Hudson, WI

County: St. Croix

History

Hudson, Wisconsin

Hudson, Wisconsin, is a city located along the St. Croix River in St. Croix County. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Dakota, Ojibwe, and Ho-Chunk people.

In the early 19th century, European settlers began to arrive in the region. Hudson was founded in 1840 by Louis Massey and Peter Bouchea, who built a log cabin near the present-day downtown area. The town was originally named Willow River, but was later changed to Hudson in honor of the Hudson River in New York.

Hudson became an important trading post due to its location on the St. Croix River, which served as a major transport route for fur traders and other settlers. The construction of a dam on the river in 1851 helped to further stimulate economic growth in the area.

During the mid-19th century, Hudson experienced rapid development, with the establishment of businesses, schools, and churches. It also became a hub for steamboat traffic, connecting the region to the growing cities along the Mississippi River.

In the late 1800s, Hudson faced a series of challenges, including a devastating fire in 1878 that destroyed much of its downtown area. However, the city quickly rebuilt and continued to grow.

In the 20th century, Hudson shifted from an industrial and trade-oriented economy to a more residential and tourist-focused community. The area's natural beauty, with its picturesque river views and scenic surroundings, attracted many visitors and new residents.

Today, Hudson is a vibrant city that blends its rich history with modern amenities. It is known for its charming downtown area, which features a mix of historic buildings, shops, restaurants, and art galleries. The city also offers various recreational opportunities, including parks, trails, and access to the St. Croix River.

Overall, Hudson's history is marked by its strategic location along the St. Croix River, its role as a trading post, and its subsequent growth into a thriving community.

Attractions

Willow River State Park

Willow River State Park

A beautiful park offering hiking trails, a cascading waterfall, picnic areas, and camping facilities.

St. Croix River

The St. Croix River runs along Hudson and offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and scenic cruises.

Historic Downtown Hudson

Explore the charming historic downtown area with its boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries.

Hudson Food Walk

Embark on a food tour of Hudson, sampling delicious local cuisine and learning about the city's history.

Phipps Center for the Arts

A cultural hub featuring art exhibits, live performances, and educational programs for all ages.

Octagon House Museum

Visit this unique octagon-shaped house turned museum to learn about the area's history and architecture.

Troy Burne Golf Club

Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round of golf at this championship golf course set in a scenic landscape.

Pitchfork Brewing Company

Indulge in craft beers and enjoy live music at this local brewery and taproom.

Seasons on St. Croix Gallery

Browse and purchase artwork created by local, regional, and national artists at this contemporary art gallery.

Historic Casper Oimoen Log House

Step back in time by exploring this restored log cabin that showcases the area's pioneer history.

Climate

Hudson, Wisconsin has a humid continental climate. Summers in Hudson are typically warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (24-29 degrees Celsius). However, occasional heatwaves can push temperatures into the 90s (32-35 degrees Celsius). The summer months also see frequent thunderstorms.

Winters in Hudson are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. High temperatures during winter range from the teens to 30s Fahrenheit (-9 to -1 degree Celsius), while lows can reach into the single digits below zero Fahrenheit (-20s-degree Celsius). The area receives significant snowfall, with an average of around 50 inches (127 cm) per year.

Spring and autumn in Hudson are mild and relatively short seasons. Spring brings mild temperatures, but occasional snowfall can still occur. Autumn is characterized by gradual cooling temperatures and stunning foliage colors, with highs in the 50s to 60s Fahrenheit (10-20 degrees Celsius).

Overall, Hudson experiences a wide range of temperatures with significant variation between seasons, allowing residents to enjoy both warm summers and snowy winters.

Neighborhoods

Hudson, WI is a charming city located along the scenic St. Croix River. The city is known for its picturesque landscapes, historic downtown, and vibrant community. Here are some of the different neighborhoods in Hudson:

Historic Downtown

This is the heart of Hudson, where you'll find a collection of beautifully preserved historic buildings, local shops, restaurants, and art galleries. The area is perfect for a leisurely stroll along the riverfront or exploring the unique boutiques.

North Hudson

Located just across the river from downtown, North Hudson offers a mix of residential areas and commercial establishments. The neighborhood boasts beautiful parks, including Lakefront Park, which provides stunning views of the St. Croix River.

Willow River

Situated on the eastern side of Hudson, Willow River is surrounded by nature and offers a more rural atmosphere. This neighborhood is known for its open spaces, hiking trails, and the popular Willow River State Park, which features a cascading waterfall.

River Crest

River Crest is a newer residential neighborhood located on the south side of town. The area features well-maintained homes and provides easy access to highways, making it a convenient location for commuters.

St. Croix Meadows

This neighborhood is located in the southeastern part of Hudson and offers a mix of residential and commercial areas. It is known for its proximity to the St. Croix Meadows Shopping Center, providing residents with convenient shopping options.

Carmichael Road

Situated on the western side of Hudson, Carmichael Road is a mostly residential area with a mix of housing options. This neighborhood offers a suburban feel with tree-lined streets and well-kept properties.

Overall, Hudson's neighborhoods offer a diverse range of living environments, from historic downtown charm to rural tranquility and modern suburban areas. Whether you're looking for a small-town feel or a more bustling community, Hudson has something to offer.

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