Tomahawk, WI
County: Lincoln
History
Tomahawk, Wisconsin is a city located in Lincoln County in the northern part of the state. The history of Tomahawk can be traced back to the early 19th century, when it was primarily inhabited by indigenous Native American tribes, including the Woodland Indians and the Ojibwe tribe.
The first white settler in the area was William F. Bradley, who arrived in the late 1850s. He built a logging camp and a dam on the Wisconsin River, which served as a vital resource for the logging industry in the region. The dam helped to transport logs downstream to supply the growing demand for timber.
In 1874, a man named Edward Hargraves discovered a large iron mine in the area, leading to an influx of miners and settlers. The discovery of iron ore brought economic growth and development to Tomahawk. The town was officially established in 1886 and quickly became a hub for the mining and logging industries.
Tomahawk continued to prosper as more settlers arrived, and by the early 20th century, it had established itself as a prominent logging community. The town had numerous sawmills, planing mills, and wood-based industries that drove the local economy.
During the early 1900s, Tomahawk also saw significant growth in tourism. Its scenic beauty and proximity to the Wisconsin River attracted tourists who came for fishing, boating, and recreational activities. Resorts, lodges, and cabins were built to accommodate the influx of tourists, and the city's tourism industry became an essential part of its economy.
However, the decline of the logging and mining industries in the mid-20th century posed challenges to Tomahawk's economy. As these industries waned, the city had to adapt and diversify its economy to survive. Today, Tomahawk has transitioned into a recreational and vacation destination, attracting visitors for its natural beauty, hunting, fishing, and outdoor activities.
The history of Tomahawk is celebrated and preserved through various historical sites, such as the Tomahawk Historical Society Museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the town's logging and mining roots. The town also hosts annual events, such as the Tomahawk Fall Ride, which brings motorcycle enthusiasts from all over the country to raise funds for local charities.
Overall, Tomahawk's history is deeply rooted in the industries that shaped its early growth, and it continues to evolve as a vibrant community today.
Attractions
Lake Mohawksin
A 1,257-acre lake with multiple public boat launches, excellent fishing opportunities, and water sports activities.
Sarah Park
A scenic park located on Lake Mohawksin with picnic areas, a beach, a boat launch, and a playground.
Harley-Davidson Museum
A museum featuring classic motorcycles, memorabilia, and exhibits dedicated to the history of Harley-Davidson.
Kwahamot Water Ski Club
A water ski club offering live performances on weekends during the summer months.
SARA Park Off-Road Adventure Trail
A 10-mile off-road trail system for ATVs, UTVs, and motorcycles, offering challenging terrain and scenic views.
Tomahawk Historical Society Museum
A museum showcasing the history of Tomahawk through exhibits and artifacts.
Hiawatha Trail
A scenic walking and biking trail that spans 6.8 miles through Tomahawk, offering beautiful views and wildlife sightings.
Northwoods Wildlife Center
A wildlife rehabilitation center that offers education programs and opportunities to observe and learn about local wildlife.
Ave Maria Shrine
A religious shrine and gardens that offer a peaceful and serene environment for reflection and prayer.
Biking and Hiking Trails
Tomahawk offers a variety of scenic biking and hiking trails, including the Riverview Trail and Northwood Outpost Snowshoe Trails.
These are just a few examples, and there may be other attractions, events, and activities available depending on the time of year and personal preferences.
Climate
Tomahawk, WI has a humid continental climate characterized by its four distinct seasons. Summers in Tomahawk are generally warm and humid with average temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (24-28 degrees Celsius). July tends to be the warmest month, with temperatures occasionally reaching the upper 80s (30 degrees Celsius) or even higher.
Winters in Tomahawk are cold and snowy, with temperatures dropping well below freezing. Average temperatures during winter range from the single digits to the low 20s Fahrenheit (-10 to -6 degrees Celsius), but can dip far lower during colder periods. December and January are usually the coldest months, and snowfall is common, creating a picturesque winter wonderland.
Spring and autumn in Tomahawk are transitional seasons with mild temperatures. Spring is generally cool and can be wet, with average temperatures gradually rising from the 30s to 50s Fahrenheit (around freezing to low teens in Celsius) in March to the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit (around 10-20 degrees Celsius) in May. Autumn, on the other hand, starts off mild with temperatures in the 50s and gradually cools down to the 30s and 40s Fahrenheit (0 to 5 degrees Celsius) by November.
Overall, Tomahawk experiences a moderate amount of rainfall throughout the year, with an annual precipitation of around 33 inches (83 cm). The area is known for its beautiful scenery and abundance of forests, lakes, and rivers, which make it an attractive destination for outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year.
Neighborhoods
Tomahawk, Wisconsin is a small city located in Lincoln County. While it is not divided into officially named neighborhoods, there are distinct areas within the city that have slightly different characteristics. Here are a few notable areas in Tomahawk:
Downtown
The heart of Tomahawk is its downtown area, which is located along Wisconsin Avenue. It is home to a variety of local businesses, shops, restaurants, and historical buildings. The downtown area also overlooks the Wisconsin River, providing scenic views.
North Side
The north side of Tomahawk is primarily residential, with a mix of single-family homes and some apartment complexes. This area is quieter compared to the downtown area and offers a more suburban feel. It is relatively close to schools and amenities.
South Side
Similar to the north side, the south side of Tomahawk is predominantly residential. There are also a few parks and recreational areas scattered throughout this area. It offers a peaceful environment away from the city center.
Lake Nokomis Area
Northeast of Tomahawk, Lake Nokomis is a popular recreational and residential area. This neighborhood offers lakefront properties, boat access, and various outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and hiking. It is known for its natural beauty and is a desirable location, particularly for those seeking a water-centric lifestyle.
Bradley Dam Area
South of the city, the Bradley Dam area includes properties near the Wisconsin River and Bradley Park. This neighborhood provides access to fishing, boating, and other water-related activities. It offers a mix of residential properties and some campgrounds.
Industrial Park
Located on the southeast side of Tomahawk, the industrial park houses various manufacturing and commercial enterprises. It is separate from the residential areas, and it contributes to the local economy.
Overall, Tomahawk, WI is a close-knit community with a small-town feel. It offers a range of neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm and characteristics. Whether you prefer a downtown atmosphere, a suburban setting, or lakefront living, there are options to suit various preferences.