Cities and Towns in Marinette County, Wisconsin

Founded in 1879, Marinette County is one of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin. Historically, Marinette County was formed from Oconto County. The city of Marinette is the county seat. With FIPS code of 75, Marinette County has a population of 41,875 and area of 1,399.35 square miles (3,624 km²).

 

List of all cities in Marinette County, WI alphabetically

  • Amberg, WI
  • Athelstane, WI
  • Coleman, WI
  • Crivitz, WI
  • Dunbar, WI
  • Goodman, WI
  • Marinette, WI
  • Niagara, WI
  • Pembine, WI
  • Peshtigo, WI
  • Porterfield, WI
  • Pound, WI
  • Wausaukee, WI

Major Cities and Towns in Marinette County, Wisconsin

Marinette

  • Area: 8.13 square miles
  • Population: 10,968 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 54143
  • Latitude and Longitude: 45.0990° N, 87.6304° W

Location and History

Marinette, the county seat of Marinette County, is located on the southwestern shore of Green Bay at the mouth of the Menominee River, directly across from Menominee, Michigan. The city was named after a French-Native American woman, Marie Antoinette Chevalier, also known as “Queen Marinette,” who was influential in the area’s early fur trading and logging industries. Established as a logging hub in the mid-19th century, Marinette grew rapidly due to its strategic location for transporting timber via the river and Great Lakes. By the late 19th century, the city had diversified into manufacturing, particularly in paper and shipbuilding, industries that remain vital to its economy today. Marinette is also known for its historic downtown and proximity to natural attractions, making it a regional center for commerce and tourism.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Marinette is served by the Marinette School District, with Marinette High School being the primary educational institution. The city is home to several significant landmarks, including the Marinette County Historical Logging Museum, which showcases the city’s rich logging history and the broader industrial heritage of the area. Another key site is the Marinette Marine Corporation, a major shipbuilding facility that has been integral to the local economy for decades. The Menominee River and adjacent Stephenson Island offer recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, and picnicking. The historic downtown area features a variety of shops, restaurants, and the Marinette Civic Center, which hosts community events and cultural activities.

Peshtigo

  • Area: 3.25 square miles
  • Population: 3,324 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 54157
  • Latitude and Longitude: 45.0536° N, 87.7487° W

Location and History

Peshtigo is a city located in the central part of Marinette County, known primarily for the tragic Peshtigo Fire of 1871, which remains the deadliest wildfire in American history, claiming over 1,200 lives. Despite this tragedy, Peshtigo rebuilt and continued to grow, primarily as a logging and industrial community. The city’s name is derived from a Native American term meaning “river of the wild goose.” Over time, Peshtigo diversified its economy, with industries such as manufacturing and agriculture playing significant roles in its development. Today, Peshtigo is a small, close-knit community with a deep respect for its history and a commitment to maintaining its unique character.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Peshtigo is served by the Peshtigo School District, with Peshtigo High School being the main educational institution. A key landmark in the city is the Peshtigo Fire Museum, located near the site of the original fire, which preserves the history of the 1871 disaster and its impact on the community. The museum includes a cemetery where many of the fire’s victims are buried, providing a poignant reminder of the event. The Peshtigo River runs through the city, offering opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. The city’s annual Peshtigo Historical Days festival celebrates local history with parades, historical reenactments, and community events that bring residents together.

Crivitz

  • Area: 2.55 square miles
  • Population: 984 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 54114
  • Latitude and Longitude: 45.2344° N, 88.0098° W

Location and History

Crivitz is a small village located in the northeastern part of Marinette County. The village was established in the late 19th century, named after a German town from which many of its early settlers originated. Crivitz grew primarily as a logging community, with its surrounding forests providing ample resources for the timber industry. Over time, the village transitioned into a popular tourist destination, known for its proximity to outdoor recreational opportunities in the nearby Peshtigo River State Forest and numerous lakes and rivers. Crivitz is also known as the “Gateway to the North,” reflecting its role as a starting point for those exploring the natural beauty of northern Wisconsin.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Crivitz is served by the Crivitz School District, with Crivitz High School being the primary educational institution. The village is known for its outdoor recreation, with the nearby High Falls and Caldron Falls reservoirs offering excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, and camping. A significant landmark in the village is the Crivitz Community Veterans Park, which honors local veterans and serves as a venue for community events. The village’s annual Crivitz Fourth of July celebration is a major event, featuring parades, fireworks, and family-friendly activities that draw residents and visitors alike. The surrounding forests and waterways make Crivitz a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts, whether for hunting, hiking, snowmobiling, or simply enjoying the natural environment.

Coleman

  • Area: 1.42 square miles
  • Population: 724 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 54112
  • Latitude and Longitude: 44.9414° N, 88.0348° W

Location and History

Coleman is a small village located in the southern part of Marinette County. The village was established in the late 19th century and was named after a local businessman, Louis Coleman, who played a significant role in its early development. Coleman grew as an agricultural community, with its economy centered around farming and related industries. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s further supported the village’s growth, making it a key stop for transporting agricultural products. Over the years, Coleman has maintained its rural character and strong community spirit, with a focus on preserving its agricultural heritage and small-town atmosphere.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Coleman is served by the Coleman School District, with Coleman High School being the main educational institution. The village is known for its close-knit community and commitment to maintaining its rural identity. A key landmark in Coleman is the Coleman Area Historical Society Museum, which preserves the history of the village and the surrounding area, with exhibits on early settlers, farming, and local industries. The village also hosts several annual events, including the Coleman Polka Days festival, which celebrates the area’s cultural heritage with music, dancing, and traditional foods. The surrounding countryside offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, and hiking, making Coleman a peaceful and welcoming community for residents and visitors alike.

Wausaukee

  • Area: 1.37 square miles
  • Population: 564 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 54177
  • Latitude and Longitude: 45.3803° N, 87.9559° W

Location and History

Wausaukee is a small village located in the northern part of Marinette County, along the banks of the Wausaukee River. The village was established in the late 19th century and was originally a lumbering town, with its name derived from the Menominee word meaning “river of pines.” The abundance of pine forests in the area made Wausaukee an important center for the logging industry, with sawmills and related businesses driving its early growth. As the logging industry declined, Wausaukee transitioned into a more diversified economy, with agriculture and tourism becoming increasingly important. The village is known for its picturesque setting and rich history, making it a charming destination for those seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Wausaukee is served by the Wausaukee School District, with Wausaukee High School being the primary educational institution. The village is known for its historic downtown area, which features several well-preserved buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. A key landmark in Wausaukee is the Evergreen Park, which offers facilities for picnicking, sports, and community events. The village also hosts the annual Wausaukee Fall Festival, a popular event that includes a parade, craft fair, and various family-friendly activities. The surrounding forests and rivers provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, including fishing, hunting, and hiking, making Wausaukee a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and those looking to experience the natural beauty of northern Wisconsin.