County of taylor

History & Founding

Located in north-central Wisconsin, this county boasts a rich history deeply intertwined with the lumber industry and the westward expansion of the state. Established in 1885 from portions of Jackson, Clark, and Wood counties, it was named in honor of Zachary Taylor, the ninth President of the United States, reflecting the national fervor surrounding his presidency. Early settlement was driven by the abundance of pine forests, and the county quickly became a vital cog in Wisconsin’s lumber boom. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s further fueled this growth, bringing in settlers and facilitating the transport of timber to markets across the nation. An interesting anecdote from this era tells of a particularly large white pine tree, nicknamed “The Monarch,” located near Dorchester. Estimated to be over 150 feet tall and with a trunk diameter exceeding 10 feet, it became a local landmark and a symbol of the region’s immense timber resources before being felled in 1901. The county played a significant role in Wisconsin's development, contributing heavily to the state’s economic growth during its formative years.

Geography & Landscape

The county's geography is characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and a network of rivers and lakes. Situated within the Northern Highland Ecological Province, the landscape is a mosaic of hardwood and coniferous forests, interspersed with wetlands and open fields. The county encompasses 975 square miles, a substantial area dominated by forested terrain. Major rivers, including the Flambeau and Prentice, carve through the landscape, providing vital waterways for transportation and recreation. Numerous lakes, such as Lake Miller and Lake Nokomis, dot the region, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. The climate is typically continental, with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. The area experiences four distinct seasons, contributing to the diverse flora and fauna that thrive within its boundaries. The highest point in the county is relatively modest, reflecting the generally gentle terrain.

Economy & Communities

The county’s economy is rooted in agriculture, forestry, and manufacturing. Medford, the county seat, serves as the primary commercial hub. Other significant towns include Rib Lake, Withee, and Spencer. While timber harvesting remains important, the focus has shifted towards sustainable forestry practices. Agriculture plays a key role, with dairy farming, cranberry cultivation, and corn and soybean production being prominent. Manufacturing industries, including paper mills and metal fabrication, provide employment opportunities. Notable employers include Medford Area Municipal Utilities and various agricultural processing facilities. The overall character of the area is decidedly rural, with a strong sense of community and a slower pace of life. The population of approximately 19,680 reflects this rural nature, with a close-knit population that values tradition and hard work.

Points of Interest

Points of interest within the county showcase its history and natural beauty. The Medford Historical Society Museum offers a glimpse into the area’s past, highlighting the lumbering era and early settlement. The Trigsby Family Forest, a dedicated conservation area, provides opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation. The county hosts several annual events, including the Rib Lake Cranberry Festival, a celebration of the region’s cranberry harvest. While not widely known for celebrity residents, the county has fostered a strong sense of local pride and identity. A unique fact about the county is its significant contribution to Wisconsin’s cranberry production, with numerous cranberry bogs contributing to the state’s reputation as a leading cranberry producer. The county’s natural resources and its