De Forest, Wisconsin

De Forest, Wisconsin

How DeForest got its name

DeForest was named for Isaac DeForest, a descendant from Belgium. He arrived in this area in 1854 and accumulated large land holdings, most devoted to wheat farming. He had the land platted in 1856, seeing the opportunity for establishing a village. Because of the decline in wheat prices following the Civil War, he lost a lot of money and sold his land in 1868. Even after moving away, however, the name remained the same and soon became the post office designation in the area and by 1872 a main station on the Madison-Portage Railway line.

Our Community

Family farms continue to line the highways to our Village. DeForest prides themselves on their community spirt and their know-your-neighbor approach to living. Many people are seeking this way of life, once believed to be lost, but still very much alive here in DeForest. While developers build more houses and condos, the Trustees and Village staff make sure we maintain our high quality of life and offer newcomers a true "home."

The Village of DeForest was incorporated in 1904 and is located directly north of Madison. It is easily accessible from State Highway 51 and close to Interstate 39, 90 and 94. The Village of DeForest, located in Dane County, Wisconsin, currently encompasses 8.43 square miles with 8,061 residents.

Community Profile

According to the 2000 Census, of the 2700+ housing units, 72% of all the housing units in DeForest are owner occupied. Renters are paying around $664/month for rent. The median household income is $55,000 with the majority of people making a living in the management/technical/professional field. Even though DeForest is in a large farm community, only 1.1% of people in the community earn their living soley through agriculture.

You can get more great information on DeForest, Wisconsin at their website: http://www.vi.deforest.wi.us/

Or just ask!