A Unique History

The beautiful town of Waukesha, roughly translated to “By the little fox,” was a thriving resort area during the last quarter of the nineteenth century. The tourist boom can be traced to Colonel Richard Dunbar who, while painfully suffering from diabetes, discovered the supposed “healing effects” of the local spring water. Dunbar’s claims spread throughout the area, thus giving the town its nickname,
“ .” People traveled for weeks to experience the rumored effects of the highly valued water. Around 1915, Waukesha’s resort days faded and gave way to what is now a prosperous city of more than 60,000 residents.

Visit Waukesha

Waukesha is a town rich in history and packed with contemporary flavor. The natural charm, beautiful landscape, and diverse environment of the city have turned Waukesha into a highly sought after city to live in. A mixture of truly historic buildings and contemporary businesses help the town maintain a metropolitan feel. The social life in Waukesha has something to offer all different interests and tastes, hosting various events such as art exhibits, musical, concerts, dog shows, and marathons.

During the winter months the snow falls dreamily over the city, which lends itself to guided snowshoe trips and snow skiing opportunities. Popular winter activities include curling, ice fishing, and ice skating. In the summer months you can excite your senses with several of the town’s outdoor activities or the many family oriented festivals. Camping, fishing, horseback riding and visiting the nature center are some of the favorite activities amongst the townspeople. Waukesha is also host to several outdoor events, including art shows, firework shows, plays and a country fair.

There’s No Place Like Waukesha

• In 2006, Money magazine ranked Waukesha 36th on its list of the "100 Best Places to Live", in the United States.
• In 2007 America's Promise ranked Waukesha one of the "100 Best Communities for Young People" in the United States.
• Waukesha county was named 8th “America’s Best Place to Raise a Family” by Forbes magazine.
• Waukesha was named top 100 best communities in the United States for young people.

Fun Facts About Waukesha

• Waukesha was home to Les Paul who invented the electric guitar, as well as, the first 8-track tape recorder.
• In 1916, the Waukesha Pure Food Company began production of Jiffy Jell, which later became today’s .
• The popularity of silent movies can be accredited, in large part, to the efforts of Waukesha film-producing natives, the Aitken Brothers.


• Fred MacMurray attended Carroll College before becoming an actor most famously known for playing Steve Douglas on the hit TV series My Three Sons.
• Musical composer Kurt Bestor was born in Waukesha.
• The BoDeans rock and roll group formed and got their start in Waukesha; their most recognizable song “Closer to Free” was selected as the theme song for Party of Five TV series.
• The Hamm brothers, amazing Olympic gymnastic medalists are from Waukesha.