Ripon, WI

Ripon, Wisconsin is a city located in Fond du Lac County in the state of Wisconsin, United States. The history of Ripon can be traced back to the mid-19th century.

The area where Ripon is located was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Winnebago and Potawatomi Nations. European-American settlement began in the early 1840s when David P. Mapes, a New York state senator, purchased land in the region and named it "Ripon" after a city in England.

In 1849, the Village of Ripon was officially established, and it quickly became an important center of commerce and trade due to its strategic location, situated on the banks of the picturesque Silver Creek and surrounded by fertile farmland.

One of the notable events in Ripon's history is the founding of the Republican Party. On March 20, 1854, a group of anti-slavery activists met in a schoolhouse in Ripon to discuss their opposition to the Kansas-Nebraska Act, which would allow slavery in new territories. This meeting is often considered the birth of the Republican Party. A historical marker at that schoolhouse commemorates this significant event.

Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, Ripon experienced growth and development. The arrival of the railroad in 1859 further stimulated the economy and helped connect the city to larger markets. The establishment of various industries, including mills, breweries, and a condensed milk factory, helped diversify the local economy.

Ripon College, a liberal arts college, was founded in 1851, making it Wisconsin's oldest private college. The college has played a significant role in the cultural and intellectual life of the community for over a century.

In recent years, Ripon has focused on preserving its historical heritage and promoting itself as a tourist destination. Many of the city's historic buildings have been restored and are now used for various purposes, including shops, restaurants, and art galleries.

Today, Ripon continues to thrive as a small, friendly community with a population of approximately 7,600 residents. It offers a blend of historic charm, natural beauty, and a vibrant cultural scene, making it an attractive place to visit or live.

Little White Schoolhouse

The historic site where the Republican Party was founded in 1854. It now serves as a museum and offers guided tours.

Ripon College

A private liberal arts college known for its beautiful campus and various cultural and sporting events.

Green Lake

A popular lake known for its clear waters and opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and other water activities.

Ripon Historic District

A designated historical district with over 300 century-old buildings, displaying beautiful architecture and a charming small-town atmosphere.

Vines & Rushes Winery

A family-owned winery where visitors can enjoy wine tastings, vineyard tours, and live music events.

Murray Park

A picturesque park located along Silver Creek, offering walking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and a gazebo.

Ripon's Farmers Market

Held on Saturdays from June to October, the market offers fresh produce, homemade goods, and local crafts.

Green Lake Conference Center

A Christian conference center with a scenic setting on the shores of Green Lake, offering lodging, dining, and various recreational activities.

Larson's Famous Clydesdales

A working farm where visitors can see and interact with the famous Clydesdale horses, take wagon rides, and learn about the breed's history.

LaClare Family Creamery

A popular destination for cheese lovers, offering award-winning artisanal cheeses, tastings, and a cafe with farm-to-table cuisine.

Ripon, Wisconsin, has a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers in Ripon are warm and humid, with average high temperatures ranging from the upper 70s °F (25-27 °C) to the low 80s °F (27-30 °C). Heatwaves can occur, with temperatures reaching the 90s °F (32-37 °C), but they are usually short-lived. Average low temperatures during summer range from the low 60s °F (15-17 °C) to the upper 60s °F (19-21 °C). Thunderstorms are common during the summer months.

Autumn in Ripon brings cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage. High temperatures range from the upper 50s °F (12-14 °C) to the mid-60s °F (16-18 °C), while lows range from the mid-30s °F (1-3 °C) to the low 40s °F (4-7 °C). This season is generally mild and pleasant, with occasional rainfall.

Winter in Ripon can be quite cold and snowy. High temperatures average in the low 30s °F (-1 to 1 °C), with occasional dips below freezing. Low temperatures often drop into the teens (-7 to -10 °C), and sometimes even reach single digits (-10 to -13 °C). Snowfall is common, with an average of 40-50 inches (102-127 cm) per year. Winters in Ripon can be long, lasting from November through March, and sometimes into April.

Spring gradually brings milder temperatures to Ripon. Highs are in the upper 40s °F (8-9 °C) to the low 60s °F (15-17 °C), while lows range from the low 30s °F (0 to 2 °C) in March to the upper 40s °F (8-9 °C) in May. Rainfall is moderate during this season.

Overall, Ripon experiences a typical Midwestern climate with distinct seasons, making it a great place for those who enjoy experiencing the full range of weather conditions throughout the year.

Ripon, Wisconsin is a small city located in Fond du Lac County. While not a large city, it does have several distinct neighborhoods that offer different atmospheres and amenities. Here are some of the main neighborhoods in Ripon:

Downtown Ripon

This is the heart of the city, characterized by historic architecture, charming shops, and local businesses. Downtown Ripon is known for its small-town feel and community events, such as farmers markets and festivals. Many historic homes and buildings can be found in this area.

Colonial House District

Situated just east of downtown, the Colonial House District features beautiful homes that were built during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This neighborhood showcases different architectural styles, such as Victorian, Colonial Revival, and Craftsman, making it aesthetically appealing.

Pheasant Branch

Located on the south side of Ripon, Pheasant Branch is a suburban neighborhood primarily made up of single-family homes. It offers a quieter, residential environment with tree-lined streets and spacious yards. This area is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and proximity to schools and parks.

Bloyer Addition

Bloyer Addition is another residential neighborhood found on Ripon's south side. It consists of a mix of older and newer homes on well-maintained streets. Bloyer Addition provides a close-knit community vibe, with many residents who have lived in the area for years.

Westwoods

Westwoods is one of the newer neighborhoods in Ripon, located on the west side of the city. It offers various housing options, including single-family homes, condominiums, and apartments. Westwoods has a more modern feel and is conveniently situated near shopping centers and restaurants.

Overall, Ripon's different neighborhoods provide a diverse range of housing options and atmospheres. Whether you prefer a historic downtown feel or a quiet suburban setting, Ripon has something to offer for residents and visitors alike.