Appleton

Appleton is a city in Outagamie, Calumet, and Winnebago counties in the U.S. state of Wisconsin. It is situated on the Fox River, 30 miles southwest of Green Bay and 100 miles north of Milwaukee. Appleton is the principal city of the Appleton Metropolitan Statistical Area, which is included in the Appleton-Oshkosh-Neenah Combined Statistical Area.

History

Appleton was settled in 1847 and incorporated as a village in 1853. It became a city in 1857. The city was named after Samuel Appleton, a wealthy Bostonian who was a major donor to Lawrence University, which was founded in 1847. The university played a significant role in the early development of the city.

Geography

Appleton is located at the coordinates 44°16′N 88°24′W. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 24.82 square miles, of which 24.33 square miles is land and 0.49 square miles is water. The city is part of the Fox Cities region, which includes several other communities along the Fox River.

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, the population of Appleton was 75,644. The city has a diverse population with a mix of different ethnic and racial groups. The median household income is $58,000, and the per capita income is $30,000.

Economy

Appleton has a diverse economy with key industries including manufacturing, retail, and healthcare. Major employers in the area include ThedaCare, Miller Electric, and Thrivent Financial. The city is also home to the Fox River Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in Wisconsin.

Education

Appleton is served by the Appleton Area School District, which includes several elementary, middle, and high schools. The city is also home to Lawrence University, a private liberal arts college known for its strong programs in music and the arts.

Culture and Recreation

Appleton offers a variety of cultural and recreational activities. The city is home to the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center, which hosts a range of performances including Broadway shows, concerts, and community events. The Hearthstone Historic House Museum and the History Museum at the Castle are popular attractions that offer insights into the city's history.

Healthcare

Appleton is served by several healthcare facilities, including ThedaCare Regional Medical Center-Appleton and St. Elizabeth Hospital. These institutions provide a wide range of medical services to the community.

Transportation

Appleton is accessible via several major highways, including Interstate 41, U.S. Route 10, and Wisconsin Highway 47. The city is also served by the Appleton International Airport, which offers flights to several major cities.

Notable People

• Harry Houdini, famous magician and escape artist, spent part of his childhood in Appleton.
• Edna Ferber, Pulitzer Prize-winning author, was born in Kalamazoo, Michigan, but grew up in Appleton.

Related Pages

• Outagamie County, Wisconsin
• Calumet County, Wisconsin
• Winnebago County, Wisconsin
• Fox River (Wisconsin)
• Lawrence University
• ThedaCare
• Fox Cities Performing Arts Center
• Appleton International Airport