Belleville, WI

Belleville, Wisconsin is a small village located in Dane and Green counties in the southern part of the state. Its history dates back to the early 19th century.

In the early 1830s, settlers from the Eastern United States began to arrive in the area that is now Belleville. One of the first settlers was Samuel Crary from New York, who arrived in 1831. He built a cabin and established a trading post and tavern. The settlement that grew around his cabin became known as "Craryville" or "Crary's Corners."

In 1843, John Frederick Klassy, a Swiss immigrant, established a post office and renamed the settlement Belleville, meaning "beautiful city" in French. The name reflected the hilly and scenic landscape of the area. Belleville started to grow as more settlers arrived and established farms and businesses.

The village experienced significant growth and development with the arrival of the railroad in 1856. The Galena and Chicago Union Railroad, which later became the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad, connected Belleville to larger cities like Chicago and Madison, boosting trade and transportation in the area.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Belleville continued to prosper as the center of a thriving agricultural community. The village's proximity to Madison attracted commuters, and it became a popular residential area for those working in the city.

Belleville faced challenges during the Great Depression, like many other communities in the United States. However, it survived and continued to develop over the years. Today, Belleville is a vibrant community with a population of approximately 2,500 residents.

The village of Belleville has preserved its historical charm with many well-maintained historic buildings, including the Belleville Public Library, the Belleville Area Historical Society Museum, and several historic homes and businesses.

Belleville hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including the annual Sugar River Triathlon, Belleville Community Picnic, and the Belleville Area Indie Market. The village's beautiful location, friendly community, and rich history make it an attractive place to live and visit in southern Wisconsin.

Lake Belle View

A picturesque lake with a sandy beach and picnic areas perfect for a day of swimming, fishing, and relaxation.

Sugar River State Trail

A popular trail for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing that runs through scenic woodlands, wetlands, and farmland.

Eisley's Orchard

A family-owned apple orchard where visitors can pick their own apples, enjoy homemade apple cider, and indulge in delicious apple treats.

Paoli Mill Park

A historic park that features a restored 19th-century grist mill, a covered bridge, walking trails, and scenic picnic areas along the Sugar River.

Belleville Area Veterans Memorial

A beautiful memorial dedicated to honoring local veterans, featuring individual plaques with the names of community members who have served in the military.

Capital Brewery

Although technically located in nearby Middleton, Capital Brewery is a popular spot for beer enthusiasts, offering tours, tastings, and an outdoor Bier Garten.

Scenic Drives

Belleville offers beautiful countryside views, and visitors can take leisurely drives on scenic routes like the Belleville-Highway PB Loop or enjoy a drive along the rustic County Road PB.

Ho-Chunk Gaming Madison

Located a short drive away in Madison, this Native American casino offers a variety of gaming options, live entertainment, and dining experiences.

Shopping and Dining

Belleville has several quaint shops, boutiques, and local restaurants where visitors can explore and enjoy the town's charming atmosphere.

Events and Festivals

Belleville hosts various events throughout the year, such as the Belleville Chili Cook-Off, Belleville UFO Day, and the Belleville Community Picnic, providing opportunities for fun and community engagement.

Belleville, Wisconsin has a continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are typically warm and humid while winters are cold and snowy. Here is a breakdown of each season:

Spring (March to May)

Spring in Belleville is mild and often rainy. Temperatures gradually rise during this season, with highs ranging from the upper 40s °F (8-9°C) in March to the upper 60s °F (18-20°C) in May. Springtime is also known for occasional thunderstorms.

Summer (June to August)

Summers in Belleville are warm and humid. Average high temperatures range from the upper 70s °F (25-28°C) in June to the upper 80s °F (29-32°C) in July and August. July is the wettest month of the year, with occasional thunderstorms. Summers are generally a great time for outdoor activities, as the region experiences a fair amount of sunshine.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumns in Belleville are mild and picturesque. September is still fairly warm with average highs in the upper 70s °F (25-28°C), gradually cooling down to the upper 40s to lower 50s °F (8-12°C) by November. The region’s lush forests and farmlands showcase vibrant fall foliage, making it a popular season for outdoor enthusiasts and sightseeing.

Winter (December to February)

Winters in Belleville are cold and snowy. Average highs during this time range from the upper 20s to lower 30s °F (-2 to 0°C). January is the coldest month, with average lows in the single digits (-13 to -6°C). Snowfall is common, and the region experiences several snowstorms throughout the season. Winter recreational activities such as skiing and snowboarding are popular in the area due to the snowy weather.

Overall, Belleville, WI experiences the typical weather patterns of the Midwest, with distinct seasons offering a range of temperatures and precipitation throughout the year.

Belleville, WI is a small village located in Dane County, Wisconsin. While it may not have a large number of distinct neighborhoods, there are a few noteworthy areas within the village:

Downtown Belleville

The heart of the village, downtown Belleville offers a charming small-town atmosphere. It features a variety of local businesses, shops, restaurants, and services. Residents and visitors can enjoy a stroll along the Main Street, explore the historic buildings, or attend community events held in this area.

West Belleville

This neighborhood is located on the western side of the village and is predominantly a residential area. It includes a mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments. The community is known for its quiet streets, tree-lined sidewalks, and well-maintained properties.

East Belleville

Situated on the eastern side of the village, this neighborhood is also primarily residential. It offers a similar atmosphere to West Belleville, with a range of housing options. The area is known for its proximity to some green spaces, including parks and walking trails.

Lake Belle View

Located just south of Belleville, this community is adjacent to Lake Belle View. It features a mix of lakefront properties, offering picturesque views and opportunities for water activities such as boating and fishing. The area is known for its tranquil and scenic environment.

Rural Belleville

Outside of the village limits, there are expansive rural areas surrounding Belleville. These areas are primarily agricultural, with wide-open farmland and countryside. Residents in this region can enjoy a more secluded and peaceful lifestyle while still being in proximity to the village.

Overall, Belleville, WI is a close-knit community with a variety of residential areas, a charming downtown, and beautiful natural surroundings. Whether you prefer a quaint urban setting, a lakeside retreat, or a rural lifestyle, Belleville has options to suit different preferences.