History of Bayfield County, Wisconsin
Bayfield County, Wisconsin, located in the state’s northernmost region, is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including forests, lakes, and the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Established in 1856, the county has a diverse history shaped by Indigenous peoples, European exploration, and early settlement. Its rich natural resources, particularly timber and fishing, played pivotal roles in its economic development. Over time, the area evolved from a wilderness frontier to a popular tourist destination. Today, Bayfield County retains much of its historical charm, with many sites dedicated to preserving its cultural and environmental legacy.
Origins of Bayfield County
Native American Inhabitants
Before European settlers arrived, the region that would become Bayfield County was inhabited by various Native American tribes, primarily the Ojibwe (Chippewa) and Menominee. The Ojibwe were part of the larger Algonquian-speaking group and had a deep connection to the land, living off the abundant natural resources such as fish, game, and wild plants. The Apostle Islands, located just off the county’s coast, were especially important to the Ojibwe as fishing and gathering grounds.
These tribes lived in relative harmony with the environment, using sustainable methods for hunting, fishing, and gathering. The Ojibwe people built seasonal villages along the shores of Lake Superior, and their presence in the region dates back thousands of years. Their economy was based largely on fishing, wild rice harvesting, and the trading of furs with other Indigenous peoples and European traders. The introduction of European diseases and the fur trade altered the landscape and way of life for these tribes by the early 19th century.
European Exploration and Early Settlement
The first European exploration of the region occurred in the late 17th century when French explorers arrived in the Great Lakes area. French traders and missionaries ventured into the Wisconsin wilderness, establishing trading posts and interacting with the Native American tribes. The French were interested in fur trading, and this economic exchange would shape the region for the next century.
In the early 1800s, the U.S. government began to explore the northern frontier, seeking to expand westward and open up new territories for settlement. After Wisconsin became a state in 1848, land speculators, timber companies, and farmers began to arrive in Bayfield County, attracted by its natural beauty and resources. Settlers used Lake Superior as a vital transportation route for supplies, and they established small communities along the shore.
Establishment of Bayfield County
Bayfield County was officially created in 1856 from parts of La Pointe and Ashland counties, although it had been inhabited by settlers and fur traders for decades prior. The county was named after Bayfield, Ontario, a town situated on the shores of Lake Huron, reflecting the influence of European names in the region. The early settlers of Bayfield County were primarily of European descent, including immigrants from Scandinavia, Germany, and Ireland. They were drawn to the area by its rich resources, including timber, fish, and fertile land.
By the 1860s, Bayfield was officially designated as the county seat, and a small port town began to develop, serving as a commercial and transportation hub for the surrounding area. The construction of roads and docks facilitated trade, and the fishing and timber industries began to grow, marking the county’s economic development.
Key Historical Events in Bayfield County
The Lumber Industry and Economic Growth
In the late 19th century, Bayfield County’s economy was centered around logging. The vast forests of the county were filled with pine, oak, and other hardwoods, which were in high demand for construction, furniture making, and paper production. Lumber mills were established along the shoreline, where logs were floated downriver and processed into timber. This brought prosperity to the area, but it also led to deforestation. The rapid depletion of the county’s forests in the late 1800s and early 1900s prompted concerns about sustainability.
By the early 20th century, the lumber industry began to decline, as much of the easily accessible timber had been harvested. However, the county’s timber industry left a lasting impact on its development, helping to shape the settlement patterns and infrastructure of Bayfield County. As the timber industry waned, the fishing and agriculture industries grew in importance, while tourism began to emerge as a key sector of the local economy.
The Development of Tourism
Bayfield County’s natural beauty and proximity to the Apostle Islands made it an attractive destination for tourists. In the early 20th century, the county began to attract more visitors interested in fishing, boating, and exploring the islands. The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore was established in 1970, and it became a major draw for tourists looking to enjoy the outdoors, including hiking, kayaking, and camping.
The county also became known for its agricultural products, particularly apples. The Bayfield area is one of Wisconsin’s largest apple-producing regions, and by the mid-1900s, the county’s apple orchards became a major tourist attraction during the fall harvest season. Visitors came to pick apples, take tours of orchards, and experience the rural, small-town atmosphere.
Impact of World Wars
Like much of the United States, Bayfield County was impacted by the world wars of the 20th century. During both World War I and World War II, local residents enlisted in the armed forces, and the community was deeply affected by the loss of soldiers. Many families, particularly those in rural areas, were involved in farming and resource extraction efforts to support the war effort, contributing to the broader national need for supplies.
The wars also brought significant changes to the economy, with the county seeing an increase in industrial and manufacturing activity during the mid-20th century. After World War II, however, Bayfield County’s economy began to shift more toward service industries, particularly tourism and hospitality, as people from the cities began to visit for vacations and weekend getaways.
Historical Sites in Bayfield County
Bayfield County is home to several historic sites that provide a glimpse into the past, from the days of fur trading and early European settlement to the growth of the timber and fishing industries. Many of these sites celebrate the county’s natural beauty, as well as its rich cultural history.
Bayfield County Courthouse
Overview:
The Bayfield County Courthouse, located in the town of Washburn, was built in 1901 and is a prime example of early 20th-century public architecture. Constructed in a neoclassical style, it features an impressive facade and grand interior. The courthouse still serves as the center of the county’s judicial and administrative operations. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and its well-preserved condition offers a window into the early civic life of Bayfield County.
Location:
Bayfield County Courthouse, 117 E 5th St, Washburn, WI 54891
Ticket Price:
Free to visit (limited access during court hours)
Parking Information:
Free parking is available around the courthouse square.
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
Overview:
The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is a stunning natural area that includes 21 islands in Lake Superior. The islands are known for their pristine wilderness, lighthouses, sea caves, and hiking trails. The lakeshore is also home to several historic sites, including lighthouses and old fishing cabins. Visitors can explore the islands by boat, kayak, or ferry, and many islands feature hiking trails, beaches, and opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife observation.
Location:
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Bayfield, WI 54814
Ticket Price:
Free to access the islands; ferry service and guided tours may have additional fees.
Parking Information:
Parking is available at the ferry dock in Bayfield for those wishing to take a boat to the islands.
Historic Iron Bridge
Overview:
The Historic Iron Bridge, located near the town of Washburn, was built in 1889 and is a fine example of late 19th-century engineering. The bridge spans the Chequamegon Bay and is still in use today. It provides an important transportation link between Washburn and the rest of the county, and its distinctive ironwork makes it a local landmark. The bridge is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Location:
Historic Iron Bridge, Washburn, WI 54891
Ticket Price:
Free to visit
Parking Information:
Free parking is available near the bridge.
Bayfield Heritage Museum
Overview:
The Bayfield Heritage Museum is located in the town of Bayfield and offers a detailed look at the area’s history, from Native American life through European settlement, the timber industry, and the development of tourism. The museum houses exhibits on the county’s early industries, including logging, fishing, and agriculture. It also features exhibits on the local Ojibwe heritage and the development of Bayfield as a popular tourist destination.
Location:
Bayfield Heritage Museum, 42 S Broad St, Bayfield, WI 54814
Ticket Price:
$5 for adults, free for children under 12
Parking Information:
Street parking is available in downtown Bayfield.
County Facts
Geography and Climate
Bayfield County is located in northwestern Wisconsin and is bordered by Lake Superior to the north, which provides the county with a diverse ecosystem and abundant water resources. The county is known for its rugged terrain, which includes rolling hills, forests, and numerous lakes and rivers. The Apostle Islands are a major feature of the county, offering scenic beauty and outdoor recreation. Bayfield County’s climate is classified as continental, with cold winters and warm, humid summers. Average winter temperatures can dip well below freezing, with significant snowfall, while summers are typically mild and pleasant.
- Year Founded: 1856
- County Seat: Washburn
- Population: Approximately 15,000 (as of 2023)
- Population Density: 15.6 people per square mile
- Largest Cities: Bayfield, Washburn, Iron River
- Major Highways: U.S. Highway 2, Wisconsin Highway 13
- Adjacent Counties: Ashland, Sawyer, Douglas, and Iron (in Minnesota)
