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{{for|the community in Green County|Mineral Point, Green County, Wisconsin}}
{{for|the community in Green County|Mineral Point, Green County, Wisconsin}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=July 2023}}
{{Infobox settlement
{{Infobox settlement
|official_name = Mineral Point, Wisconsin
|official_name = Mineral Point, Wisconsin
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|nickname =
|nickname =
|motto =
|motto =

<!-- Images -->
<!-- Images -->
|image_skyline = Mineral Point High Street 20100829.jpg
|image_skyline = Mineral Point High Street 20100829.jpg
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|image_flag =
|image_flag =
|image_seal =
|image_seal =

<!-- Maps -->
<!-- Maps -->
|image_map = File:Iowa County Wisconsin Incorporated and Unincorporated areas Mineral Point Highlighted.svg
|image_map = File:Iowa County Wisconsin Incorporated and Unincorporated areas Mineral Point Highlighted.svg
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|mapsize1 =
|mapsize1 =
|map_caption1 =
|map_caption1 =

<!-- Location -->
<!-- Location -->
|subdivision_type = [[List of sovereign states|Country]]
|subdivision_type = [[List of sovereign states|Country]]
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|subdivision_type2 = [[List of counties in Wisconsin|County]]
|subdivision_type2 = [[List of counties in Wisconsin|County]]
|subdivision_name2 = [[Iowa County, Wisconsin|Iowa]]
|subdivision_name2 = [[Iowa County, Wisconsin|Iowa]]

<!-- Government -->
<!-- Government -->
|government_footnotes =
|government_footnotes =
|government_type =
|government_type =
|leader_title = [[Mayor]]
|leader_title = [[Mayor]]
|leader_name = Jason Basting
|leader_name = Danny Clark
|leader_title1 =
|leader_title1 =
|leader_name1 =
|leader_name1 =
|established_title = Settled
|established_title = Settled
|established_date = 1827
|established_date = 1827

<!-- Area -->
<!-- Area -->
|unit_pref = Imperial
|unit_pref = Imperial
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|area_land_sq_mi = 3.08
|area_land_sq_mi = 3.08
|area_water_sq_mi = 0.00
|area_water_sq_mi = 0.00

<!-- Population -->
<!-- Population -->
|population_as_of = [[2010 United States Census|2010]]
|population_as_of = [[2020 United States Census|2020]]
|population_est = 2465
|population_est =
|pop_est_as_of = 2019
|pop_est_as_of =
|population_footnotes = <ref name ="wwwcensusgov"/>
|population_footnotes = <ref name ="wwwcensusgov"/>
|population_total = 2487
|population_total = 2581
|population_density_km2 = 309.36
|population_density_km2 =
|population_density_sq_mi = 801.37
|population_density_sq_mi =

<!-- General information -->
<!-- General information -->
|timezone = [[North American Central Time Zone|Central (CST)]]
|timezone = [[North American Central Time Zone|Central (CST)]]
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|website = {{URL|http://www.mineralpoint.net/}}
|website = {{URL|http://www.mineralpoint.net/}}
|footnotes =
|footnotes =
|pop_est_footnotes = <ref name="USCensusEst2019CenPopScriptOnlyDirtyFixDoNotUse"/>
|pop_est_footnotes =
}}
}}
'''Mineral Point''' is a city in [[Iowa County, Wisconsin|Iowa County]], [[Wisconsin]], United States. The city is located within the [[Mineral Point (town), Wisconsin|Town of Mineral Point]]. Mineral Point is part of the [[Madison, Wisconsin|Madison]] [[Madison, Wisconsin metropolitan area|Metropolitan Statistical Area]].
'''Mineral Point''' is a city in [[Iowa County, Wisconsin|Iowa County]], [[Wisconsin]], United States. The population was 2,581 at the [[2020 United States Census|2020 census]]. The city is located within the [[Mineral Point (town), Wisconsin|Town of Mineral Point]]. Mineral Point is part of the [[Madison, Wisconsin|Madison]] [[Madison, Wisconsin metropolitan area|Metropolitan Statistical Area]].

Wisconsin's third oldest city,<ref>[http://dnr.wi.gov/wnrmag/html/travel/1999/apr99.htm "Get to the point"], ''Wisconsin Natural Resources Magazine'', April, 1999.</ref><ref>Randy Curwen, [http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2008-09-07/travel/0809050580_1_wisconsin-river-badger-state-mississippi-river "Southwest Wisconsin: The Badger State's beginnings"], ''Chicago Tribune'', September 7, 2008.</ref><ref>Preserve America, [http://www.preserveamerica.gov/PAcommunity_closeups_mineralpointWI.html "Preserve America Community Close-ups: Mineral Point, Wisconsin"].</ref> Mineral Point was settled in 1827, becoming a [[lead]] and [[zinc]] mining center during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Today the city's historical character has made it a regional tourist destination. The population was 2,487 at the [[2010 United States Census|2010 census]].


Mineral Point was settled in 1827, becoming a [[lead]] and [[zinc]] mining center, and commercial town in the 19th and early 20th centuries. It initially drew a considerable number of [[Cornish people|Cornish]]-immigrant miners and their families. In the mid-20th century it attracted artists and an [[artist's colony]] and its tourism industry began to grow. The city's well-preserved historical character within the varied natural topography of the [[driftless area]] has made it a regional tourist destination. Mineral Point is sometimes called Wisconsin's third oldest city,<ref>[http://dnr.wi.gov/wnrmag/html/travel/1999/apr99.htm "Get to the point"], ''Wisconsin Natural Resources Magazine'', April, 1999.</ref><ref>Randy Curwen, [https://www.chicagotribune.com/2008/09/07/southwest-wisconsin-the-badger-states-beginnings/ "Southwest Wisconsin: The Badger State's beginnings"], ''Chicago Tribune'', September 7, 2008.</ref><ref>Preserve America, [http://www.preserveamerica.gov/PAcommunity_closeups_mineralpointWI.html "Preserve America Community Close-ups: Mineral Point, Wisconsin"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150715135022/http://www.preserveamerica.gov/PAcommunity_closeups_mineralpointWI.html |date=July 15, 2015 }}.</ref> but the [[Wisconsin Historical Society]] notes several older colonial settlements.<ref>{{cite web |title=Wisconsin (oldest cities and towns) |url=https://www.wisconsinhistory.org/Records/Article/CS2170 |publisher=Wisconsin Historical Society |access-date=21 July 2022 |language=en |date=3 August 2012}}</ref>
[[File:Mineral Point City Hall.jpg|thumb|right|Mineral Point City Hall]]
== History ==
== History ==
The first European settlement at Mineral Point began in 1827. One of the first settlers to the area was [[Henry Dodge]] and his family who settled a few miles away from Mineral Point.<ref>[[#refFiedler1973|Fideler 1973]], p. 25.</ref> During the following year, large quantities of [[galena]], or [[lead]] ore, were discovered around the settlement in shallow deposits. Lead had many uses at the time, and settlers began to flock to the region hoping to make a living by extracting the easily accessible mineral. Lead deposits extended throughout an area that also included [[Dubuque, Iowa]] and [[Galena, Illinois]], but Mineral Point became the center of lead mining operations within the bounds of present-day Wisconsin (then part of [[Michigan Territory]]). By 1829, the region's growing population led to the creation of [[Iowa County, Wisconsin|Iowa County]], which included all of the lead mining lands within the borders of Michigan Territory at the time. Mineral Point was established as the [[county seat]] later that year. During the [[Black Hawk War]] of 1832, residents of Mineral Point built [[Fort Jackson (Wisconsin)|Fort Jackson]] to protect the town from a possible attack.<ref>[[#refFiedler1973|Fiedler 1973]], p.36.</ref> The young settlement's importance was further confirmed in 1834 when it was selected as the site of one of two federal land offices responsible for distributing [[Public domain (land)|public land]] to settlers within the area that now encompasses Wisconsin.
The first European settlement at Mineral Point began in 1827. One of the first settlers to the area was [[Henry Dodge]] and his family who settled a few miles away from Mineral Point.<ref>[[#refFiedler1973|Fideler 1973]], p. 25.</ref> During the following year, large quantities of [[galena]], or [[lead]] ore, were discovered around the settlement in shallow deposits. Lead had many uses at the time, and settlers began to flock to the region hoping to make a living by extracting the easily accessible mineral. Lead deposits extended throughout an area that also included [[Dubuque, Iowa]] and [[Galena, Illinois]], but Mineral Point became the center of lead mining operations within the bounds of present-day Wisconsin (then part of [[Michigan Territory]]). By 1829, the region's growing population led to the creation of [[Iowa County, Wisconsin|Iowa County]], which included all of the lead mining lands within the territory. Mineral Point was established as the [[county seat]] later that year. During the [[Black Hawk War]] of 1832, residents of Mineral Point built [[Fort Jackson (Wisconsin)|Fort Jackson]] to protect the town from a possible attack.<ref>[[#refFiedler1973|Fiedler 1973]], p.36.</ref> The young settlement's importance was further confirmed in 1834 when it was selected as the site of one of two federal land offices responsible for distributing [[Public domain (land)|public land]] to settlers within the area that now encompasses Wisconsin.


When [[Wisconsin Territory]] was created in 1836, Mineral Point hosted the [[inauguration]] of the first territorial governor, [[Henry Dodge]], and the territorial secretary, [[John S. Horner]]. During the ceremony, a design by Horner was officially recognized as the Great Seal of Wisconsin Territory. It displayed an arm holding a [[pickaxe]] over a pile of lead ore, demonstrating the importance of Mineral Point's early mining economy to the new territory. A census conducted in the months after the inauguration showed that Iowa County had 5,234 inhabitants, making it the most populous county in the Wisconsin Territory east of the Mississippi River.<ref>[[#refThwaites1895|Thwaites 1895]], p.249.</ref>
When [[Wisconsin Territory]] was created in 1836, Mineral Point hosted the [[inauguration]] of the first territorial governor, [[Henry Dodge]], and the territorial secretary, [[John S. Horner]]. During the ceremony, a design by Horner was officially recognized as the Great Seal of Wisconsin Territory. It displayed an arm holding a [[pickaxe]] over a pile of lead ore, demonstrating the importance of Mineral Point's early mining economy to the new territory. A census conducted in the months after the inauguration showed that Iowa County had 5,234 inhabitants, making it the most populous county in the Wisconsin Territory east of the Mississippi River.<ref>[[#refThwaites1895|Thwaites 1895]], p.249.</ref>
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Mineral Point remained an important lead mining center during the 1840s. Although the most easily accessible lead deposits on the surface were being exhausted by this time, new immigrants began to arrive with more refined techniques for extracting ore. The largest group came from [[Cornwall]], which had been a mining center for centuries. Experienced [[Cornish people|Cornish]] miners were attracted to the lead mining opportunities in Mineral Point, and by 1845 roughly half of the town's population had [[Cornish American|Cornish ancestry]].<ref>[[#refNesbit1989|Nesbit 1989]], p.114.</ref> The original dwellings of some of these early [[Cornish American|Cornish]] immigrants have been restored at the [[Pendarvis (Mineral Point, Wisconsin)|Pendarvis Historic Site]] in Mineral Point. Lead continued to be produced in abundant quantities by the [[Cornish American|Cornish]] miners, and in 1847, the ''Mineral Point Tribune'' reported that the town's furnaces were producing 43,800 pounds (19,900&nbsp;kg) of lead each day.<ref>[[#refFiedler1973|Fiedler 1973]], p.84.</ref>
Mineral Point remained an important lead mining center during the 1840s. Although the most easily accessible lead deposits on the surface were being exhausted by this time, new immigrants began to arrive with more refined techniques for extracting ore. The largest group came from [[Cornwall]], which had been a mining center for centuries. Experienced [[Cornish people|Cornish]] miners were attracted to the lead mining opportunities in Mineral Point, and by 1845 roughly half of the town's population had [[Cornish American|Cornish ancestry]].<ref>[[#refNesbit1989|Nesbit 1989]], p.114.</ref> The original dwellings of some of these early [[Cornish American|Cornish]] immigrants have been restored at the [[Pendarvis (Mineral Point, Wisconsin)|Pendarvis Historic Site]] in Mineral Point. Lead continued to be produced in abundant quantities by the [[Cornish American|Cornish]] miners, and in 1847, the ''Mineral Point Tribune'' reported that the town's furnaces were producing 43,800 pounds (19,900&nbsp;kg) of lead each day.<ref>[[#refFiedler1973|Fiedler 1973]], p.84.</ref>


Mining activity in Mineral Point began to decline in the following years. In 1848, the same year that Wisconsin achieved statehood, [[gold]] was discovered in [[California]]. Many experienced miners left Mineral Point to look for gold, and in all, the town lost 700 people during the [[California Gold Rush]].<ref>[[#refFiedler1973|Fiedler 1973]], p.95.</ref> While the lead industry in Mineral Point continued into the 1860s, the town never recovered its former importance. A further blow was struck in 1861 when the county seat of Iowa County was relocated to nearby [[Dodgeville, Wisconsin]], where it remains today. Afterwards there was an intense rivalry between the two cities, during which{{When|date=June 2010}} Mineral Point fired a cannon towards Dodgeville's direction.{{Citation needed|date=June 2010}}
Mining activity in Mineral Point began to decline in the following years. In 1848, the same year that Wisconsin achieved statehood, [[gold]] was discovered in [[California]]. Many experienced miners left Mineral Point to look for gold, and in all, the town lost 700 people during the [[California Gold Rush]].<ref>[[#refFiedler1973|Fiedler 1973]], p.95.</ref> While the lead industry in Mineral Point continued into the 1860s, the town never recovered its former importance.{{citation needed|date=January 2024}}

In November 1858, the residents of Iowa County voted to move the county seat to nearby [[Dodgeville, Wisconsin|Dodgeville]], by a majority of 350. Mineral Point contested this election, accusing some residents of Dodgeville of corruption, and asserting that the law enabling the election was not sufficiently publicised.<ref name=":0">{{cite book |url=https://archive.org/details/cu31924028871511/ |title=History of Iowa County, Wisconsin : containing an account of its settlement, growth, development and resources ; biographical sketches |date=1881 |publisher=Western Historical Company |location=Chicago |page=518 |access-date=9 July 2022}}</ref> The case was elevated to the [[Wisconsin Supreme Court]], and Judge [[Byron Paine]] delivered the proceeding opinion in favour of Mineral Point on July 11, 1859, following which the residents of Mineral Point fired a cannon towards Dodgeville in celebration.<ref>{{Cite news |date=12 July 1859 |title=County seat question settled! Mineral Point ahead! |url=https://chroniclingamerica.loc.gov/lccn/sn86086769/1859-07-12/ed-1/seq-3/ |access-date=24 January 2024 |work=Mineral Point Weekly Tribune}}</ref> An intense rivalry was harboured between the two towns, and a renewed election took place on April 2, 1861, during which a majority again voted to move the county seat to Dodgeville, where it remains today.<ref name=":0" />


As lead mining declined in Mineral Point, [[zinc]] mining and [[smelting]] became important new industries. Zinc ore was discovered with increasing frequency near the bottoms of old lead mines. The Mineral Point Zinc Company was founded in 1882, and by 1891 it was operating the largest [[zinc oxide]] works in the United States at Mineral Point.<ref>[[#refFiedler1973|Fiedler 1973]], p.147.</ref> Zinc mining and processing continued on a large scale until the 1920s.
As lead mining declined in Mineral Point, [[zinc]] mining and [[smelting]] became important new industries. Zinc ore was discovered with increasing frequency near the bottoms of old lead mines. The Mineral Point Zinc Company was founded in 1882, and by 1891 it was operating the largest [[zinc oxide]] works in the United States at Mineral Point.<ref>[[#refFiedler1973|Fiedler 1973]], p.147.</ref> Zinc mining and processing continued on a large scale until the 1920s.
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In 1897 [[Robert M. La Follette]] gave his "The danger threatening representative government" speech in Mineral Point.<ref>[http://www.wisconsinhistory.org/Content.aspx?dsNav=N:4294963828-4294963805&dsRecordDetails=R:CS3415p Speeches of Robert M. La Follette]</ref>
In 1897 [[Robert M. La Follette]] gave his "The danger threatening representative government" speech in Mineral Point.<ref>[http://www.wisconsinhistory.org/Content.aspx?dsNav=N:4294963828-4294963805&dsRecordDetails=R:CS3415p Speeches of Robert M. La Follette]</ref>


In the 1930s, a local resident, Robert Neal, together with his partner, Edgar Hellum, aimed to preserve some of the history of the Cornish structures. Over the next decades, they bought and restored buildings, and turned one into a popular Cornish restaurant attracting tourists. They had both studied art, and they also attracted other artists to move to the area. These buildings are now the [[Pendarvis (Mineral Point, Wisconsin)|Pendarvis]] Historic Site.<ref>{{Cite news |last=O'Neill |first=Helen |date=August 11, 2014 |title=Travel: Mineral Point |language=en |work=Madison.com |agency=Associated Press |url=https://madison.com/ap/travel/travel-mineral-point/article_7861b25b-d5dd-54f6-8c72-b073bddce8a2.html |access-date=2021-02-15}}</ref>
In the 1930s, a local resident, Robert Neal, together with his partner, Edgar Hellum, aimed to preserve some of the history of the Cornish miners' and settlers' stone structures. Over the next decades, they bought and restored buildings, and turned one into a popular Cornish restaurant attracting tourists. They had both studied art, and they also attracted other artists to move to the area. These buildings are now the [[Pendarvis (Mineral Point, Wisconsin)|Pendarvis]] Historic Site.<ref>{{Cite news |last=O'Neill |first=Helen |date=August 11, 2014 |title=Travel: Mineral Point |language=en |work=Madison.com |agency=Associated Press |url=https://madison.com/ap/travel/travel-mineral-point/article_7861b25b-d5dd-54f6-8c72-b073bddce8a2.html |access-date=2021-02-15}}</ref>


==Geography==
==Geography==
According to the [[United States Census Bureau]], the city has a total area of {{convert|2.91|sqmi|sqkm|2}}, all of it land.<ref name="Gazetteer files">{{cite web|title=US Gazetteer files 2010|url=https://www.census.gov/geo/www/gazetteer/files/Gaz_places_national.txt|publisher=[[United States Census Bureau]]|access-date=2012-11-18|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://www.webcitation.org/64vfLAeJ2?url=http://www.census.gov/geo/www/gazetteer/files/Gaz_places_national.txt|archive-date=2012-01-24}}</ref>
According to the [[United States Census Bureau]], the city has a total area of {{convert|3.08|sqmi|sqkm|2}}, all of it land.<ref name="gaz2020">{{cite web|title=2020 Gazetteer Files |url=https://www.census.gov/geographies/reference-files/time-series/geo/gazetteer-files.2020.html |website=census.gov |publisher=U.S. Census Bureau |access-date=21 July 2022}}</ref>
Mineral Point lies within the [[Driftless Area]].
Mineral Point lies within the [[Driftless Area]].

{{wide image|Mineral Point, Wisconsin.jpg|400px|[[U.S. Route 151 in Wisconsin|US-151]] and [[Wisconsin Highway 39|Wis-39]] junction by town|100%|center
|alt=Mineral Point, Wisconsin}}


==Demographics==
==Demographics==
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|2000= 2617
|2000= 2617
|2010= 2487
|2010= 2487
|2020= 2581
|estyear=2019
|estimate=2465
|estref=<ref name="USCensusEst2019CenPopScriptOnlyDirtyFixDoNotUse">{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/data/tables.2019.html|date=May 24, 2020|title=Population and Housing Unit Estimates|publisher=United States Census Bureau|access-date=May 27, 2020}}</ref>
|footnote=U.S. Decennial Census<ref name="DecennialCensus">{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/decennial-census.html|title=Census of Population and Housing|publisher=Census.gov|access-date=June 4, 2015}}</ref>
|footnote=U.S. Decennial Census<ref name="DecennialCensus">{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/decennial-census.html|title=Census of Population and Housing|publisher=Census.gov|access-date=June 4, 2015}}</ref>
}}
}}

⚫
===2020 census===
As of the [[2020 United States census|census of 2020]],<ref name="2020-census-5553100">{{cite web|title=2020 Decennial Census: Mineral Point city, Wisconsin |url=https://data.census.gov/cedsci/table?g=1600000US5553100&y=2020&d=DEC%20Redistricting%20Data%20%28PL%2094-171%29 |website=data.census.gov |publisher=U.S. Census Bureau |access-date=21 July 2022}}</ref> the population was 2,581. The [[population density]] was {{convert|839.1|PD/sqmi|PD/km2|1}}. There were 1,322 housing units at an average density of {{convert|429.8|/sqmi|/km2|1}}. The racial makeup of the city was 95.4% [[White (U.S. Census)|White]], 0.5% [[Asian (U.S. Census)|Asian]], 0.5% [[Black (U.S. Census)|Black]] or [[African American (U.S. Census)|African American]], 0.5% from [[Race and ethnicity in the United States census|other races]], and 3.1% from two or more races. Ethnically, the population was 1.8% [[Hispanic (U.S. Census)|Hispanic]] or [[Latino (U.S. Census)|Latino]] of any race.


===2010 census===
===2010 census===
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The median age in the city was 43.7 years. 21.3% of residents were under the age of 18; 6.8% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 23.5% were from 25 to 44; 30.3% were from 45 to 64; and 18.2% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 48.0% male and 52.0% female.
The median age in the city was 43.7 years. 21.3% of residents were under the age of 18; 6.8% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 23.5% were from 25 to 44; 30.3% were from 45 to 64; and 18.2% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 48.0% male and 52.0% female.

⚫
===2000 census===
As of the [[census]]<ref name="GR2">{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov|publisher=[[United States Census Bureau]]|access-date=2008-01-31|title=U.S. Census website}}</ref> of 2000, there were 2,617 people, 1,092 households, and 693 families residing in the city. The [[population density]] was 868.1 people per square mile (335.7/km<sup>2</sup>). There were 1,192 housing units at an average density of 395.4 per square mile (152.9/km<sup>2</sup>). The racial makeup of the city was 99.01% [[White (U.S. Census)|White]], 0.19% [[African American (U.S. Census)|Black]] or [[Race (United States Census)|African American]], 0.04% [[Native American (U.S. Census)|Native American]], 0.23% [[Asian (U.S. Census)|Asian]], 0.15% from [[Race (United States Census)|other races]], and 0.38% from two or more races. [[Race and ethnicity in the United States Census|Hispanic]] or [[Race and ethnicity in the United States Census|Latino]] of any race were 0.42% of the population.

There were 1,092 households, of which 29.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 51.0% were [[Marriage|married couples]] living together, 8.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 36.5% were non-families. 30.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.33, and the average family size was 2.91.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 24.5% under the age of 18, 7.7% from 18 to 24, 28.8% from 25 to 44, 21.2% from 45 to 64, and 17.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 90.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 86.2 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $43,182, and the median income for a family was $52,137. Males had a median income of $31,750 versus $23,396 for females. The [[per capita income]] for the city was $21,097. About 3.8% of families and 4.9% of the population were below the [[poverty line]], including 1.5% of those under age 18 and 15.6% of those age 65 or over.


==Media==
==Media==
* ''The Democrat Tribune'', a weekly community newspaper founded in 1849.<ref>http://mineralpoint.com/business-directory/name/democrat-tribune/</ref>
* ''The Democrat Tribune'', a weekly community newspaper founded in 1849.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://mineralpoint.com/business-directory/name/democrat-tribune/ |title=Democrat Tribune {{!}} Mineral Point Business Directory {{!}} Mineral Point, WI |website=mineralpoint.com |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160325115936/http://mineralpoint.com/business-directory/name/democrat-tribune |archive-date=2016-03-25}}</ref>


==Transportation==
==Transportation==
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Much of the city is a historical district, including blocks of stone cottages and businesses crafted by the [[Cornish American|Cornish settlers]] in the 1800s. A more recent building is the City Hall, built in 1914, which includes the library and the Opera House. The Opera House underwent a $2 million renovation in 2010.
Much of the city is a historical district, including blocks of stone cottages and businesses crafted by the [[Cornish American|Cornish settlers]] in the 1800s. A more recent building is the City Hall, built in 1914, which includes the library and the Opera House. The Opera House underwent a $2 million renovation in 2010.


Pendarvis, a state historical site, is a historically accurate preservation of some of the original cottages. It is open for tours in the summer months. Shake Rag Alley contains seven historic structures; an outdoor summer theatre, Alley Stage; and a community-owned center for the arts, which sponsors a children's art program and adult classes.
Pendarvis, a state historical site, is a historically accurate preservation of some of the original cottages. It is open for tours in the summer months. Shake Rag Alley contains seven historic structures; an outdoor summer theatre, Alley Stage; and a community-owned center for the arts, which sponsors a children's art program and adult classes. Down the street is Brewery Pottery, an art gallery/studio/museum, located in one of the oldest standing breweries in Wisconsin. Brewery Pottery is open to the public daily, all year round.


* Brewery Pottery, built in 1850. Former home of Mineral Spring Brewing Company
* Cothern House, home of Montgomery Cothern
* Cothern House, home of Montgomery Cothern
* Fort Defiance, was located along Highway 23 near the present Iowa and Lafayette County border in 1832 during the Black Hawk War. A memorial marker commemorates the location.
* Fort Defiance, was located along Highway 23 near the present Iowa and Lafayette County border in 1832 during the Black Hawk War. A memorial marker commemorates the location.
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* Mineral Point Opera House
* Mineral Point Opera House
* Shake Rag Alley Center for the Arts
* Shake Rag Alley Center for the Arts
* Stronghold, home of Moses M. Strong, first President of the Wisconsin Bar Association
* Stronghold, home of Moses M. Strong, first president of the Wisconsin Bar Association
* Trinity Episcopal Church built in 1845
* Trinity Episcopal Church built in 1845


==Notable people==
==Notable people==
{{div col}}
{{div col}}
* [[John Catlin (politician)|John Catlin]], Acting Governor of the Wisconsin Territory
* [[John Catlin (politician)|John Catlin]], Acting governor of the Wisconsin Territory
* [[Samuel Crawford (jurist)|Samuel Crawford]], Wisconsin Supreme Court
* [[Samuel Crawford (jurist)|Samuel Crawford]], Wisconsin Supreme Court
* [[Amasa Cobb]], U.S. Representative
* [[Amasa Cobb]], U.S. representative
* [[Montgomery Morrison Cothren]], Wisconsin legislator and jurist
* [[Montgomery Morrison Cothren]], Wisconsin legislator and jurist
* [[George G. Cox]], Wisconsin legislator
* [[George G. Cox]], Wisconsin legislator
Line 187: Line 179:
* [[William D. Dyke|Bill Dyke]], former U.S. vice presidential candidate
* [[William D. Dyke|Bill Dyke]], former U.S. vice presidential candidate
* [[Jack Enzenroth]], [[MLB]] player
* [[Jack Enzenroth]], [[MLB]] player
* [[Ansley Gray]], Wisconsin State Representative
* [[Ansley Gray]], Wisconsin state representative
* [[Charles W. Hutchison]], Wisconsin legislator
* [[Charles W. Hutchison]], Wisconsin legislator
* [[David William Hutchison]], [[U.S. Air Force]] Major General
* [[David William Hutchison]], [[U.S. Air Force]] major general
* [[Mortimer M. Jackson]], jurist and diplomat
* [[Mortimer M. Jackson]], jurist and diplomat
* [[William A. Jones (Assemblyman)|William A. Jones]], Wisconsin State Representative
* [[William A. Jones (Assemblyman)|William A. Jones]], Wisconsin state representative
⚫
* [[Francis Little (American politician)|Francis Little]], Wisconsin state senator
* [[Rick Lawinger (American amateur wrestler)|Rick Lawinger]], First NCAA wrestling champion (1974) in University of Wisconsin-Madison history
⚫
* [[Allen Ludden]], host of the [[game show]] ''[[Password (American game show)|Password]]''
⚫
* [[Francis Little (American politician)|Francis Little]], Wisconsin State Senator
⚫
* [[James G. Monahan]], U.S. representative
⚫
* [[Allen Ludden]], host of the [[game show]] ''[[Password (American game show)|Password]]'' was born in Mineral Point.
⚫
* [[Abner Nichols]], Wisconsin state representative
⚫
* [[James G. Monahan]], U.S. Representative
⚫
* [[Abner Nichols]], Wisconsin State Representative
* [[Ernie Ovitz]], baseball player
* [[Ernie Ovitz]], baseball player
* [[Jabez Pierce]], Wisconsin legislator
* [[William Thomas Rawleigh]], [[Illinois]] State Representative
* [[William Thomas Rawleigh]], [[Illinois]] state representative
* [[Theodore Rodolf]], Wisconsin State Representative
* [[Theodore Rodolf]], Wisconsin state representative
* [[William Rudolph Smith]], [[Pennsylvania]] State Representative and Senator, Attorney General of [[Wisconsin]]
* [[William Rudolph Smith]], [[Pennsylvania]] state representative and senator, Attorney General of [[Wisconsin]]
* [[Calvert Spensley]], Wisconsin State Representative
* [[Calvert Spensley]], Wisconsin state representative
* [[Moses M. Strong]], [[Wisconsin]] State Assembly Speaker of the House
* [[Moses M. Strong]], [[Wisconsin]] State Assembly Speaker of the House
* [[John B. Terry]], merchant, soldier, pioneer, and Wisconsin territorial legislator
* [[John B. Terry]], merchant, soldier, pioneer, and Wisconsin territorial legislator
* [[Cadwallader C. Washburn]], U.S. Representative, founder of [[General Mills]]
* [[Cadwallader C. Washburn]], U.S. representative, founder of [[General Mills]]
* [[Alexander Wilson (Wisconsin politician)|Alexander Wilson]], Attorney General of Wisconsin
* [[Alexander Wilson (Wisconsin politician)|Alexander Wilson]], Attorney General of Wisconsin
* [[Randy Cushman (Best athlete and hunter in all the land)]], Autobody Master
{{div col end}}
{{div col end}}


Latest revision as of 14:19, 2 November 2024

For the community in Green County, see Mineral Point, Green County, Wisconsin.

Mineral Point, Wisconsin
City
High Street, Mineral Point
High Street, Mineral Point
Location of Mineral Point in Iowa County, Wisconsin.
Location of Mineral Point in Iowa County, Wisconsin.
Coordinates: 42°51′37″N 90°10′59″W / 42.86028°N 90.18306°W / 42.86028; -90.18306
Country United States
State Wisconsin
CountyIowa
Settled1827
Government
 • MayorDanny Clark
Area
[1]
 • Total
3.08 sq mi (7.97 km2)
 • Land3.08 sq mi (7.97 km2)
 • Water0.00 sq mi (0.00 km2)
Population
 (2020)[2]
 • Total
2,581
Time zoneUTC-6 (Central (CST))
 • Summer (DST)UTC-5 (CDT)
Area code608
FIPS code55-53100
Websitewww.mineralpoint.net

Mineral Point is a city in Iowa County, Wisconsin, United States. The population was 2,581 at the 2020 census. The city is located within the Town of Mineral Point. Mineral Point is part of the Madison Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Mineral Point was settled in 1827, becoming a lead and zinc mining center, and commercial town in the 19th and early 20th centuries. It initially drew a considerable number of Cornish-immigrant miners and their families. In the mid-20th century it attracted artists and an artist's colony and its tourism industry began to grow. The city's well-preserved historical character within the varied natural topography of the driftless area has made it a regional tourist destination. Mineral Point is sometimes called Wisconsin's third oldest city,[3][4][5] but the Wisconsin Historical Society notes several older colonial settlements.[6]

Mineral Point City Hall

History

[edit]

The first European settlement at Mineral Point began in 1827. One of the first settlers to the area was Henry Dodge and his family who settled a few miles away from Mineral Point.[7] During the following year, large quantities of galena, or lead ore, were discovered around the settlement in shallow deposits. Lead had many uses at the time, and settlers began to flock to the region hoping to make a living by extracting the easily accessible mineral. Lead deposits extended throughout an area that also included Dubuque, Iowa and Galena, Illinois, but Mineral Point became the center of lead mining operations within the bounds of present-day Wisconsin (then part of Michigan Territory). By 1829, the region's growing population led to the creation of Iowa County, which included all of the lead mining lands within the territory. Mineral Point was established as the county seat later that year. During the Black Hawk War of 1832, residents of Mineral Point built Fort Jackson to protect the town from a possible attack.[8] The young settlement's importance was further confirmed in 1834 when it was selected as the site of one of two federal land offices responsible for distributing public land to settlers within the area that now encompasses Wisconsin.

When Wisconsin Territory was created in 1836, Mineral Point hosted the inauguration of the first territorial governor, Henry Dodge, and the territorial secretary, John S. Horner. During the ceremony, a design by Horner was officially recognized as the Great Seal of Wisconsin Territory. It displayed an arm holding a pickaxe over a pile of lead ore, demonstrating the importance of Mineral Point's early mining economy to the new territory. A census conducted in the months after the inauguration showed that Iowa County had 5,234 inhabitants, making it the most populous county in the Wisconsin Territory east of the Mississippi River.[9]

Pendarvis House (left) and Trelawny House (right) at the Pendarvis Historic Site

Mineral Point remained an important lead mining center during the 1840s. Although the most easily accessible lead deposits on the surface were being exhausted by this time, new immigrants began to arrive with more refined techniques for extracting ore. The largest group came from Cornwall, which had been a mining center for centuries. Experienced Cornish miners were attracted to the lead mining opportunities in Mineral Point, and by 1845 roughly half of the town's population had Cornish ancestry.[10] The original dwellings of some of these early Cornish immigrants have been restored at the Pendarvis Historic Site in Mineral Point. Lead continued to be produced in abundant quantities by the Cornish miners, and in 1847, the Mineral Point Tribune reported that the town's furnaces were producing 43,800 pounds (19,900 kg) of lead each day.[11]

Mining activity in Mineral Point began to decline in the following years. In 1848, the same year that Wisconsin achieved statehood, gold was discovered in California. Many experienced miners left Mineral Point to look for gold, and in all, the town lost 700 people during the California Gold Rush.[12] While the lead industry in Mineral Point continued into the 1860s, the town never recovered its former importance.[citation needed]

In November 1858, the residents of Iowa County voted to move the county seat to nearby Dodgeville, by a majority of 350. Mineral Point contested this election, accusing some residents of Dodgeville of corruption, and asserting that the law enabling the election was not sufficiently publicised.[13] The case was elevated to the Wisconsin Supreme Court, and Judge Byron Paine delivered the proceeding opinion in favour of Mineral Point on July 11, 1859, following which the residents of Mineral Point fired a cannon towards Dodgeville in celebration.[14] An intense rivalry was harboured between the two towns, and a renewed election took place on April 2, 1861, during which a majority again voted to move the county seat to Dodgeville, where it remains today.[13]

As lead mining declined in Mineral Point, zinc mining and smelting became important new industries. Zinc ore was discovered with increasing frequency near the bottoms of old lead mines. The Mineral Point Zinc Company was founded in 1882, and by 1891 it was operating the largest zinc oxide works in the United States at Mineral Point.[15] Zinc mining and processing continued on a large scale until the 1920s.

In 1897 Robert M. La Follette gave his "The danger threatening representative government" speech in Mineral Point.[16]

In the 1930s, a local resident, Robert Neal, together with his partner, Edgar Hellum, aimed to preserve some of the history of the Cornish miners' and settlers' stone structures. Over the next decades, they bought and restored buildings, and turned one into a popular Cornish restaurant attracting tourists. They had both studied art, and they also attracted other artists to move to the area. These buildings are now the Pendarvis Historic Site.[17]

Geography

[edit]

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 3.08 square miles (7.98 km2), all of it land.[18]

Mineral Point lies within the Driftless Area.

Mineral Point, Wisconsin
US-151 and Wis-39 junction by town

Demographics

[edit]
Historical population
CensusPop.Note%±
18602,389—
18703,27537.1%
18802,915−11.0%
18902,694−7.6%
19002,99111.0%
19102,925−2.2%
19202,569−12.2%
19302,274−11.5%
19402,2750.0%
19502,2840.4%
19602,3854.4%
19702,305−3.4%
19802,259−2.0%
19902,4287.5%
20002,6177.8%
20102,487−5.0%
20202,5813.8%
U.S. Decennial Census[19]

2020 census

[edit]

As of the census of 2020,[20] the population was 2,581. The population density was 839.1 inhabitants per square mile (324.0/km2). There were 1,322 housing units at an average density of 429.8 per square mile (165.9/km2). The racial makeup of the city was 95.4% White, 0.5% Asian, 0.5% Black or African American, 0.5% from other races, and 3.1% from two or more races. Ethnically, the population was 1.8% Hispanic or Latino of any race.

2010 census

[edit]

As of the census[2] of 2010, there were 2,487 people, 1,147 households, and 648 families residing in the city. The population density was 854.6 inhabitants per square mile (330.0/km2). There were 1,278 housing units at an average density of 439.2 per square mile (169.6/km2). The racial makeup of the city was 97.9% White, 0.6% African American, 0.1% Native American, 0.8% Asian, 0.1% from other races, and 0.5% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.7% of the population.

There were 1,147 households, of which 26.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 44.6% were married couples living together, 8.1% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.7% had a male householder with no wife present, and 43.5% were non-families. 37.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.14 and the average family size was 2.83.

The median age in the city was 43.7 years. 21.3% of residents were under the age of 18; 6.8% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 23.5% were from 25 to 44; 30.3% were from 45 to 64; and 18.2% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 48.0% male and 52.0% female.

Media

[edit]
  • The Democrat Tribune, a weekly community newspaper founded in 1849.[21]

Transportation

[edit]

Cuisine

[edit]
Cornish flags flying from a café on Commerce Street.

Mineral Point restaurants are known for serving Cornish food, such as pasties and figgyhobbin.[22]

Recreation

[edit]

The city is home to an endpoint of the Cheese Country Trail.

Sister city

[edit]

Historical buildings

[edit]
First Methodist Church.

Much of the city is a historical district, including blocks of stone cottages and businesses crafted by the Cornish settlers in the 1800s. A more recent building is the City Hall, built in 1914, which includes the library and the Opera House. The Opera House underwent a $2 million renovation in 2010.

Pendarvis, a state historical site, is a historically accurate preservation of some of the original cottages. It is open for tours in the summer months. Shake Rag Alley contains seven historic structures; an outdoor summer theatre, Alley Stage; and a community-owned center for the arts, which sponsors a children's art program and adult classes. Down the street is Brewery Pottery, an art gallery/studio/museum, located in one of the oldest standing breweries in Wisconsin. Brewery Pottery is open to the public daily, all year round.

  • Brewery Pottery, built in 1850. Former home of Mineral Spring Brewing Company
  • Cothern House, home of Montgomery Cothern
  • Fort Defiance, was located along Highway 23 near the present Iowa and Lafayette County border in 1832 during the Black Hawk War. A memorial marker commemorates the location.
  • Fort Jackson
  • Jerusalem Springs was the first location of religious services in Mineral Point in the 1820s
  • Walker House
  • Orchard Lawn - home of the Mineral Point Historical Society
  • Mineral Point and Northern Railroad Depot (later the Milwaukee Road Depot)
  • Mineral Point Opera House
  • Shake Rag Alley Center for the Arts
  • Stronghold, home of Moses M. Strong, first president of the Wisconsin Bar Association
  • Trinity Episcopal Church built in 1845

Notable people

[edit]

Notes

[edit]
  1. ^ "2019 U.S. Gazetteer Files". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved August 7, 2020.
  2. ^ a b "U.S. Census website". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved November 18, 2012.
  3. ^ "Get to the point", Wisconsin Natural Resources Magazine, April, 1999.
  4. ^ Randy Curwen, "Southwest Wisconsin: The Badger State's beginnings", Chicago Tribune, September 7, 2008.
  5. ^ Preserve America, "Preserve America Community Close-ups: Mineral Point, Wisconsin" Archived July 15, 2015, at the Wayback Machine.
  6. ^ "Wisconsin (oldest cities and towns)". Wisconsin Historical Society. August 3, 2012. Retrieved July 21, 2022.
  7. ^ Fideler 1973, p. 25.
  8. ^ Fiedler 1973, p.36.
  9. ^ Thwaites 1895, p.249.
  10. ^ Nesbit 1989, p.114.
  11. ^ Fiedler 1973, p.84.
  12. ^ Fiedler 1973, p.95.
  13. ^ a b History of Iowa County, Wisconsin : containing an account of its settlement, growth, development and resources ; biographical sketches. Chicago: Western Historical Company. 1881. p. 518. Retrieved July 9, 2022.
  14. ^ "County seat question settled! Mineral Point ahead!". Mineral Point Weekly Tribune. July 12, 1859. Retrieved January 24, 2024.
  15. ^ Fiedler 1973, p.147.
  16. ^ Speeches of Robert M. La Follette
  17. ^ O'Neill, Helen (August 11, 2014). "Travel: Mineral Point". Madison.com. Associated Press. Retrieved February 15, 2021.
  18. ^ "2020 Gazetteer Files". census.gov. U.S. Census Bureau. Retrieved July 21, 2022.
  19. ^ "Census of Population and Housing". Census.gov. Retrieved June 4, 2015.
  20. ^ "2020 Decennial Census: Mineral Point city, Wisconsin". data.census.gov. U.S. Census Bureau. Retrieved July 21, 2022.
  21. ^ "Democrat Tribune | Mineral Point Business Directory | Mineral Point, WI". mineralpoint.com. Archived from the original on March 25, 2016.
  22. ^ "Pendarvis - Shops & Restaurants" Archived 2012-10-25 at the Wayback Machine

References

[edit]
[edit]
Wikisource has the text of the 1879 American Cyclopædia article Mineral Point.
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/enwiki/w/index.php?title=Mineral_Point,_Wisconsin&oldid=1254965634"