Welcome to Waupun

"...rich agricultural land, expanding industrial presence,

and a strong commitment to quality schools..."

Hello and welcome to Waupun, Wisconsin.  You’ll find our city nestled on the southern branch of the Rock River.  Small town charm and a strong sense of community abound in this city of just over 11,000 people.  Founded in 1839 by Seymour Wilcox, the first settler along the Rock River, the name Waupun comes from the Ojibwe word “Waubun” which means “dawn of day.”  The “b” became a “p” when the City’s name was commissioned in 1840 and a spelling error was made.  Today the area is known for its rich agricultural land, expanding industrial presence, commitment to quality schools, and an array of outdoor recreational opportunities that include the northern access points of the Horicon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge.

Known as the City of Sculpture, Waupun is home to one of the largest collections of outdoor sculptures per capita in the United States many which were gifted to the city by Waupun Industrialist Clarence Shaler. The collection includes the world-renown End of the Trail sculpture by James Earl Frasier that depicts the plight of Native Americans.  Regular live events bring both music and theatre venues to Waupun’s Historic City Hall Auditorium, a building known for its old-world charm and incredible acoustics.

Our community is centrally located and is within a one-hour drive of three major cities, offering the accommodations of larger cities with a strong sense of local community. Waupun is known for its rich agricultural land, expanding industrial presence, commitment to quality schools, and an array of outdoor recreational opportunities that include the Horicon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge.

Whether you are looking to raise a family, start a business, explore the outdoors or enjoy arts, history and culture, there’s something here for you and we welcome you to Waupun.

See you around town!

- Mayor Rohn W. Bishop