Excelsior, Wisconsin facts for kids
Excelsior, Wisconsin is a name that can refer to two different places in the state of Wisconsin, USA. When you see "Excelsior, Wisconsin," it's important to know which specific place is being talked about, because they are in different counties.
Contents
What Does Excelsior Mean?
The word "Excelsior" comes from Latin and means "ever upward" or "higher." It's a word often used to show hope or ambition. Many places, schools, and even companies use this name because of its positive meaning.
Excelsior in Richland County
Where is Excelsior, Richland County?
One place named Excelsior is an unincorporated community located in Richland County, Wisconsin. An "unincorporated community" means it's a group of homes and businesses that isn't officially a city or a village with its own local government. Instead, it's part of a larger town or county for administrative purposes.
What is Richland County Like?
Richland County is in the southwestern part of Wisconsin. It's known for its beautiful natural areas, including rolling hills and valleys, and is part of the Driftless Area, a region that wasn't covered by glaciers during the last Ice Age. This gives it unique landscapes compared to other parts of Wisconsin.
Excelsior in Sauk County
Where is Excelsior, Sauk County?
The other place named Excelsior is a town in Sauk County, Wisconsin. In Wisconsin, a "town" is a type of local government unit that covers a rural area, often including smaller communities or farms. It's different from a city or a village.
What is Sauk County Known For?
Sauk County is located in south-central Wisconsin. It's famous for its natural attractions like Devil's Lake State Park, which has stunning bluffs and a large lake, making it a popular spot for hiking and outdoor activities. The Wisconsin River also flows through parts of Sauk County.
Why Are There Two Excelsiors?
It's quite common for different places in the same state or country to share a name. This often happens because settlers moving into new areas might choose names that remind them of their old homes, or pick popular, inspiring words like "Excelsior." To avoid confusion, people usually add the county name (like "Richland County" or "Sauk County") when they talk about these places.
