Baldwin, WI

County: St. Croix

History

Baldwin, Wisconsin

Baldwin is a village located in St. Croix County in western Wisconsin, United States. The area where Baldwin now stands was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, primarily the Dakota and Ojibwe. European settlers began to arrive in the mid-19th century, attracted by the fertile land and natural resources found in the region.

The village of Baldwin was officially established in 1871, named after Judge Abraham Baldwin, a prominent figure in the area. The construction of the Wisconsin Central Railway in the same year greatly contributed to the growth and development of the village. The railroad played a significant role in transportation and trade, allowing the community to prosper.

Throughout its history, Baldwin has primarily relied on agriculture as its economic base. The region was known for its abundant farmland, and many settlers arrived to establish farms and cultivate crops. The village became a central hub for agricultural trade, with markets and processing facilities being established to support farmers in the area.

Over the years, Baldwin has experienced growth and development, expanding its infrastructure and services. Schools, churches, and businesses were established to meet the needs of the growing community. The village has also faced challenges, including fires and economic shifts, but has continued to thrive and adapt.

Today, Baldwin is a vibrant community with a population of approximately 3,900 people. While agriculture remains an essential part of the local economy, the village has diversified, with businesses in various sectors, including manufacturing, healthcare, and retail. Despite its growth, Baldwin has managed to maintain its small-town charm and sense of community.

Attractions

Kinnickinnic State Park

Kinnickinnic State Park

A beautiful state park that offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and fishing spots along the Kinnickinnic River.

Willow River State Park

Located just outside of Baldwin, this park is known for its beautiful waterfall, hiking trails, and camping facilities.

Crystal Cave

A natural cave located near Baldwin, where visitors can take guided tours to explore the unique and stunning rock formations.

Badlands Sno-Park

A family-friendly snow tubing park with multiple chutes and a magic carpet lift.

Cedar Lake Speedway

A popular dirt racetrack that hosts various motor racing events and competitions.

Pine Point County Park

A serene park with a sandy beach on Pine Lake, perfect for swimming and enjoying outdoor activities.

Homestead Parklands

A scenic park with multiple ponds, walking trails, and picnic areas, providing a tranquil setting for relaxation or outdoor recreation.

Rusty's Red Eye Ranch

A local farm that offers horseback riding lessons, trail rides, and opportunities to interact with farm animals.

Baldwin-Woodville Area Historical Society Museum

A small museum that showcases the history and heritage of the Baldwin-Woodville area.

Baldwin LightStream Stadium

The local high school football stadium, where you can catch a game and cheer on the Baldwin-Woodville Blackhawks.

Climate

Baldwin, WI experiences a humid continental climate. This means that the region has four distinct seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. Here is a breakdown of the climate in Baldwin:

Summers (June to August)

Summers in Baldwin are warm and can be quite humid. Average high temperatures range from the mid-70s°F (around 24°C) in June to the low 80s°F (around 27°C) in July and August. However, temperatures can occasionally reach the 90s°F (32-35°C) during heatwaves. Summers also receive a moderate amount of rainfall, with July being the wettest month.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn in Baldwin is generally mild and pleasant. Average high temperatures drop from the low to mid-70s°F (around 22-24°C) in September to the mid-40s to low 50s°F (around 7-12°C) in November. Fall is known for its vibrant foliage, as the trees in the area change colors.

Winters (December to February)

Winters in Baldwin are cold and snowy. Average high temperatures range from the low to mid-20s°F (around -6 to -4°C) in December and January, and slightly increase to the high 20s to low 30s°F (around -2 to -1°C) in February. There is also a significant amount of snowfall, with an average annual snowfall of around 48 inches (122 cm).

Spring (March to May)

Spring in Baldwin is a transitional season with gradually warming temperatures. Average high temperatures increase from the high 30s to low 40s°F (around 3-6°C) in March to the low to mid-60s°F (around 15-18°C) in May. Spring also brings increased rainfall.

It's worth noting that extreme weather events such as thunderstorms and tornadoes can occur in this region, particularly during the summer months. Overall, Baldwin experiences distinct seasons with warm summers, cold winters, and mild transitions in spring and autumn.

Neighborhoods

Baldwin, Wisconsin, is a small village located in St. Croix County. Although Baldwin is relatively small, it is composed of multiple neighborhoods that offer various living options and amenities. Here are some of the different neighborhoods in Baldwin:

Downtown

Baldwin's downtown area is the heart of the village, characterized by its small-town charm and historic buildings. This area features local businesses, shops, restaurants, and services. It is the hub of community activities and events, such as farmers markets and festivals.

Parkview

The Parkview neighborhood is situated in the northwest part of Baldwin. It is a residential area with a mix of single-family homes and townhouses. Parkview is known for its proximity to Village Park, which offers playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports fields.

East Baldwin

Located in the eastern part of the village, this neighborhood is primarily residential. East Baldwin features a variety of housing options, including single-family homes, apartments, and duplexes. It offers a tranquil suburban atmosphere and easy access to amenities like schools, parks, and shopping centers.

West Side

The West Side neighborhood is another residential area in Baldwin. It is located west of the downtown area and offers a mix of housing styles, from historic homes to newer developments. There are several parks in the vicinity, providing opportunities for outdoor recreation.

North and South Baldwin

These neighborhoods are situated on the northern and southern edges of Baldwin, respectively. They are mostly composed of rural agricultural land, with scattered residential properties. Living in these areas offers a more secluded and quieter lifestyle, with larger lot sizes and a rural ambiance.

Baldwin's neighborhoods provide diverse living options, allowing residents to choose between vibrant downtown living, suburban comfort, or a more rural setting. Each area has its own unique characteristics and amenities, ensuring that there is something for everyone in Baldwin, Wisconsin.

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