Sauk Prairie, Wisconsin facts for kids
Sauk Prairie is a special name for two nearby villages in Wisconsin: Sauk City and Prairie du Sac. These two communities are located on the west side of the Wisconsin River. They are in the southeastern part of Sauk County. Here, a major road called U.S. Highway 12 crosses the Wisconsin River. In 2020, about 7,938 people lived in both villages combined.
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What is Sauk Prairie?
Sauk City and Prairie du Sac are often seen as a single area. They share many things, like their location and history. However, they are also separate villages. Sometimes, people even talk about a "rivalry" between them. This means they compete a little, like friendly rivals.
Why Are They Separate?
Even though they are close, these two villages have never officially joined together. People have talked about combining them into one big village many times. These talks have happened over several decades. But each time, the idea has not been approved.
Past Attempts to Merge
The idea of merging the villages came up in 1939. But not enough people supported it for a vote to happen. Later, in the 1970s, discussions started again. In 1972, people in Prairie du Sac voted to merge. But people in Sauk City voted against it.
In 1983, Sauk City's village leaders decided to stop talking about a merger. They put the idea aside. Again, in 1986, Sauk City leaders said no to a vote on combining the villages.
In 1990, there was an advisory vote. This means it was a suggestion, not a final decision. Most voters in both villages said yes to merging. But the next, binding vote was different. Only Prairie du Sac voters approved it. Sauk City voters said no again.
Concerns About Merging
People had several worries about merging. Some worried about how much it would cost taxpayers. Others wondered if they would agree on big projects for the community. Many also felt strongly about their own village's identity. They liked being from Sauk City or Prairie du Sac.
Even though they are separate, Sauk City and Prairie du Sac work together a lot. They share many important services. This helps both communities run smoothly.
How They Work Together
The villages have a combined police department. It is called the Sauk Prairie Police Department. They also share an ambulance service. And they have one water treatment plant for both villages.
The Sauk Prairie School District serves students from both Sauk City and Prairie du Sac. Many local businesses and groups also use the name "Sauk Prairie." For example, there are local newspapers called the Sauk Prairie Star and the Sauk Prairie Eagle. There is also the Sauk Prairie Hospital and the Sauk Prairie Airport. Other groups include the Sauk Prairie Area Literacy Council and the Sauk Prairie Area Chamber of Commerce.
What Stays Separate
Some services remain separate for each village. Sauk City and Prairie du Sac each have their own fire department. They also have separate systems for collecting sewage. And each village has its own public library.
Sauk Prairie in Books
Sauk Prairie is famous in literature. A local author named August Derleth wrote many books, stories, and poems about the area. His collection of works is called the Sac Prairie Saga. These stories help keep the history and spirit of Sauk Prairie alive.
