Germantown is located in Washington County in Wisconsin. It has its share of noteworthy attractions that draw visitors from across the state and the country. Germantown is home to the German-American Festival, which draws large crowds every year to celebrate its rich heritage and history. The festival has been an annual attraction since 1967 and has grown more significant over time with more entertainment acts and activities.
Germantown also offers a lovely park district and many trails for bicycling or walks for those who want peace and quiet. See more here.
Wisconsin Historical Markers
Several historical markers located in Germantown give the town’s history and its place within Wisconsin. Visitors will find such features as:
1) The First Stamp Mill in America – Built by Henry Schweizer, a Swiss-born blacksmith. The stamp mill was a primary factor in developing a town, and it became the first one in America.
2) Indian Trail – This trail ran from Milwaukee to Port Washington and was used by the American Indians as a trading route. It is beside the Dousman Town Hall and across from the Germantown Historical Society Museum.
3) Marcus Chotke House – This structure has been restored inside and out to its original state as much as possible. It was built in 1860 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
4) George Gibbs House – This is the oldest house in Germantown. It was built in 1846 and is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
5) The V.F.W. Hall – Built in 1912, this is a popular entertainment attraction for large gatherings and parties circa the 1920s-1960s.
Each marker tells a small part of Germantown’s history and its role in Wisconsin’s past from earliest to most recent times. Those who want to know more about the history of Germantown will find it an exciting and educational experience to follow those markers around town.
Parks and Recreation in Germantown, WI
Germantown has several parks that provide recreational activities for all ages. The most popular one is Parklawn Park which features a playground, volleyball court, athletic field, picnic tables, bike trails, and a ball diamond. The park district also has swimming pools open during the summer months or once school is out for the year.
Germantown Historical Society Museum
The Germantown Historical Society was created in 1968 to preserve the history of Germantown through photos, documents, and other memorabilia. It houses many period artifacts and is a popular site for learning about Germantown’s past. One exhibit of note is an original Schweizer Stamp Mill which Henry Schweizer crafted. The Historical Society offers tours to school groups, families, and other visitors from April through October. Tours can be made by appointment at different times of the year. The society also raises funds for its museum through the German-American Festival.
Conclusion
Visit Germantown any time of the year and get a feeling for Wisconsin’s past. You can learn about its rich heritage in agriculture, culture, and industry.