Harrison, WI
County: Calumet
History
Harrison is a small town located in Calumet County, Wisconsin, in the United States. The history of Harrison can be traced back to the early 1800s when the area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes. The first European settlers arrived in the mid-1800s, primarily of German descent, and began to establish farms and homesteads in the area.
The town was officially incorporated as Harrison in 1850 and named in honor of William Henry Harrison, the ninth president of the United States. Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, the town primarily revolved around agriculture, with dairy farming being a significant part of the local economy. Small businesses, such as general stores and blacksmith shops, also started to emerge to cater to the needs of the farming community.
In the early 1900s, the advent of the automobile brought some changes to Harrison. Improved transportation led to increased mobility and the ability to travel to nearby cities for employment and shopping. As a result, the town experienced a slight decline in population as some residents opted for opportunities in larger cities.
In the latter half of the 20th century, Harrison saw a gradual shift towards modernization and suburbanization. With the growth of neighboring cities like Appleton and Green Bay, Harrison started to become a popular residential community for those seeking a peaceful rural lifestyle while being in proximity to urban amenities. The town's population steadily grew, leading to the development of new housing subdivisions and infrastructure.
Today, Harrison continues to thrive as a small but vibrant community. It has maintained its agricultural roots while embracing the opportunities of suburbanization. The town offers various recreational activities and is known for its scenic rural landscapes, making it an attractive place to live for those seeking a balance between country living and suburban conveniences.
Attractions
High Cliff State Park
Located on the eastern shore of Lake Winnebago, this park offers stunning views, hiking trails, camping sites, and opportunities for boating and fishing.
Lake Winnebago
Wisconsin's largest inland lake, Lake Winnebago offers various recreational activities such as fishing, boating, water skiing, and sailing.
Gordon Bubolz Nature Preserve
This 73-acre preserve offers walking trails, wildlife viewing, and educational programs on nature and conservation.
Calumet County Park
Situated on the shores of Lake Winnebago, this park features picnic areas, a swimming beach, boat launches, and hiking trails.
Camp Winnebago
A popular summer camp for kids, Camp Winnebago offers various outdoor activities such as swimming, canoeing, archery, and nature exploration.
Appleton International Airport
Located nearby, this airport serves as a gateway to the region and offers air travel convenience.
Hearthstone Historic House Museum
Situated in nearby Appleton, this museum is the first house in the world to be powered by hydroelectricity and offers guided tours of the historic home.
These are just a few attractions in and around Harrison, WI. There are many more options for outdoor activities, nature reserves, and cultural experiences in the area.
Climate
Harrison, Wisconsin falls under the humid continental climate zone. This means it experiences four distinct seasons with warm summers and cold winters.
Summers in Harrison are typically warm and occasionally humid with average temperatures ranging from 70°F (21°C) to 80°F (27°C). The warmest month is July, with average highs of around 81°F (27°C). Thunderstorms and heavy rain showers are also common during the summer months.
Winters in Harrison are cold and snowy, with average temperatures ranging from 20°F (-7°C) to 30°F (-1°C). The coldest month is January, with average lows of around 10°F (-12°C). Harrison receives a significant amount of snowfall during the winter months, with an average annual snowfall of about 54 inches (137 cm).
Spring and autumn transitions are relatively short but pleasant. In spring, temperatures gradually rise with average highs ranging from 50°F (10°C) to 60°F (15°C). Autumn temperatures gradually cool down with average highs ranging from 50°F (10°C) to 60°F (15°C) as well. Both seasons offer milder temperatures and generally less rainfall compared to summer.
Overall, Harrison, WI experiences a typical Midwestern climate with distinct seasonal variations and a significant amount of snowfall during winter months.
Neighborhoods
Harrison, Wisconsin is located in Calumet County, and it is a rapidly growing area with several distinct neighborhoods. Here are some of the notable neighborhoods within Harrison:
Darboy
Darboy is a popular residential neighborhood located in the eastern part of Harrison. It offers a suburban feel with a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartment complexes. The area is known for its excellent schools, convenient shopping centers like the Fox River Mall, and recreational facilities such as Memorial Park and Appleton Memorial Park.
Highland Park
Highland Park is another prominent neighborhood in Harrison, situated along the western shore of Lake Winnebago. This area features a mix of upscale lakefront properties and more modest homes. Residents of Highland Park enjoy beautiful lake views, access to parks and boating facilities, and a peaceful suburban atmosphere.
Sherwood
The neighborhood of Sherwood is located in the southern part of Harrison and is known for its proximity to Lake Winnebago. Sherwood is predominantly a residential area, offering a range of housing options including single-family homes, condominiums, and apartments. The community is well-connected with several parks, including High Cliff State Park, where residents can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and fishing.
Waverly Beach
Waverly Beach is a small neighborhood situated on the northeastern edge of Harrison, along the shores of Lake Winnebago. This waterfront community is known for its scenic views, serene atmosphere, and easy access to Waverly Beach Park. The park offers beautiful sandy beaches, picnic areas, boat launches, and other recreational amenities.
Overall, the different neighborhoods in Harrison, WI provide a variety of residential options and amenities, catering to different lifestyles and preferences.