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Cities and Towns in Richland County, Wisconsin

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Founded in 1842, Richland County is one of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin. Historically, Richland County was formed from Iowa County. The city of Richland Center is the county seat. With FIPS code of 103, Richland County has a population of 17,212 and area of 586.15 square miles (1,518 km²).

 

List of all cities in Richland County, WI alphabetically

  • Cazenovia, WI
  • Gotham, WI
  • Lone Rock, WI
  • Richland Center, WI
  • Sextonville, WI
  • Viola, WI

Major Cities and Towns in Richland County, Wisconsin

Richland Center

  • Area: 4.48 square miles
  • Population: 5,114 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 53581
  • Latitude and Longitude: 43.3358° N, 90.3843° W

Location and History

Richland Center is located in the heart of Richland County, nestled in the scenic hills of the Driftless Area in southwestern Wisconsin. Founded in 1851 by Ira Sherwin Hazeltine, the city was initially envisioned as a temperance colony, prohibiting the sale of alcohol. The city’s development was spurred by its location along the Pine River, which provided early settlers with access to water and transportation. Richland Center became a key hub for agriculture, particularly dairy farming, and later diversified with manufacturing and healthcare. The city is also notable as the birthplace of Frank Lloyd Wright, the famous architect, who was born here in 1867.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Richland Center is served by the Richland School District, which includes Richland Center High School. The city is home to the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Richland, offering higher education opportunities. Major landmarks include the A.D. German Warehouse, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, which stands as a testament to his architectural legacy. The city’s historic downtown district features several well-preserved 19th-century buildings. Additionally, Krouskop Park and the Pine River provide recreational opportunities for residents and visitors, with the park offering facilities for sports, picnicking, and fishing.

Viola

  • Area: 0.81 square miles
  • Population: 699 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 54664
  • Latitude and Longitude: 43.5081° N, 90.6718° W

Location and History

Viola is located in the northeastern part of Richland County, extending slightly into Vernon County. The village was established in the late 19th century and was named after Viola Barnett, the daughter of an early settler. The town developed primarily as a service center for the surrounding agricultural community, with a focus on dairy farming and tobacco cultivation. Viola’s history is marked by its resilience, having rebuilt after several significant floods, thanks to the Kickapoo River that runs through the village.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Viola is served by the Kickapoo Area School District, which includes Kickapoo High School. The village is known for its picturesque setting along the Kickapoo River, which is a key landmark and offers opportunities for canoeing, fishing, and other outdoor activities. Viola also hosts the annual Viola Horse and Colt Show, one of the oldest and most significant events in the area, celebrating the village’s agricultural heritage. The event features horse shows, parades, and various community activities, drawing visitors from across the region.

Lone Rock

  • Area: 1.54 square miles
  • Population: 853 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 53556
  • Latitude and Longitude: 43.1867° N, 90.2004° W

Location and History

Lone Rock is situated in the southeastern part of Richland County, along the Wisconsin River. The village was founded in 1856 and named after a prominent sandstone outcrop that was a well-known landmark for early travelers along the river. Lone Rock developed as a transportation and trade hub, particularly with the arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century. The village’s history is closely tied to the Wisconsin River, which has played a central role in its economic and social life.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Lone Rock is part of the River Valley School District, with students attending River Valley High School in nearby Spring Green. The village’s major landmarks include the historic Lone Rock sandstone formation, which still stands as a symbol of the community. The nearby Wisconsin River is a significant natural landmark, offering recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, and hiking along its scenic banks. Additionally, Lone Rock is known for its annual River Fest, which celebrates the community’s connection to the river with music, food, and family-friendly activities.

Cazenovia

  • Area: 0.87 square miles
  • Population: 313 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 53924
  • Latitude and Longitude: 43.5256° N, 90.1971° W

Location and History

Cazenovia is located in the northeastern part of Richland County, near the border with Sauk County. The village was founded in the mid-19th century and was named after Cazenovia, New York, the hometown of some of its early settlers. Cazenovia developed as a small agricultural community, with its economy historically based on farming and local businesses that served the rural population. The village’s location near Cazenovia Lake made it a focal point for early settlement and trade.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Cazenovia is served by the Weston School District, with students attending Weston High School, located in nearby Lime Ridge. The village’s key landmarks include Cazenovia Lake, which provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and picnicking, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Another notable landmark is the Cazenovia Heritage Museum, which preserves the history and artifacts of the village’s early settlers and agricultural roots. The village also hosts the annual Cazenovia Fest, a community event that features parades, music, and various family activities, reflecting the village’s close-knit community spirit.

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