Algoma, Wisconsin facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Algoma, Wisconsin
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Most of Algoma, taken on June 27, 2020
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Location of Algoma in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin.
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| Country | United States |
| State | Wisconsin |
| County | Kewaunee |
| Area | |
| • Total | 2.50 sq mi (6.48 km2) |
| • Land | 2.46 sq mi (6.36 km2) |
| • Water | 0.04 sq mi (0.11 km2) |
| Elevation | 581 ft (177 m) |
| Population
(2020)
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| • Total | 3,243 |
| • Density | 1,241.04/sq mi (479.07/km2) |
| Time zone | UTC-6 (Central (CST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-5 (CDT) |
| ZIP code(s) |
54201
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| Area code(s) | 920 |
| FIPS code | 55-01000 |
| GNIS feature ID | 1560759 |
| State Highways |   |
Algoma (/ælˈɡoʊmə/ al-GOH-mə) is a city in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin. It is located in the United States. In 2020, about 3,243 people lived there. Algoma is part of the larger Green Bay area.
Contents
History of Algoma
The area that is now Algoma was first settled in 1834 by Joseph McCormick. Early pioneers from Ireland and England moved there in 1851. They called the place Wolf River. This name came from stories told by the local Potawatomi people about wolves. Today, the wolf is the mascot for Algoma High School. In the Menominee language, the town is called Ākem, which means "snowshoe."
Growth and Name Changes
In the mid-1800s, many immigrants from Germany, Bohemia, Scandinavia, and Belgium came to live in the community. The first businesses included a sawmill, a general store, and churches. In 1859, the town's name changed from Wolf to Ahnapee. This name came from a Chippewa word, anin api, meaning "when." The town surrounding Algoma is still called Ahnapee.
Surviving the Peshtigo Fire
In 1871, a huge fire called the Peshtigo Fire swept through the area. It destroyed thousands of acres of land. The people of Ahnapee were ready to leave, but heavy rains put out the fire just before it reached their town.
The Railroad Arrives
Ahnapee grew a lot when the Ahnapee and Western Railway arrived in 1892. This railroad connected the town to the national rail system for 94 years. Because of the railroad, several factories were built in Ahnapee. One important factory was the Ahnapee Seating & Veneer Company, which operated until 2017.
Becoming the City of Algoma
Ahnapee officially became a city on February 23, 1879. In 1897, the city's name was changed to Algoma. This new name might have come from an Indigenous term meaning "park of flowers." The local newspaper, the Ahnapee Record, also changed its name to the Algoma Record. At that time, Algoma had the largest commercial fishing fleet on Lake Michigan. Today, fishing for fun is still a big draw for tourists.
In 2020, Algoma won the All-America City Award. This award recognized the city's efforts to help young people stay in the area. They created programs like student mentoring and job opportunities. They also built a community wellness center.
Geography and Location
Algoma is located at 44°36′30″N 87°26′32″W / 44.608226°N 87.442342°W. It sits right on the shore of Lake Michigan, where the Ahnapee River flows into the lake.
The city covers about 2.51 square miles (6.48 square kilometers). Most of this area is land, with a small part being water.
Transportation in Algoma
WIS 42 goes north to Sturgeon Bay and south to Kewaunee.
WIS 54 connects Algoma to Green Bay when you travel west.- The Ahnapee State Trail is a path for walking and biking. It connects Algoma to Forestville and Casco. Part of this trail is also part of the Ice Age Trail.
Population Information
| Historical population | |||
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| Census | Pop. | %± | |
| 1880 | 948 | — | |
| 1890 | 1,015 | 7.1% | |
| 1900 | 1,738 | 71.2% | |
| 1910 | 2,082 | 19.8% | |
| 1920 | 1,911 | −8.2% | |
| 1930 | 2,202 | 15.2% | |
| 1940 | 2,652 | 20.4% | |
| 1950 | 3,384 | 27.6% | |
| 1960 | 3,855 | 13.9% | |
| 1970 | 4,023 | 4.4% | |
| 1980 | 3,656 | −9.1% | |
| 1990 | 3,353 | −8.3% | |
| 2000 | 3,357 | 0.1% | |
| 2010 | 3,167 | −5.7% | |
| 2020 | 3,243 | 2.4% | |
| U.S. Decennial Census | |||
2010 Census Details
In 2010, there were 3,167 people living in Algoma. The city had 1,406 households. The average age of people in Algoma was about 44.6 years old. About 21% of the people were under 18 years old.
Culture and Events
Algoma hosts several fun events throughout the year:
- Algoma Car Show: Since 2000, this annual show features classic cars and trucks in downtown Algoma.
- Shanty Days: This is a big celebration held every August. It includes different foods, music, an arts and crafts show, a parade, a 5k run/walk, and fireworks.
- Concerts in the Park Series: During July and August, free concerts are held in Heritage Park. Local businesses and the city help put on these shows.
- Soar on the Shore Kite and Beach Festival: This free family event happens every August. It features professional kite flyers, crafts, and activities for children.
Notable People
Many interesting people have connections to Algoma:
- Harris Burgoyne, a former mayor of Green Bay, Wisconsin.
- Richard W. Fellows, a Brigadier General in the U.S. Air Force.
- Lawrence Johnson, a Wisconsin State Representative.
- Maynard T. Parker, a Wisconsin State Assemblyperson and judge.
- M. W. Perry, a Wisconsin State Senator.
- Mark Francis Schmitt, a Roman Catholic Bishop.
- Albert D. Shimek, a Wisconsin State Representative.
- De Wayne Stebbins, a Wisconsin State Senator.
Images for kids
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Crescent Beach boardwalk
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Welcome sign
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Visitor information center
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Highway 42 at Highway 54
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Looking over Lake Michigan at part of Algoma
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Downtown Algoma on WIS 42
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Public library
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Aerial view taken on February 22, 2015
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Harbor at dusk, with the Art Dettman Fishing Shanty on the right
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Sunrise Cove Marina
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Sunset
See also
In Spanish: Algoma (Wisconsin) para niños
