Cities and Towns in Taylor County, Wisconsin
Founded in 1875, Taylor County is one of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin. Historically, Taylor County was formed from Clark, Lincoln, Marathon and Chippewa Counties. The city of Medford is the county seat. With FIPS code of 119, Taylor County has a population of 19,923 and area of 974.88 square miles (2,525 km²).
List of all cities in Taylor County, WI alphabetically
- Gilman, WI
- Hannibal, WI
- Jump River, WI
- Lublin, WI
- Medford, WI
- Rib Lake, WI
- Stetsonville, WI
- Westboro, WI
Major Cities and Towns in Taylor County, Wisconsin
1. Medford
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 4.54 square miles
- Population: 4,291 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 54451
- Latitude: 45.1389° N
- Longitude: 90.3454° W
Location and History
Medford is the county seat of Taylor County, located in the north-central part of Wisconsin. The city was established in the late 19th century as a result of the expansion of the Wisconsin Central Railroad, which brought settlers and economic activity to the region. Medford was named after Medford, Massachusetts, reflecting the origins of some of its early settlers. The city quickly developed as a center for logging, agriculture, and later, manufacturing. Medford’s economy has long been supported by its wood products industry, with the presence of companies like Weather Shield Manufacturing, which specializes in windows and doors. The city’s location in the heart of Wisconsin’s Northwoods gives it a scenic setting, surrounded by forests and lakes.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Medford is served by the Medford Area School District, which includes Medford Area Senior High School, Middle School, and several elementary schools. Major landmarks include the Taylor County Historical Society Museum, which preserves the history of the region with exhibits on logging, farming, and local culture. The Medford City Park is a popular spot for recreation, offering picnic areas, playgrounds, and trails. The Ice Age National Scenic Trail passes through Medford, providing opportunities for hiking and exploring the unique geological features of the area. Medford’s combination of historical significance, natural beauty, and community spirit make it the central hub of Taylor County.
2. Rib Lake
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.54 square miles
- Population: 866 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 54470
- Latitude: 45.3203° N
- Longitude: 90.2076° W
Location and History
Rib Lake is a small village located in the northeastern part of Taylor County. The village was founded in the late 19th century, primarily as a logging community. It was named after the nearby Rib Lake, which played a significant role in the early logging operations, serving as a transport route for timber. Rib Lake grew rapidly during the logging boom, with several sawmills operating in the area. As the logging industry declined, the village transitioned to a more diversified economy, including agriculture and tourism. Rib Lake is known for its picturesque setting, surrounded by forests and lakes, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Rib Lake is served by the Rib Lake School District, which includes Rib Lake High School, Middle School, and Elementary School. Major landmarks include Rib Lake itself, which offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. The Rib Lake Ice Age Trail is a popular hiking destination, showcasing the area’s glacial features and scenic landscapes. The village also hosts the annual Rib Lake Ice Age Days, a community festival celebrating the area’s natural history with parades, live music, and family-friendly activities. The nearby Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest provides additional opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife observation, making Rib Lake a haven for nature enthusiasts.
3. Gilman
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.02 square miles
- Population: 392 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 54433
- Latitude: 45.1653° N
- Longitude: 90.8074° W
Location and History
Gilman is a small village located in the western part of Taylor County, near the border with Chippewa County. The village was established in the early 20th century, primarily as a farming community. Gilman was named after the Gilman family, early settlers who played a significant role in the village’s development. The area around Gilman is characterized by its rolling farmland and forests, with agriculture remaining a key part of the local economy. The village has maintained its small-town charm, with a close-knit community that values its rural heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Gilman is served by the Gilman School District, which includes Gilman High School, Middle School, and Elementary School. Major landmarks include the Gilman Village Park, which offers sports facilities, picnic areas, and a playground. The nearby Jump River, a popular spot for fishing and canoeing, adds to the village’s appeal for outdoor enthusiasts. Gilman also hosts the annual Gilman Cheese Days, a festival celebrating the village’s dairy farming heritage with parades, cheese-tasting events, and community activities. The surrounding forests provide opportunities for hunting, hiking, and snowmobiling, making Gilman a peaceful retreat in the heart of rural Wisconsin.
4. Lublin
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.50 square miles
- Population: 118 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 54447
- Latitude: 45.0772° N
- Longitude: 90.7193° W
Location and History
Lublin is a small village located in the western part of Taylor County, near the border with Clark County. The village was founded in the early 20th century by Polish immigrants, who named it after the city of Lublin in Poland. Lublin developed as an agricultural community, with farming being the primary economic activity. The village has a rich Polish heritage, which is still evident in its cultural traditions and community events. Despite its small size, Lublin has a strong sense of identity and community, with residents proud of their cultural roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Lublin is part of the Gilman School District, with students attending schools in nearby Gilman. Major landmarks include St. Mary’s Polish National Catholic Church, a historic church that serves as a cultural and spiritual center for the community. The village park offers a playground, picnic areas, and space for community gatherings. Lublin’s annual Polish Fest is a major event that celebrates the village’s heritage with traditional Polish foods, music, and dances. The surrounding countryside, with its farmland and forests, provides opportunities for hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities, making Lublin a quiet and culturally rich community in Taylor County.
5. Stetsonville
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.81 square miles
- Population: 544 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 54480
- Latitude: 45.0736° N
- Longitude: 90.3059° W
Location and History
Stetsonville is a small village located in the central part of Taylor County, along Highway 13. The village was founded in the late 19th century and was named after E. A. Stetson, a railroad official who played a key role in its establishment. Stetsonville developed as a farming community, with dairy farming being a major industry. The village grew slowly over the years, maintaining its rural character while developing a strong community spirit. Today, Stetsonville is known for its peaceful atmosphere and close-knit community, offering a quiet lifestyle in the heart of Wisconsin’s agricultural region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Stetsonville is part of the Medford Area School District, with students attending schools in nearby Medford. Major landmarks include the Stetsonville Centennial Hall, a community center that hosts events and gatherings throughout the year. The village park provides a playground, picnic areas, and a space for outdoor activities. Stetsonville is also home to several local businesses that serve the surrounding farming community. The annual village picnic is a popular event, bringing residents together for a day of fun and fellowship. The surrounding farmland and forests offer opportunities for hunting, fishing, and hiking, making Stetsonville a welcoming and picturesque place to live.
6. Chelsea
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.70 square miles
- Population: 113 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 54451
- Latitude: 45.2989° N
- Longitude: 90.3406° W
Location and History
Chelsea is a tiny village located in the northern part of Taylor County, about 10 miles north of Medford. The village was founded in the late 19th century, originally as a logging community. It was named after Chelsea, Massachusetts, reflecting the origins of some of its early settlers. As the logging industry declined, Chelsea transitioned to an agricultural economy, with dairy farming becoming the primary industry. The village has remained small and largely rural, with a strong sense of community and a commitment to preserving its historical roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Chelsea is part of the Medford Area School District, with students attending schools in Medford. Major landmarks include the historic Chelsea Town Hall, which serves as a community center and a reminder of the village’s early days. The surrounding forests and farmlands offer opportunities for outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, and hiking. The village’s rural setting and quiet atmosphere make it a peaceful retreat for residents and visitors alike. Chelsea’s small size belies its rich history and strong community spirit, making it a unique and charming part of Taylor County.