiling. The White Lake Historical Society Museum preserves the history of the village and its logging heritage, offering exhibits on the early days of the community. The annual White Lake Water Carnival is a major event, featuring water sports, parades, and entertainment that celebrate the village’s connection to the lake and outdoor activities.
Langlade
- Area: 1.02 square miles
- Population: 436 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54491
- Latitude and Longitude: 45.2931° N, 88.6623° W
Location and History
Langlade is a small town located in the southeastern part of Langlade County, near the headwaters of the Wolf River. The town was named after Charles de Langlade, a French-Canadian fur trader and military leader who played a significant role in the early history of Wisconsin. Langlade developed primarily as a logging and agricultural community, with the river providing a vital transportation route for timber. Over the years, the town has remained a small, rural community with a strong connection to the surrounding natural environment, particularly the forests and waterways that define the area.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Langlade is part of the White Lake School District, with students typically attending schools in nearby White Lake. The town is known for its scenic beauty, with the Wolf River offering opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. A key landmark in Langlade is the Langlade County Wolf River Campground, which provides access to the river and facilities for camping and outdoor activities. The nearby Nicolet National Forest offers additional opportunities for hiking, wildlife observation, and exploring the natural landscape. Langlade’s rural character and proximity to the river and forest make it an ideal location for those seeking a peaceful, nature-oriented lifestyle. The town’s annual events, such as local fairs and outdoor festivals, reflect its strong sense of community and connection to the land.
Summit Lake
- Area: 2.2 square miles
- Population: 144 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54485
- Latitude and Longitude: 45.4083° N, 89.2173° W
Location and History
Summit Lake is a small unincorporated community located in the northern part of Langlade County, near the shores of Summit Lake. The community developed in the late 19th century, primarily as a summer resort destination for those seeking to escape the heat of the cities. The area’s cool climate, pristine lake, and surrounding forests made it a popular spot for vacationers. Over time, Summit Lake transitioned into a year-round community, though it remains known for its summer tourism. The community is characterized by its rustic charm, with many cottages and cabins dotting the lakeshore.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Summit Lake is served by the Elcho School District, with students attending schools in nearby Elcho. The community’s main attraction is Summit Lake itself, which offers excellent opportunities for swimming, fishing, boating, and other water-based activities. The Summit Lake Beach and Park are popular spots for picnicking and outdoor recreation, drawing both locals and visitors during the warmer months. The nearby Harrison Hills Trail provides access to extensive snowmobiling and ATV trails, making Summit Lake a destination for outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year. The community also hosts several annual events, including fishing tournaments and local fairs, which bring residents together and celebrate the area’s natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Summit Lake’s peaceful setting and access to outdoor activities make it a desirable place for both permanent residents and seasonal visitors.