Plover, WI
County: Portage
History
Plover is a village located in Portage County, Wisconsin, United States. The history of Plover dates back to the mid-19th century when European settlers began to arrive in the area.
In the early 1800s, Native American tribes, particularly the Menominee and Ho-Chunk, inhabited the region where Plover is now located. The first European settlers arrived in the 1840s, with Louis Grignon being one of the earliest known settlers. He established a trading post just south of what would become the village of Plover.
The village was officially established in 1857 and was named after a species of bird in the area, the Plover. Throughout the 19th century, Plover experienced slow but steady growth. It was primarily an agricultural community, with farms and small businesses contributing to the local economy.
One of the significant events in Plover's history was the arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century. In 1889, the Chicago, Milwaukee, and St. Paul Railroad built a train depot in Plover, which brought further growth and economic opportunities to the village.
In the early 20th century, Plover saw the establishment of various industries such as brickmaking, flour mills, and cranberry farming. These industries played a vital role in the village's growth and development.
During World War II, Plover experienced a population boom due to its proximity to the nearby military base, Camp McCoy (now Fort McCoy). The camp brought in thousands of soldiers and support staff, which provided a boost to the local economy.
In more recent years, Plover has continued to grow as a residential community with a diverse mix of industries. It is known for its proximity to recreational areas such as the Wisconsin River and Lake Pacawa. The village has also seen commercial development, including shopping centers, restaurants, and various businesses.
Today, Plover remains a vibrant community with a mix of agricultural, industrial, and residential areas. It has a population of over 12,000 people and continues to attract residents and businesses alike. The village's rich history can be seen in several historic buildings and landmarks, including the Plover Historical Society Museum.
Attractions
Lake Pacawa
A beautiful lake known for fishing, boating, and summer recreation activities like swimming and kayaking.
Iverson Park
A popular park featuring hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and a swimming beach.
Golden Sands Speedway
A race track where visitors can watch thrilling stock car racing events during the summer.
Korean War Veterans Memorial
A memorial located in Lake Pacawa Park honoring the veterans of the Korean War.
McDill Pond
A serene pond surrounded by nature, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing.
Standing Rocks County Park
A recreational area with trails for hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing, as well as a disc golf course.
Farmer's Market
Plover hosts a farmer's market where visitors can purchase fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts.
Wisconsin Korean War Veterans Memorial Museum
A museum dedicated to preserving the history and honoring the sacrifices made by Wisconsin veterans of the Korean War.
Rosholt Fair Park
A fairground that hosts various events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and the annual Rosholt Fair.
Plover River Segment
A section of the Ice Age Trail, providing scenic views and opportunities for hiking and bird watching.
Climate
Plover, WI, experiences a humid continental climate, classified as a warm-summer version of this climate type. The town is located in Portage County in central Wisconsin, within the United States.
Plover experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year. Summers in Plover are typically warm and humid, with July being the warmest month. Average high temperatures during this season range from the mid-70s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (24-29°C), while overnight lows range from the upper 50s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit (14-18°C).
Autumns in Plover are characterized by gradually cooling temperatures and vibrant foliage colors. September sees average highs in the upper 60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (18-23°C), while October experiences highs in the 50s to low 60s Fahrenheit (10-16°C). Overnight lows during this season range from the 40s to 50s Fahrenheit (4-12°C).
Winter in Plover is cold and snowy. December, January, and February are the coldest months, with average high temperatures ranging from the upper 20s to low 30s Fahrenheit (-2 to 0°C). Overnight lows drop to the teens to low 20s Fahrenheit (-7 to -6°C). Snowfall is common, with Plover receiving an average of around 50 inches (127 cm) of snow per year.
Spring brings a gradual warming to Plover. March experiences average highs in the upper 30s to low 40s Fahrenheit (3-6°C), while April sees highs in the 50s to low 60s Fahrenheit (10-16°C). Overnight lows during spring range from the 20s to 30s Fahrenheit (-6 to -1°C).
Overall, Plover, WI, has a four-season climate with warm and humid summers, cold and snowy winters, and mild spring and autumn seasons. It is important to note that climate patterns can vary from year to year, and these descriptions are based on averages for the area.
Neighborhoods
Plover is a small village located in central Wisconsin, just south of the city of Stevens Point. While Plover is not divided into distinct neighborhoods by formal boundaries, there are a few areas within the village that offer different characteristics and amenities. Here are some notable areas of Plover:
Downtown Plover
The heart of the village, downtown Plover offers a compact and walkable area with local shops, businesses, and restaurants. It is a great place to explore and soak in the small-town charm.
North Plover
This area is primarily residential, consisting of various neighborhoods with single-family homes. It is a family-friendly area with schools, parks, and community facilities.
Lake Pacawa
Located on the southeastern side of the village, Lake Pacawa is a scenic area with waterfront homes and recreational opportunities. The lake is popular for boating, fishing, and picnicking.
Industrial Park
Situated on the north side of Plover, the Industrial Park is a major economic hub of the village. It houses various businesses and industries, providing employment opportunities for the local community.
Crossroads Commons
While technically located in Stevens Point, just north of Plover, Crossroads Commons is a large retail area that caters to the needs of Plover residents. It serves as a shopping destination with numerous stores, supermarkets, and restaurants.
Plover's neighborhoods offer a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational opportunities, making it a desirable place to live and work.