Portage, Wisconsin

The historical distinction of Portage lies in its unique geographical location between the Fox and Wisconsin Rivers . Here, the two rivers, one flowing north to the St. Lawrence, the other, south to the Mississippi, are separated by a narrow neck of land over which, for two centuries, Indians, missionaries, trappers, traders, adventurers and settlers traveling the waterway had to portage their canoes and heavy packs from one stream to another.

The lumbering industry brought a tide of hardy woodsmen and rivermen to Portage during its heyday. Here they began their trek north or stopped here for rowdy pleasure and relaxation on the route southward on their Wisconsin River rafts.

Agriculture took over the lumbering days, but Portage has enjoyed its share of industry too. Today the city is a progressive community treasuring the story of its past and anxious and willing to share it with visitors and guests.