Aurora, Kenosha County, Wisconsin facts for kids

Aurora was once a small community in Kenosha County, Wisconsin. Today, it is part of the city of Kenosha. Even though you can't find any traces of it now, Aurora played an important role in the early history of the area.

A Glimpse into Early Wisconsin

Aurora was home to one of the very first post offices in the region. This post office opened in the early 1830s. Back then, Wisconsin was not yet a state; it became a state in 1848.

The Willis Tavern: A Community Hub

The post office was located at a place called Willis Tavern. This tavern was more than just a place to eat and drink. It was the main gathering spot for the Aurora community. It was located on the west side of an old road known as the Green Bay Trail. Today, this old trail is known as Highway 31. The tavern was just north of what is now 60th Street.

Connecting Communities: The Stagecoach Line

In 1836, a stagecoach line began operating through Aurora. This line connected the growing cities of Chicago and Milwaukee. Stagecoaches were like the buses of their time. They carried people, mail, and goods between towns. Having a stagecoach stop made Aurora an important point along the travel route.

The End of Aurora

The post office in Aurora closed down in 1843. Over time, the small community faded away. Today, there are no buildings or signs left that show where Aurora once stood. This is why it is sometimes called a "ghost town." A ghost town is a place that was once a lively community but is now deserted.