Waupun (town), Wisconsin

Waupun is a city in Dodge and Fond du Lac Counties in the U.S. state of Wisconsin. The city is bisected by the Rock River and is best known for its correctional facilities, including Waupun Correctional Institution.

History

Waupun was founded in 1839 by Seymour Wilcox, who built a dam and sawmill on the Rock River. The name "Waupun" is said to be derived from a Native American word meaning "early dawn" or "daybreak." The arrival of the Milwaukee and St. Paul Railroad in the 1850s boosted the city's growth.

Geography

Waupun is located at approximately 43°38′56″N 88°43′33″W (43.648991, -88.725743). According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 5.29 square miles (13.70 km2), of which, 5.14 square miles (13.31 km2) is land and 0.15 square miles (0.39 km2) is water.

Demographics

As of the census of 2010, there were 11,340 people, 3,644 households, and 2,409 families residing in the city. The population density was 2,206.2 inhabitants per square mile (851.8/km2). The racial makeup of the city was 86.9% White, 7.4% African American, 0.4% Native American, 0.6% Asian, 3.4% from other races, and 1.4% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 7.5% of the population.

Economy

Waupun's economy is largely driven by its correctional facilities, as well as agriculture and manufacturing.

Points of Interest

• Waupun Correctional Institution
• Horicon Marsh (nearby)
• The Rock River

Government

Waupun has a mayor-council form of government.

Education

The Waupun School District serves the city.