De Pere, Wisconsin: A Historical Overview and Comprehensive Guide
De Pere, a beautiful city nestled in the heart of Brown County, Wisconsin, is much more than a geographical feature on the map. It carries a rich, profound history and has a vibrant, growing community. This article aims to provide an in-depth exploration of this charming city.
Table of Contents
- History
- Neighborhoods
- Notable Attractions
- Statistical Data
History of De Pere, Wisconsin
De Pere’s history spans centuries, making it one of Wisconsin’s oldest established communities. The Menominee Indians originally inhabited the land, which was named “De Pere” after the French Jesuit Missionary, Claude-Jean Allouez. He established a mission on the site in 1671, and it was subsequently named ‘Rapides Des Peres’ – which translates to ‘Rapids of the Fathers.’
De Pere was incorporated as a village in 1857, and later, in 1883, it was chartered as a city. The city was initially divided by the Fox River into two towns, De Pere (west of the Fox River) and West De Pere (east of the Fox River). They were unified in 1890 to create the present city.
Over the years, De Pere has maintained its rich historical heritage while progressing with modern amenities, evolving into a family-oriented city that offers a high quality of life.
Neighborhoods in De Pere, Wisconsin
De Pere’s neighborhoods are the backbone of the city, each presenting its unique charm and character. Here is a brief summary of the various neighborhoods:
| Neighborhood | Notable Features |
|---|---|
| East De Pere | Known for its historical buildings and homes, it hosts St. Norbert College and the famous Broadway Street, which boasts a variety of shops and restaurants. |
| West De Pere | Home to the Community Park and Legion Park, it is a residential area with excellent schools and recreational activities. |
| Ledgeview | Mostly residential, with vast open spaces, including the Ledgeview Nature Center. |
| Lawrence | It is a predominantly agricultural area that features a mix of residential properties and farmlands. |
Notable Attractions in De Pere, Wisconsin
De Pere has a diverse array of attractions that cater to various interests.
- Heritage Parkway Trail: A six-mile loop for walking and biking, the trail offers a scenic view of the Fox River.
- De Pere Riverwalk And Wildlife Viewing Area: This place provides an opportunity to explore nature up-close and personal with a stunning view of the Fox River and local wildlife.
- White Pillars Museum: Located in a historic home dating back to 1836, this museum offers insights into De Pere’s rich history.
- Seroogy’s Chocolates: A renowned family-owned chocolate shop since 1899, it is a must-visit for every chocolate lover.
- St. Norbert College: A top-ranked Catholic liberal arts college with beautiful architecture and a peaceful campus.
Statistical Data
As of the most recent census, De Pere, Wisconsin has a population of about 25,000 people, making it a small yet closely-knit community.
- Demographics: The city is predominantly White (90.6%), with African Americans (1.2%), Asians (2.7%), and other races constituting the remainder.
- Education: De Pere is home to several excellent schools. It boasts a high school graduation rate of 93.4%, higher than the national average. About 39.1% of the population holds a bachelor’s degree or higher.
- Economy: The median household income in De Pere is approximately $64,000, which is slightly higher than the national average. The unemployment rate is relatively low at around 2.9%.
- Housing: The median home value in De Pere is approximately $200,000, with the majority of residences being owner-occupied. The city has a mix of single-family homes, apartment complexes, and small apartment buildings.
The charm of De Pere lies not just in its history or statistics but in the life that thrives within its boundaries. It’s a city that beautifully blends the old with the new, offering a warm, welcoming community that cherishes its heritage and looks forward to a vibrant future.