 At the far eastern end of Vernon County is the location of the 3rd largest city in Vernon County, the City of Hillsboro. It has a history that dates back to 1850. The areas earliest industries were lumber, farming and cheese making. Most of the early residents were Czech and German immigrates and settled the area to find a better way of life. Today the population is around 1302 and it still primarily a farming community. The city takes pride in calling themselves the Czech capital of Wisconsin. Each second weekend in June, Hillsboro hosts a festival, Chesky Den, to celebrate their heritage. It is held at the Hillsboro Fireman’s Park. If you want to experience a fun time I recommend a trip over there for an enjoyable experience. You will see happy people having a happy bouncing time. The festival features polka music and dancing, a craft and flea market, carnival rides and lots of great Czech food served up buffet style in the Fireman’s Park pavilions.
Besides the Czechs in the Hillsboro area, there is also an Amish settlement with an approximate 650 members or about 95 households. Many of these Amish farmers operate small to medium sized family dairy farms with anywhere from 10 to 49 cow. Along highway 82 heading into Hillsboro, it’s a common site to see a one horse-powered buggy heading into town at a clip clop rate of 5-10 miles per hour. Another note worthy tourist attractions in the Hillsboro area is the location of a 7-mile bike trail and snowmobile trail. This trail links up to the Elroy Sparta Trail along an abandoned old rail line. It follows the West Branch of the Baraboo River, and crosses several wooden bridges along its scenic |
Listings in Hillsboro, WI |