Cities and Towns in Menominee County, Wisconsin

Founded in 1959, Menominee County is one of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin. Historically, Menominee County was formed from Menominee Indian Reservation, Shawano, and Oconto Counties. The city of Keshena is the county seat. With FIPS code of 78, Menominee County has a population of 4,289 and area of 357.61 square miles (926 km²).

 

List of all cities in Menominee County, WI alphabetically

• Keshena, WI
• Neopit, WI

Major Cities and Towns in Menominee County, Wisconsin

Keshena

• Area: 3.5 square miles
• Population: 1,473 (as of the 2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 54135
• Latitude and Longitude: 44.8800° N, 88.6270° W

Location and History

Keshena is the largest community in Menominee County and serves as the administrative center for the Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin. Located along the Wolf River, Keshena is named after Chief Keshena, a prominent leader of the Menominee people in the 19th century. The area has been the cultural and political heart of the Menominee Nation for centuries, long before European settlers arrived in the region. After the federal government terminated the Menominee Tribe’s recognition in 1954, Keshena played a crucial role in the tribe’s efforts to regain their status, which was successfully restored in 1973. Today, Keshena is a vital center for preserving Menominee culture, language, and traditions while serving as a hub for local governance and community services.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Keshena is served by the Menominee Indian School District, with Menominee Indian High School being the primary educational institution. The community is home to the College of Menominee Nation, a tribal college offering higher education opportunities with a focus on Menominee culture and sustainability. Notable landmarks include the Menominee Casino Resort, which provides employment and economic support to the community, and the Menominee Cultural Museum, which showcases the history, art, and traditions of the Menominee people. The nearby Wolf River is a key natural landmark, offering recreational activities such as fishing, canoeing, and rafting, while also holding spiritual significance for the Menominee Tribe.

Neopit

• Area: 2.8 square miles
• Population: 690 (as of the 2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 54150
• Latitude and Longitude: 44.9800° N, 88.7409° W

Location and History

Neopit is a small community in Menominee County, located in the northwestern part of the county. The town was established in the early 20th century as a company town for the Menominee Tribal Enterprises (MTE) sawmill, which was a key component of the tribe’s efforts to manage and utilize their forest resources sustainably. Neopit, named after Chief Neopit, was created to support the logging operations that have long been an economic backbone for the Menominee Tribe. The community has played a significant role in the Menominee Nation’s forestry practices, which are recognized as some of the most sustainable in the world.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Neopit is also part of the Menominee Indian School District, with students attending schools in nearby Keshena. The town is home to the Menominee Tribal Enterprises sawmill, which remains a crucial part of the local economy and a symbol of the tribe’s commitment to sustainable forestry. Neopit’s logging heritage is celebrated at community events, and the surrounding forests offer opportunities for outdoor activities such as hunting, hiking, and nature observation. The town’s small size and close-knit community make it a focal point for preserving Menominee cultural practices and maintaining a strong connection to the land.

Legend Lake

• Area: 13.5 square miles
• Population: 1,525 (as of the 2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 54135
• Latitude and Longitude: 44.9006° N, 88.6501° W

Location and History

Legend Lake is a census-designated place located in the heart of Menominee County, surrounding a series of interconnected lakes that make up the Legend Lake system. The area was developed in the 1960s as a residential and recreational community, primarily attracting non-Native American residents and vacationers seeking waterfront properties. However, it is located within the boundaries of the Menominee Indian Reservation, and the development has been a point of discussion and negotiation between the tribal government and non-Native residents. Despite these complexities, Legend Lake has become a popular destination for those seeking a quiet retreat in a picturesque setting.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Legend Lake does not have its own school district; students typically attend schools in nearby Keshena as part of the Menominee Indian School District. The lake itself is the primary landmark, offering numerous recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, swimming, and kayaking. The area is also known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including dense forests and abundant wildlife, making it a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Community events often focus on outdoor activities and environmental stewardship, reflecting the area’s connection to the natural world. Despite its modern development, Legend Lake is still closely linked to the Menominee Tribe’s history and ongoing efforts to preserve their land and culture.