Few People Know Wisconsin Was Home To The First Highway Signs In America

It’s one of those things that’s easy to take for granted – those numbered signs that mark state highways. But there was a time when people found their way, looking for landmarks like lakes and trees. It all changed in 1917, when Wisconsin did something that was simple, but also a little monumental. Read on to learn more about this almost forgotten bit of Wisconsin history.

In the early days of automobile travel, navigating the Wisconsin's vasts forests and farmlands was an adventure. With limited roads and even fewer signposts, travelers relied on natural landmarks and old trails to find their way.

However, in 1917, the Wisconsin Highway Commission engineers proposed a revolutionary solution: a statewide system of identifying highways by number.

This groundbreaking initiative would not only transform navigation within the state but would also set a precedent adopted by states across the nation and even in other countries.

With the authorization of the Legislature, State Trunk Highway 19 (later known as U.S. 16) became the inaugural route to be marked and signed with numerals. This marked the beginning of a new era in transportation in Wisconsin and beyond.

The signs are important today, but in the days before GPS, they were especially critical. If you had a map and an eye out for the signs, you could find your way to your destination – or at least find your way somewhere!

Nearly 70 years ago, the state erected a marker commemorating Wisconsin’s highway state, You can find it in Jefferson County, in Ixonia. Don’t linger long – there are miles of marked state highway to explore!

I’ve traveled many thousands of miles on state highways – they are all generally well marked and they certainly lead to some beautiful places. Learn more about the Wisconsin highway system on the Wisconsin Department of Transportation website. Make your road trip lodging plans on Booking.com and here’s where to find more Wisconsin adventures.