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Cities and Towns in Shawano County, Wisconsin

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Founded in 1853, Shawano County is one of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin. Historically, Shawano County was formed from Oconto County. The city of Shawano is the county seat. With FIPS code of 115, Shawano County has a population of 40,859 and area of 893.06 square miles (2,313 km²).

Map_of_Shawano_County_Wisconsin

List of all cities in Shawano County, WI alphabetically

  • Birnamwood, WI
  • Bonduel, WI
  • Bowler, WI
  • Caroline, WI
  • Cecil, WI
  • Green Valley, WI
  • Gresham, WI
  • Krakow, WI
  • Leopolis, WI
  • Mattoon, WI
  • Shawano, WI
  • Tigerton, WI
  • Tilleda, WI
  • Wittenberg, WI
  • Zachow, WI

Major Cities and Towns in Shawano County, Wisconsin

1. Shawano

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 6.67 square miles
  • Population: 9,305 (as of 2020)
  • Zip Codes: 54166
  • Latitude: 44.7783° N
  • Longitude: 88.6084° W

Location and History

Shawano is the county seat and largest city in Shawano County, located in northeastern Wisconsin along the Wolf River. The city was founded in the mid-19th century and is named after the Menominee word “Shawano,” meaning “to the south.” Shawano developed as a center for the lumber industry, taking advantage of the abundant forests in the area and the river for transportation. Over time, the city transitioned to a more diversified economy, including agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. Shawano Lake, located just west of the city, has been a popular recreational destination for both residents and visitors, contributing to the city’s appeal as a hub for outdoor activities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Shawano is served by the Shawano School District, which includes Shawano Community High School, Middle School, and several elementary schools. Major landmarks include the Shawano County Historical Society and Museum, which preserves the region’s history with exhibits on Native American culture, the logging industry, and early settlers. The Shawano Lake County Park offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including swimming, boating, and fishing. The city is also known for its vibrant downtown area, which features historic buildings, local shops, and restaurants. The annual Shawano County Fair is a key event, celebrating the region’s agricultural heritage with livestock shows, carnival rides, and entertainment.

2. Bonduel

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 2.29 square miles
  • Population: 1,478 (as of 2020)
  • Zip Codes: 54107
  • Latitude: 44.7372° N
  • Longitude: 88.4490° W

Location and History

Bonduel is a small village located in the southeastern part of Shawano County. The village was founded in the mid-19th century and was named after Father Florimond Bonduel, a Belgian missionary who worked with the Menominee people in the area. Bonduel developed as an agricultural community, with dairy farming being the primary economic activity. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further spurred growth, making Bonduel a local trade and transportation hub. The village has maintained its rural charm, with a strong sense of community and a commitment to preserving its historical roots.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Bonduel is served by the Bonduel School District, which includes Bonduel High School, Middle School, and Elementary School. Major landmarks include the Bonduel Log Church, a historic structure that dates back to the village’s early days and reflects its rich religious heritage. The village park is a popular spot for local events, including the annual Bonduel Founder’s Day celebration, which features parades, live music, and other community activities. The nearby Navarino Wildlife Area offers opportunities for hiking, bird-watching, and enjoying the natural beauty of the region. Bonduel’s close-knit community and picturesque setting make it a welcoming place to live and visit.

3. Wittenberg

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 1.97 square miles
  • Population: 1,069 (as of 2020)
  • Zip Codes: 54499
  • Latitude: 44.8242° N
  • Longitude: 89.1693° W

Location and History

Wittenberg is a small village located in the western part of Shawano County. The village was founded in the late 19th century by German immigrants who named it after Wittenberg, Germany. Wittenberg developed as a farming community, with the rich soil of the surrounding area supporting dairy farming and crop production. The village’s growth was closely tied to the arrival of the railroad, which facilitated the transportation of agricultural products to larger markets. Wittenberg has maintained much of its historical character, with a focus on preserving its German heritage and rural lifestyle.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Wittenberg is served by the Wittenberg-Birnamwood School District, which includes Wittenberg-Birnamwood High School, Middle School, and Elementary School. Major landmarks include the Homme Home Historic District, which features buildings associated with the Homme Children’s Home, a significant institution in the village’s history. The village also has several parks, including Washington Park, which hosts community events and offers recreational facilities. Wittenberg is known for its annual Wittenberg Community Days, a festival that celebrates the village’s heritage with parades, music, and family-friendly activities. The nearby Mountain Bay State Trail offers opportunities for hiking, biking, and snowmobiling, making Wittenberg an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

4. Birnamwood

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 1.01 square miles
  • Population: 795 (as of 2020)
  • Zip Codes: 54414
  • Latitude: 44.9283° N
  • Longitude: 89.2079° W

Location and History

Birnamwood is a small village located in the northwestern part of Shawano County, near the border with Marathon County. The village was founded in the late 19th century, with its name inspired by the Birnam Wood from Shakespeare’s play “Macbeth.” Birnamwood developed as an agricultural community, with dairy farming playing a central role in its economy. The village’s location along the rail line allowed it to become a local trade center, supporting the surrounding farming community. Birnamwood has retained its small-town atmosphere, with a focus on family, education, and community values.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Birnamwood is part of the Wittenberg-Birnamwood School District, with students attending Wittenberg-Birnamwood High School and Birnamwood Elementary School. Major landmarks include the Birnamwood Memorial Park, which features a playground, sports facilities, and picnic areas, serving as a gathering place for the community. The village also hosts the annual Birnamwood Fourth of July celebration, which includes a parade, fireworks, and various family-friendly activities. The surrounding area, with its rolling farmland and wooded areas, provides opportunities for hunting, fishing, and hiking, contributing to Birnamwood’s appeal as a peaceful rural community.

5. Tigerton

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 1.40 square miles
  • Population: 741 (as of 2020)
  • Zip Codes: 54486
  • Latitude: 44.7392° N
  • Longitude: 89.0487° W

Location and History

Tigerton is a small village located in the southwestern part of Shawano County. The village was established in the late 19th century as a logging community, taking advantage of the abundant forests in the area. Tigerton was named after the Tiger Creek, which flows through the village. As the logging industry declined, Tigerton transitioned to a more agriculture-based economy, with dairy farming and crop production becoming the primary industries. The village has maintained its historical character, with several buildings and landmarks that reflect its logging heritage.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Tigerton is served by the Tigerton School District, which includes Tigerton High School and Tigerton Elementary School. Major landmarks include the Tigerton Historical Museum, which preserves the history of the village and its logging past with exhibits and artifacts. The village park, located along the banks of Tiger Creek, offers a playground, picnic areas, and a space for community events. Tigerton is also known for its annual Lumberjack Days, a festival that celebrates the village’s logging heritage with lumberjack competitions, parades, and entertainment. The surrounding forests and rivers provide opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, and snowmobiling, making Tigerton a charming and historically rich community.

6. Gresham

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 1.11 square miles
  • Population: 586 (as of 2020)
  • Zip Codes: 54128
  • Latitude: 44.8483° N
  • Longitude: 88.7859° W

Location and History

Gresham is a small village located in the northern part of Shawano County, near the Stockbridge-Munsee Indian Reservation. The village was founded in the late 19th century and was named after Walter Q. Gresham, a U.S. Secretary of State. Gresham developed as a farming community, with a focus on dairy farming and agriculture. The village’s location along the Red River provided water power for early mills, contributing to its growth. Over time, Gresham became a local center for trade and services, supporting the surrounding rural area.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Gresham is part of the Gresham School District, which includes Gresham Community School, serving students from elementary through high school. Major landmarks include the Gresham Dam, which creates a scenic millpond popular for fishing and recreation. The village also has a community park that hosts events and provides facilities for sports and outdoor activities. Gresham is known for its close-knit community and annual events like the Gresham Fireworks Show, which brings residents together for a celebration of Independence Day. The nearby Pine Hills Golf Course and the surrounding natural areas offer opportunities for golfing, hiking, and enjoying the beauty of northern Wisconsin.