Appleton, Wisconsin

Appleton is a city in Wisconsin located north of Lake Winnebago. Appleton was named one of the country's Top 100 Best Places to Live. It was ranked #56 for amenities, demographics, economy, healthcare, housing, transportation, and social/civic culture. Appleton was also recognized for its inexpensive cost of living, booming entertainment and cuisine, seasonal events, and family-friendly atmosphere. Appleton's name can be linked back to Samuel Appleton, who donated $10,000 to the development of the library of Lawrence University. Hence the city was named after him in his honor.

Geography And Climate Of Appleton

With a total area of 25.28 square miles, Appleton is the sixth-largest city in Wisconsin. It is located within Outagamie County, which consists of 190,000 people. This region is known as the Fox Cities since cities are located right along a river called the Fox River. Appleton is the largest out of the Fox Cities. Summers in Appleton are hot; winters are cold, snowy, and windy; and the weather is partially cloudy all year. The temperature normally ranges from 12°F to 81°F throughout the year, with temperatures rarely falling below -7°F or rising over 89°F. 

Brief History Of Appleton 

When Appleton was founded in 1853 as a village, John F. Johnston was the first citizen and municipal president. Later, it was incorporated as a city in 1857. Appleton is historically known for its paper industry. Its first paper mill was built in 1853. Moreover, the city is famous for being the nation's first hydroelectric central station which began operation on September 30, 1882. 

Population And Economy Of Appleton 

As of July 1, 2021, Appleton's population was 74,854, according to the latest data from the US Census Bureau. Of this population, 50.6% were female, and 49.4% were male. In terms of age distribution, 6.5% were under the age of 5 years old, 23.8% were under 18 years old, and 15.2% were above the age of 65. The majority of this population's ethnicity is white (84.1%), whereas 3.2% were black or African American, 7.4% were Asian, 5.6% were Hispanic or Latino, 0.5% were American Indian, and 3.1% identified as two or more races. 

According to the same census, the total civilian labor force aged 16 years and older was 68.9%. The percentage of those living in poverty was 10.3%. The median household income was $61,475, and the per capita income in the past 12 months was $33,282.

Touristic Attractions Near Appleton

Paper Discovery Center

Established in 1878, the paper discovery center in Appleton is a museum and workshop center dedicated to papermaking. Visitors will learn about the science of papermaking, the history of the paper industry, and a variety of experiential learning options that will engage all their senses!

Hearthstone Historic House Museum

Hearthstone Historic House is the first house in the world to be electrified using the Edison centrally located hydroelectric plant. The family that was responsible for building the house was the Rogers family in 1882. The architect that they used was an Oshkosh architect by the name of William Waters. Original Edison electroliers, light switches, and some of the world's sole examples of original Edison wiring in situ may still be found in the house. It is a very interesting place to visit, as it is unique in its kind.

Badger Sports Park

Badger Sports Park Is a family-owned entertainment center founded in 1993. The variety of games attracts tourists to visit this center, especially families. From laser tag to batting cages, kids are guaranteed to have a splendid time. 

Having many interesting and beautiful places to visit, Appleton is generally targeted by tourists. Appleton is recognized as a safe city in which both visitors and residents have ease of mind spending their time there.