Amherst, village in Portage County, Wisconsin, United States
Amherst is a small village in Portage County, Wisconsin, sitting quietly among forests and near the Tomorrow River. Simple streets hold modest homes, small shops, and older buildings that mark its past, while nearby Mill Pond spreads across about 48 acres offering fishing and quiet water views.
The village began in 1851 when John F. Hillstrom settled there, then took its name in 1853 from a British general who had served in the American Revolution. Around one hundred years later, a dam built on the Tomorrow River created Mill Pond and powered a mill that served local farms for generations.
The village bears the name of a British general from the 1700s, a detail residents take pride in explaining to visitors. Local gatherings like farmers markets and seasonal festivals show how neighbors maintain traditions together, with homemade goods and casual conversation bringing people closer.
The village is easily reached via US Highway 10 nearby, which connects to larger towns in the region. Public boat ramps and river access points let visitors enjoy the water, while a small downtown area has shops and a library to explore at your own pace.
The village has a Canadian National Railway line passing through it, carrying freight and passengers to distant places, which is unusual for such a small town. This connection has existed for over a century and visitors often miss it while focusing on the quiet streets and river views.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
