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Cities and Towns in Rusk County, Wisconsin

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Founded in 1901, Rusk County is one of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin. Historically, Rusk County was formed from Chippewa County. The city of Ladysmith is the county seat. With FIPS code of 107, Rusk County has a population of 14,123 and area of 913.59 square miles (2,366 km²).

 

List of all cities in Rusk County, WI alphabetically

  • Bruce, WI
  • Conrath, WI
  • Glen Flora, WI
  • Hawkins, WI
  • Ladysmith, WI
  • Sheldon, WI
  • Tony, WI
  • Weyerhaeuser, WI

Major Cities and Towns in Rusk County, Wisconsin

Ladysmith

  • Area: 4.4 square miles
  • Population: 3,280 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Code: 54848
  • Latitude and Longitude: 45.4631° N, 91.0996° W

Location and History

Ladysmith is located in the central part of Rusk County, along the scenic Flambeau River. The city was originally founded as a logging town in the late 19th century and was first known as “Flambeau Falls.” In 1900, it was renamed Ladysmith in honor of Charles R. Smith’s wife, the town’s first postmaster. The arrival of the railroad spurred the city’s growth, making it a key center for trade and transportation in the region. Over the years, Ladysmith has transitioned from its logging roots to a more diversified economy, including agriculture, manufacturing, and services.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Ladysmith is home to several educational institutions, including Ladysmith High School and Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic School. The city is known for the Rusk County Historical Museum, which showcases the area’s rich logging history. Another significant landmark is Memorial Park, located along the Flambeau River, which offers recreational opportunities and hosts community events. The annual Northland Mardi Gras festival is one of the city’s key cultural events, drawing visitors from across the region.

Bruce

  • Area: 1.05 square miles
  • Population: 779 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Code: 54819
  • Latitude and Longitude: 45.4603° N, 91.2765° W

Location and History

Bruce is located in the western part of Rusk County, along U.S. Highway 8. The village was founded in 1884 and named after Alanson C. Bruce, a pioneer who played a significant role in the development of the area. Like many towns in the region, Bruce’s early economy was rooted in logging and agriculture. The arrival of the Soo Line Railroad in the late 19th century helped the town grow, turning it into a small but thriving community. Today, Bruce retains its small-town charm while serving as a gateway to outdoor activities, with proximity to the Blue Hills and numerous lakes.

Major Schools and Landmarks

The Bruce School District serves the village, offering education from elementary through high school. Bruce is also home to the Blue Hills Environmental Learning Center, which provides environmental education opportunities. The annual Blue Hills Festival, celebrating local culture and history, is a major event in the village. A notable landmark is the Bruce Veterans Memorial, dedicated to honoring local veterans.

Hawkins

  • Area: 0.98 square miles
  • Population: 305 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Code: 54530
  • Latitude and Longitude: 45.5125° N, 90.7110° W

Location and History

Hawkins is located in the northeastern part of Rusk County, near the border with Price County. The village was established in 1904, largely as a result of the logging industry that dominated the region. Hawkins was named after J. M. Hawkins, a local landowner and businessman who was instrumental in the village’s founding. The town developed quickly with the expansion of the railroad, which made it a key transport hub for timber. Although the logging industry has since declined, Hawkins remains a close-knit community with a strong connection to its history.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Hawkins is served by the Flambeau School District, located nearby in Tony. A notable landmark in the village is the Hawkins Area Veterans Memorial, which honors the service of local military personnel. The surrounding area is popular for outdoor activities, including hunting, fishing, and snowmobiling, with numerous trails and natural areas nearby.

Sheldon

  • Area: 0.61 square miles
  • Population: 214 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Code: 54766
  • Latitude and Longitude: 45.4164° N, 90.9584° W

Location and History

Sheldon is situated in the southeastern part of Rusk County, along the Jump River. The village was founded in the early 1900s, named after an early settler and mill owner, Sheldon Brott. The town developed as a logging and milling community, with the river providing a means of transporting logs. Over the years, Sheldon has maintained its rural character, with agriculture and small-scale industries contributing to the local economy.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Sheldon is part of the Flambeau School District, with students attending schools in nearby Tony. The Jump River offers recreational opportunities, including fishing and canoeing, making it a key natural landmark in the village. Sheldon is also known for its community events, such as the Sheldon Fair, which celebrates the town’s agricultural heritage. The Sheldon Historical Society maintains a small museum that preserves artifacts and stories from the village’s past.

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