Cities and Towns in Price County, Wisconsin
Founded in 1879, Price County is one of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin. Historically, Price County was formed from Chippewa and Lincoln Counties. The city of Phillips is the county seat. With FIPS code of 99, Price County has a population of 14,050 and area of 1,254.38 square miles (3,249 km²).
List of all cities in Price County, WI alphabetically
- Brantwood, WI
- Catawba, WI
- Fifield, WI
- Kennan, WI
- Ogema, WI
- Park Falls, WI
- Phillips, WI
- Prentice, WI
Major Cities and Towns in Price County, Wisconsin
Park Falls
- Area: 3.62 square miles
- Population: 2,462 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54552
- Latitude and Longitude: 45.9341° N, 90.4421° W
Location and History
Park Falls is located in the northern part of Price County, along the Flambeau River. The city was founded in the late 19th century during the logging boom that swept through northern Wisconsin. Park Falls was originally a company town for the Flambeau Paper Company, which established a mill here in 1891. The town grew rapidly as the paper industry flourished, attracting workers and their families. Over the years, Park Falls evolved from a logging hub into a more diversified community, with the paper mill continuing to play a central role in the local economy. The city is known for its natural beauty, with abundant forests, lakes, and rivers making it a popular destination for outdoor recreation.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Park Falls is served by the Chequamegon School District, with Chequamegon High School providing education to local students. The city’s key landmarks include the St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, a historic building with beautiful stained glass windows. The Flambeau River, running through the city, is a major natural landmark offering opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. Another notable site is the Smith Rapids Covered Bridge, located just outside the city, which is a popular spot for photography and picnics. The city also hosts the annual Flambeau Rama, a summer festival featuring parades, live music, and community events.
Phillips
- Area: 3.42 square miles
- Population: 1,478 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54555
- Latitude and Longitude: 45.6922° N, 90.4001° W
Location and History
Phillips, the county seat of Price County, is located in the central part of the county along the shores of Duroy, Elk, and Long Lakes. The city was founded in 1876 and was named after Elijah B. Phillips, a railroad official. Phillips quickly became a logging and railroad center, with the Wisconsin Central Railroad playing a pivotal role in its development. A devastating fire in 1894 destroyed much of the city, but it was quickly rebuilt. Today, Phillips is known for its picturesque lakes and forests, making it a hub for tourism and outdoor activities. The city’s history is deeply tied to the logging industry, which remains a part of the local economy.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Phillips is served by the Phillips School District, which includes Phillips High School. The city is home to several notable landmarks, including the Price County Historical Society Museum, which showcases the area’s logging history and heritage. The Phillips Chain of Lakes is a key natural attraction, offering boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities. Another important site is Elk Lake Park, which hosts community events and provides recreational facilities. The city’s downtown area, with its historic buildings and shops, reflects Phillips’ rich history and charm.
Prentice
- Area: 1.54 square miles
- Population: 606 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54556
- Latitude and Longitude: 45.5453° N, 90.2906° W
Location and History
Prentice is located in the southeastern part of Price County, near the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. The village was established in the late 19th century as a logging community and was named after William A. Prentice, a prominent figure in the lumber industry. Prentice grew rapidly during the logging boom, with the railroad facilitating the transport of timber to markets in the Midwest. Although the logging industry has declined, Prentice has retained its small-town charm and continues to serve as a gateway to the surrounding forests and recreational areas.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Prentice is part of the Prentice School District, with Prentice High School serving the local student population. The village is known for its proximity to natural attractions, including the nearby Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, which offers extensive opportunities for hiking, hunting, and snowmobiling. One of the village’s key landmarks is the Prentice Pines Park, which features a logging-themed playground and picnic areas. Additionally, the annual Prentice Progress Days festival celebrates the village’s history and community spirit with parades, live music, and various family-friendly activities.
Catawba
- Area: 1.01 square miles
- Population: 108 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54515
- Latitude and Longitude: 45.5328° N, 90.5273° W
Location and History
Catawba is a small village located in the western part of Price County, along State Highway 111. The village was founded in the late 19th century as a logging settlement and was named after the Catawba grape, reflecting the area’s early agricultural ambitions. Catawba’s development was closely linked to the expansion of the railroad, which brought workers and settlers to the area. Although the village has remained small, it has maintained a strong sense of community, with a focus on preserving its rural character and natural surroundings.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Catawba is part of the Chequamegon School District, with students attending schools in nearby towns such as Park Falls and Phillips. The village is known for its quiet, rural setting and proximity to the South Fork of the Flambeau River, which offers opportunities for fishing and canoeing. A notable landmark in Catawba is the Catawba Cemetery, which reflects the village’s long history and the generations of families who have lived in the area. The surrounding countryside, with its rolling hills and forests, provides a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities and is a key attraction for residents and visitors alike.
Ogema
- Area: 1.05 square miles
- Population: 183 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54459
- Latitude and Longitude: 45.4219° N, 90.2915° W
Location and History
Ogema is located in the southern part of Price County, along U.S. Highway 13. The village was established in the late 19th century as a stop on the Wisconsin Central Railroad and was named after the Ojibwe word for “chief.” Ogema quickly became a center for logging and agriculture, with the railroad facilitating the transport of timber and agricultural products. Over time, the village evolved into a small, close-knit community with a strong connection to its natural surroundings, including the nearby Timm’s Hill, the highest point in Wisconsin.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ogema is served by the Prentice School District, with students attending schools in the nearby village of Prentice. The village is best known for its proximity to Timm’s Hill, which is a major landmark and offers hiking trails, scenic views, and a chance to stand at the highest elevation in the state. Another significant site is the Ogema Train Depot, a historic building that has been preserved as a reminder of the village’s railroad heritage. The surrounding Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities, including camping, hunting, and snowmobiling, making Ogema a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.