According to Countryaah, Barron County is located in the northwestern part of Wisconsin and is bordered by six other counties. To the north is Rusk County, to the east is Washburn County, to the southeast is Dunn County, to the south is St. Croix County, to the southwest is Pierce County, and Finally, to the northwest lies Chippewa County. Barron County covers an area of 1,269 square miles and has a population of 45,670 people according to 2018 estimates.
The county seat of Barron County is located in Barron which also serves as its largest city with a population of 3,228 people. The county was established in 1859 and named after Henry D. Barron who was an early settler in Wisconsin and a former member of the state legislature.
The landscape of Barron County consists mainly of rolling hills, forests, lakes and rivers. There are numerous outdoor activities that can be enjoyed such as fishing, hunting, biking trails and camping sites. Additionally there are several parks located throughout the county such as Rice Lake State Park which offers visitors a variety of outdoor activities including boating on Rice Lake; Bird Island Park which provides excellent bird-watching opportunities; and Chetek Municipal Park which features an outdoor swimming pool for summer fun.
Overall, Barron County offers visitors plenty to do whether they’re looking for outdoor recreation or simply want to explore its unique history.
Demographics of Barron County, Wisconsin
Barron County is located in northwestern Wisconsin and has a population of 45,670 people according to 2018 estimates. The racial makeup of the county is predominantly White (94.1%), followed by American Indian (2.3%), Asian (1.4%), African American (0.7%) and Hispanic or Latino (0.6%).
The median age in Barron County is 43 years old with 25% of the population under the age of 18 and 13% aged 65 years or older. The median household income in the county is $56,906 with 16% of households living below the poverty level.
Education levels vary throughout Barron County with 85% having at least a high school diploma while only 20% having a bachelor’s degree or higher. The largest industries in the county are healthcare, manufacturing, retail trade and educational services which collectively account for nearly 30% of all jobs in Barron County.
There are also numerous religious organizations located throughout Barron County including Lutheran, Baptist, Methodist and Catholic denominations as well as non-denominational churches that serve the community’s spiritual needs. Overall, Barron County is a diverse community with a variety of backgrounds represented that helps create an enriching environment for its residents.
Places of Interest in Barron County, Wisconsin
Barron County, Wisconsin is home to a variety of places of interest for visitors and locals alike. From outdoor recreation to historical sites, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
The Rice Lake State Park is located in the county and offers visitors a variety of activities including camping, fishing, swimming, boating and hiking. The park also features two trails that are open year-round; one is 8 miles long and the other 2.5 miles long. Additionally there are several picnic areas that are perfect for enjoying a nice meal outdoors.
Bird Island Park is another popular destination in Barron County and provides visitors with excellent bird-watching opportunities as well as access to the Red Cedar River which is great for kayaking or canoeing. There are also plenty of trails here to explore as well as a playground for kids to enjoy.
Chetek Municipal Park is another great spot in Barron County featuring an outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts, baseball fields and a disc golf course all open to the public free of charge. Additionally there are several walking paths throughout the park providing beautiful views of the surrounding area.
For those looking for some history, Barron County has several sites worth visiting such as the Anderson Log Home which was built in 1876 and was home to two generations of Andersons; Chetek Main Street which features buildings from early 20th century; or Old Abe Trail which follows the route taken by Chief Sky Thunder during his journey from Wisconsin to Washington DC in 1865-66 after being chosen as Wisconsin’s Civil War mascot.
Overall, Barron County has something for everyone no matter their interests. Whether you’re looking for outdoor recreation or want to explore its unique history, there’s something here sure to please every visitor.
Notable People of Barron County, Wisconsin
Barron County, Wisconsin has seen its share of notable people throughout its history. From political figures to famous musicians, this county has produced some of the most influential people in the state.
One of the most recognizable figures from Barron County is former US Senator Russ Feingold who served as a Senator from 1993 to 2011. Feingold was born in Janesville and raised in nearby Middleton where his father was a professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. During his time as a senator, Feingold was an active participant in politics and was well known for his advocacy for campaign finance reform.
Another notable figure from Barron County is musician Paul Westerberg, best known as the lead singer of The Replacements. Born in Minneapolis but raised in Barron County, Westerberg’s music career began with The Replacements before launching a successful solo career with albums such as 14 Songs and Eventually which received critical acclaim.
Other notable people from Barron County include NFL Hall of Fame quarterbacks Brett Favre and Joe Montana who both grew up in the county; writer/director/producer John Erick Dowdle who directed films such as Quarantine and Devil; and actor Robert Englund who starred in films such as A Nightmare on Elm Street and Vampires: Los Muertos.
These are just some of the many notable people to come out of Barron County, Wisconsin. From politicians to musicians, this county has produced some truly inspiring individuals that have gone on to make their mark on society.