Area Information
Located in southeast Wisconsin, Watertown is conveniently situated for both its residents and businesses. We're surrounded by rich, productive farmland and connected to major markets by numerous highways. Together these two elements help us maintain the charm of a small community while encouraging progressive commercial activity.
Watertown is served by I-94 plus State Highways 16, 19 and 26.
Watertown was founded by Timothy Johnson in December of 1836. Shortly thereafter a post office and a local hotel were established, marking Watertown as a fast developing community. After Wisconsin achieved statehood in 1848, our town was incorporated as a village the very next year. It would be incorporated again, this time as a city, just 4 years after that in 1853.
Watertown is proud to be the home of America's first kindergarten, which opened its doors in 1856. It was started by Margarethe Meyer Schurz, a native of Hamburg, Germany. The presence of the first kindergarten was proof of the large number of German immigrants who settled in Watertown.
Average high temperatures in Watertown reach 82 degrees Fahrenheit in July, and average lows get down to 7 degrees in January. The monthly precipitation average is just over 2.7 inches. The annual snowfall average is 44.8 inches.
7 public schools and 10 private schools offer educational options to local students. The University of Wisconsin - Whitewater provides higher education from 25 miles away. Alternative options within 50 miles of town include Carroll College, the University of Wisconsin - Madison and 3 technical colleges in Pewaukee and Madison.
Watertown Memorial Hospital serves the area's health care needs.
The Octagon House is a 5-story home constructed in 1854. As the name implies, it boasts an unusual 8-sided shape that made it into one of Watertown's most famous landmarks. Built into the home were rudimentary forms of running water, central air conditioning and central heat - all nearly unheard of luxuries at the time. It was transformed into a museum and opened to the public in 1938, with guided tours available to visitors. The First Kindergarten in America is also located on the museum grounds.
Fishing is a popular activity along the Rock River. Catfish are the primary species here, but you can also catch northern pike, bullheads, walleye, bluegill, carp, white and smallmouth bass. You can also head over to nearby Lac la Belle for even more fishing. Panfish and largemouth bass are particularly popular in these waters.
There are 14 public hunting tracts in the vicinity of Watertown where licensed hunters can stalk deer, turkey, squirrel, pheasant, rabbit and waterfowl.
Are you intrigued yet? Contact us today to learn about even more attractions near Watertown as well as the properties we have available. We'll do everything we can to help you locate your ideal home.