Few People Know The Real Reason Behind Wisconsin Becoming The Cheese Capital Of America

In Wisconsin, we know a thing or two about cheese, and we’re far more than a bunch of people who wear yellow foam hats. We know a thing or two about quality, as well - our cheesemakers have won more awards than any other state or nation on Earth. We also know about variety – our cheesemakers make over 600 varieties. And we know about tradition – you can’t drive a country mile without running into a place that serves that delicious Wisconsin favorite: fried cheese curds. So where did this Wisconsin tradition begin? There are a lot of people who contributed to Wisconsin’s cheese history, including an early settler with an entrepreneurial spirit. Read on to learn about Anne Pickett, the founder of Wisconsin’s first cottage-industry cheese factory.

Wisconsin's cheese industry is renowned worldwide and has earned the state a well-deserved reputation as the "Cheese State." The state’s industry has its roots in the 1800s.

European immigrants, particularly those from Germany, Switzerland, and Scandinavia, brought their cheese-making expertise to the state.

Cows could be found at scores of pioneer farmsteads.

On a little farm near Lake Mills, Mrs. Anne Pickett began a simple but extraordinary venture in 1841.

Recognizing the potential in her neighbors' cows, she founded the first home cheese factory in Wisconsin.

She formed a little co-op, using the milk from her neighbors' cows to produce both butter and cheese in her kitchen.

Eventually, production outgrew Pickett’s small operation, but the revolution was on.

Before long, cheese factories spread across the state, and by 1869, they were producing over 3 million pounds of cheese. Another decade, and that number would more than quadruple again!

The history of Anne Pickett is detailed by the Lake Mills Aztalan Historical Society, which operates Aztalan Museum.

It has seven buildings on display and a special marker honoring Pickett.

I love exploring Wisconsin’s cheese factories – I’ve been known to drive far into the country to seek one out. Learn more about Lake Mills Aztalan Historical Society on the group’s website. Make your Wisconsin travel plans on Booking.com, and here’s where to find more Wisconsin adventures.