 |
Kewaskum History
The Village of Kewaskum was named for Chief Kewaskum of the Potawatomi tribe, whose name translates to "turning on his tracks,". This name was chosen because it also describes the Milwaukee River as it make a horseshoe bend just north of the village.
During its early history, the village was almost totally dependent on agriculture for its existence. During the years prior to 1880, wheat was the major crop. The flour mill built by J. H. Myers during 1854-58 did a thriving business during this entire period.
Between 1880 and 1930, the emphasis shifted from wheat farming and milling to dairying and as a result, the Kewaskum Creamery and other small enterprises began to flourish.
Up until this time, agriculture-related businesses served as the backbone of the community. Other factors also insured Kewaskum's growth. In the early 1870's the Chicago Northwestern Railway brought the village new business and commercial links.
From the 1920's to today, the village economy shifted from agriculture-based to industry-based.
|