New London, WI

County: Waupaca

History

New London, Wisconsin

New London, Wisconsin, is a small city located in the northeastern part of the state. Its history dates back to the early 19th century when it was first settled by Yankee pioneers.

The area where New London is situated was originally inhabited by the Menominee Native American tribe. In 1829, the United States government negotiated an agreement with the Menominee, which allowed for the opening of the area to white settlers. The land was surveyed and divided into townships, one of which became known as Lebanon.

The town of Lebanon was organized in 1852, and its name was later changed to New London in 1859. The name New London was chosen by some of the early settlers who were originally from New London, Connecticut.

One of the key factors that spurred the growth of New London was the arrival of the railroad in the late 1870s. The railroad provided a means of transportation for goods and people, attracting new residents and industry to the area. The economy of New London flourished with the establishment of sawmills, flour mills, canneries, and other businesses.

New London also played a significant role in the history of the dairy industry in Wisconsin. In 1890, a group of local farmers formed the New London Co-Operative Creamery Association, which eventually became one of the largest and most successful dairy cooperatives in the state. The creamery helped to establish New London as a major center for dairy farming and processing.

In the early 20th century, New London faced a tragic event known as the New London School explosion. On March 18, 1937, the local school building was destroyed when a natural gas leak caused a massive explosion, resulting in the loss of 294 lives, including 259 children. This event had a profound impact on the community and led to changes in school safety regulations across the United States.

Over the years, New London continued to grow and diversify its economy. Today, it is recognized for its thriving manufacturing sector, particularly in the areas of automotive components, paper products, and food processing. The city has also embraced its natural surroundings and has become a popular destination for outdoor recreation, including fishing, boating, and hunting.

In summary, New London, Wisconsin, has a rich history that includes its settlement by Yankee pioneers, the growth of its economy with the arrival of the railroad, its role in the dairy industry, and its recovery from the tragic school explosion. Today, New London remains a vibrant community with a blend of history, industry, and natural beauty.

Attractions

Mosquito Hill Nature Center

Mosquito Hill Nature Center

Explore the 430-acre nature reserve featuring trails, marshes, forests, and educational exhibits.

Wolf River

Enjoy various recreational activities like kayaking, canoeing, and fishing on this scenic river.

Hatten Park

A beautiful park offering picnic areas, walking trails, playgrounds, and a swimming beach on the shores of Lake Winnebago.

New London Heritage Historical Village

Step back in time and visit this restored historic village, featuring buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Crystal Falls

A popular destination for hiking and picnicking, Crystal Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the nearby Waupaca area.

Shamrock Heights Golf Course

Golf enthusiasts can enjoy playing 18 holes on this well-maintained course surrounded by stunning natural scenery.

Wolf River Wildlife Area

Explore the diverse wildlife and natural habitats within this protected area, with opportunities for bird watching and nature photography.

Concrete Park

Admire the unique folk art sculptures made entirely from concrete in this outdoor park. The sculptures depict various creatures and people.

Wolf River State Trail

A 33-mile scenic trail for hiking, biking, and snowmobiling that follows the former rail corridor along the Wolf River.

Wineries and Breweries

Visit local wineries and breweries in the New London area, such as von Stiehl Winery and Green Gecko Grocer & Deli.

Climate

New London, Wisconsin experiences a humid continental climate. The climate is characterized by four distinct seasons, with warm summers and cold winters.

Summer: Summers in New London are typically warm, with average high temperatures ranging from the upper 70s°F (around 25°C) to the mid-80s°F (around 30°C). July is the warmest month, with average highs reaching around 84°F (29°C). It is generally a comfortable and pleasant season, but occasional heatwaves can occur, pushing temperatures above 90°F (32°C). Summer also brings moderate to high humidity levels, and occasional thunderstorms can be experienced.

Autumn: Autumn in New London is a relatively mild and picturesque season. Temperatures gradually cool down with average highs ranging from the upper 60s°F (around 20°C) to the mid-50s°F (around 13°C) in October. As the season progresses, the foliage of the trees changes to vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, making for beautiful scenery.

Winter: Winters in New London are cold and snowy. Average high temperatures in December and January range from the mid-20s°F (around -5°C) to the low 30s°F (around -1°C). However, temperatures can drop below freezing, with occasional cold snaps bringing temperatures below zero Fahrenheit. Snowfall is common, with an average of around 45 inches (114 cm) per year. Winter storms can be expected, and it is not uncommon to experience blizzards with heavy snowfall and strong winds.

Spring: Spring in New London is a transitional season, with temperatures gradually warming up and nature coming back to life. Average highs in March are in the low 40s°F (around 5°C), and by May, temperatures increase to the mid-60s°F (around 18°C). Spring also brings increased rainfall, and occasional thunderstorms can occur.

Overall, New London, WI has a diverse climate with distinct seasons, offering residents and visitors the opportunity to enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities throughout the year.

Neighborhoods

New London is a small city located in Waupaca County, Wisconsin. It is known for its rich history, vibrant community, and beautiful natural surroundings. Although it does not have officially defined neighborhoods, there are several areas that exhibit distinctive characteristics:

Downtown

The heart of New London, the downtown area is a bustling hub of activity. It is home to the city's historic district, featuring well-preserved Victorian architecture. Here, you'll find a variety of small businesses, shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

Riverside

Located along the banks of the Wolf River, the Riverside neighborhood offers stunning views and access to recreational activities. It is a desirable area for those who enjoy fishing, boating, and other water-related pursuits. Riverside Park, a popular spot for picnicking and relaxing, is situated here.

School District

New London has an excellent school district, and the area near the schools forms a distinct neighborhood. The New London High School, along with various elementary and middle schools, are located in this area. Many families choose to live nearby for the convenience and family-friendly atmosphere.

Industrial Area

New London is home to several industrial parks, providing job opportunities for residents. The industrial area is primarily situated on the outskirts of the city, and the neighborhoods surrounding it tend to have a more rural feel.

Suburbs and Residential Areas

New London has a range of residential areas and suburbs. These neighborhoods vary in size, style, and character. From historic homes to modern subdivisions, there are options to suit different preferences and budgets.

Overall, New London offers a mix of urban and rural living with a strong sense of community. The city prides itself on being welcoming and family-oriented, offering a high quality of life for residents.

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