Jefferson County

Jefferson County is an administrative division in southeastern Wisconsin located between Madison and Milwaukee. The area contains rivers, forests, and farmland with multiple towns and villages spread throughout the region.

The county was established in 1836 when the Wisconsin Territory organized and created local government structures for this region. This early founding helped shape the development of southeastern Wisconsin as settlements grew and expanded.

The county shows a strong connection to farming and rural traditions that shape how communities are organized and function today. You can see this in how the landscape is used, with family farms and agricultural practices still defining the character of the towns and villages.

Administrative services and public records are handled at the county courthouse located in the city of Jefferson. Visitors and residents can access government services and documents they need at this central location.

Towns in this county have direct control over zoning decisions, unlike many other Wisconsin counties where this authority is held by the county government. This local autonomy allows communities to shape their own development and land use patterns.

Location: Wisconsin

Inception: 1836

Capital city: Jefferson

Shares border with: Dodge County, Waukesha County, Walworth County, Rock County, Dane County

Website: https://jeffersoncountywi.gov

GPS coordinates: 43.02000,-88.78000

Latest update: December 7, 2025 10:07