Cities and Towns in Rock County, Wisconsin
Founded in 1836, Rock County is one of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin. Historically, Rock County was formed from Milwaukee County. The city of Janesville is the county seat. With FIPS code of 105, Rock County has a population of 164,381 and area of 718.14 square miles (1,860 km²).
List of all cities in Rock County, WI alphabetically
- Afton, WI
- Avalon, WI
- Beloit, WI
- Clinton, WI
- Edgerton, WI
- Evansville, WI
- Footville, WI
- Hanover, WI
- Janesville, WI
- Milton, WI
- Orfordville, WI
Major Cities and Towns in Rock County, Wisconsin
Janesville
- Area: 34.6 square miles
- Population: 65,615 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 53545, 53546, 53548
- Latitude and Longitude: 42.6828° N, 89.0187° W
Location and History
Janesville, the largest city in Rock County, is situated along the Rock River in the southern part of Wisconsin. Founded in 1836, Janesville quickly grew due to its prime location along the river, which facilitated transportation and powered early mills. The city was named after Henry Janes, an early settler and land speculator. Janesville played a significant role in Wisconsin’s agricultural and manufacturing industries, particularly in the production of tractors and automobiles, with General Motors establishing a major plant here in the early 20th century. Despite the plant’s closure in 2008, Janesville has continued to thrive, diversifying its economy and revitalizing its downtown area.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Janesville is served by the Janesville School District, which includes Craig High School and Parker High School. The city is home to several higher education institutions, including the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater at Rock County. Significant landmarks include the Lincoln-Tallman House, a historic mansion that hosted Abraham Lincoln, and Rotary Botanical Gardens, a 20-acre botanical garden featuring diverse plant species and landscapes. Janesville is also known for its extensive park system, with Riverside Park along the Rock River being a popular recreational area.
Beloit
- Area: 17.7 square miles
- Population: 36,656 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 53511
- Latitude and Longitude: 42.5083° N, 89.0318° W
Location and History
Beloit is located at the southernmost tip of Rock County, bordering Illinois. The city was founded in 1836 by Caleb Blodgett, who traded his wagon for a piece of land that would become the heart of Beloit. The city quickly became a hub for industry and manufacturing, with early investments in milling and machinery. Beloit College, established in 1846, is one of the oldest colleges in Wisconsin and has played a significant role in the city’s cultural and educational development. Over the years, Beloit has undergone significant revitalization, particularly in its downtown area, which now features a mix of historic buildings, modern amenities, and a thriving arts scene.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Beloit is served by the School District of Beloit, which includes Beloit Memorial High School. Beloit College is a significant educational institution in the city, known for its liberal arts programs and historic campus. Key landmarks include the Wright Museum of Art and the Logan Museum of Anthropology, both located on the Beloit College campus. The city’s revitalized riverfront, featuring the Beloit Riverwalk and several parks, is a major draw for residents and visitors alike. Additionally, the annual Beloit International Film Festival has gained national recognition, further establishing the city as a cultural hub.
Milton
- Area: 3.42 square miles
- Population: 5,716 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 53563
- Latitude and Longitude: 42.7756° N, 88.9451° W
Location and History
Milton is located just northeast of Janesville in Rock County. The city has its roots in two separate communities—Milton and Milton Junction—which merged in 1967. Milton was originally founded in the 1830s by Joseph Goodrich, a staunch abolitionist who made the city a stop on the Underground Railroad. The city’s rich history is preserved in its well-maintained historic sites, including the Milton House, a National Historic Landmark that served as a station on the Underground Railroad. Over time, Milton grew as a small agricultural community and a transportation hub, with the arrival of the railroad in the 1850s contributing to its development.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Milton is served by the Milton School District, which includes Milton High School. The Milton House Museum is the city’s most notable landmark, offering a glimpse into the city’s role in the abolitionist movement. Other significant sites include the Milton College Historic District, which preserves buildings from the now-closed Milton College, and several historic homes that reflect the city’s 19th-century architecture. The city also has a number of parks and recreational areas, with Schilberg Park being a popular location for community events and sports.
Edgerton
- Area: 4.09 square miles
- Population: 5,945 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 53534
- Latitude and Longitude: 42.8356° N, 89.0698° W
Location and History
Edgerton, often referred to as “Tobacco City,” is located in the northern part of Rock County, straddling the Rock River. The city was established in 1853 and was named after Benjamin Hyde Edgerton, a surveyor and prominent resident. Edgerton became known for its tobacco industry, which thrived in the late 19th and early 20th centuries due to the fertile soil and favorable growing conditions in the region. The tobacco warehouses that once lined the city streets are a testament to this heritage. Although the tobacco industry has declined, Edgerton remains a vibrant community, with a growing population and a focus on maintaining its historic charm.
Major Schools and Landmarks
The Edgerton School District serves the city, with Edgerton High School being the primary educational institution. Major landmarks in Edgerton include the Sterling North Home and Museum, dedicated to the famous author and journalist who grew up in the city. The city also hosts the annual Tobacco Heritage Days festival, celebrating Edgerton’s rich history in the tobacco industry. Central Park and Racetrack Park are popular local spots for recreation and community events, offering facilities for sports, picnicking, and outdoor activities.