Stoughton, WI

Wonderful Wisconsin Communities: Stoughton, Wisconsin

03-01-08

Laurie Logan-South Central WI Real Estate

view my blog
Office: (608) 246-5577

Mobile: (608) 345-5577

On July 3, 1847, Luke Stoughton, a Vermont Yankee living in the Janesville area, purchased 800 acres of land nestled in a large bend of the Catfish River (now the Yahara River). The cost was $2100. He liked the site because the Catfish River had the potential for being able to power a lumber mill. He designed the town, including the dam, lumber mill, and general store. He also sold land and houses to friends and family. In 1853, Stoughton traded land to the railroad if the line would pass through his city. This transportation feet ensured the growth and success of the city.

With the wagon works and leaf tobacco industries, the population swelled, mainly with people of Norwegian descent. Residential and business districts continued to thrive. Stoughton incorporated as a city in 1882.

By the end of World War I, Stoughton reached the end of her ‘boom years.' Wagon factories gave way to autos. The tobacco industry collapsed as unchecked growing depleted the soil. Stoughton experienced an economic upswing following the Depression, as new industries emerged.

Today, Stoughton continues to grow and prosper, with a lively downtown - and contemporary enhancements around the city. The neighborhoods feature the finest in new housing as well as meticulously preserved estates of the past.

Stoughton, a city for the ages - yesterday, today, and tomorrow.

0 Comments