Founded in Wisconsin - The City of Beloit
- greenwoodphilip
- Jan 27
- 8 min read
Continuing the series on companies established in Wisconsin cities, we now focus on firms originating in Beloit and Janesville, Wisconsin. This entry offers a brief overview of Beloit, Wisconsin, highlighting some individuals and early companies that contributed significantly to its growth through the 1960s. Companies still operating today that were founded in Beloit many years ago will be discussed in separate posts. Additionally, another blog post will explore the key figures who played a crucial role in the city's early development.
Beloit, Wisconsin: From Native American Roots to a Thriving 21st-Century Community
Beloit, Wisconsin, a city with a diverse history, has undergone a transformation from its Native American roots to a thriving industrial center and now a revitalized community poised for growth in the 21st century. Located at the confluence of the Rock River and Turtle Creek, Beloit's story begins with the Ho-Chunk tribe, who called this area home for centuries before European settlement. The city's journey encompasses the arrival of New England settlers, the establishment of Beloit College, a booming industrial era, significant demographic shifts during the Great Migration, economic challenges, and a subsequent renaissance. Today, Beloit stands as a testament to community resilience and innovation, blending its historical legacy with modern economic development to create a vibrant, forward-looking city.
The Historical Roots and Transformation of Beloit, Wisconsin
The history of Beloit is intricately connected to the Ho-Chunk Native American Tribe, who occupied the region long before their departure in 1832. The French documented their presence in Wisconsin as early as 1616, with archaeological findings indicating their migration between AD 800 and 1200. By approximately 1830, the Ho-Chunk had established a prominent village known as Ke-Chunk or Turtle Village near the Illinois-Wisconsin border. Their departure during the Black Hawk War in 1832 marked the conclusion of a residence that spanned several centuries.
The Ho-Chunk led a vibrant lifestyle centered around the confluence of the Rock River and Turtle Creek. They engaged in agriculture, hunting, fishing, and gathering, adapting their movements seasonally to optimize resource use. Their social organization comprised large villages and a sophisticated clan system. The Black Hawk War resulted in their displacement, facilitating the arrival of white settlers and increased land settlement.
Following the war, Joseph Thiebault, a multilingual trader with the American Fur Company, constructed a log cabin at the junction of the Rock River and Turtle Creek in 1835. His trading post was strategically positioned near major Indian trails. In 1836, he sold his land to Caleb Blodgett, contributing to the founding of Beloit, before relocating to Lake Koshkonong in 1837 to establish a new trading post.
The Founding of Beloit: From Blodgett's Land Purchase to a Thriving New England-Style Town
In 1836, Caleb Blodgett's arrival marked the beginning of permanent settlement in Beloit, Wisconsin, following his acquisition of land from French fur trader Joseph Thiebault. Blodgett subsequently sold a portion to Dr. Horace White's New England Emigrating Company, which planned the development of churches, schools, and businesses. The strategic location at the confluence of the Rock River and Turtle Creek attracted settlers, transforming the area into a thriving town, with institutions like Beloit College established by 1846. Blodgett's land transactions were pivotal to Beloit's expansion, and his legacy continued through his descendants.
The New England Emigrating Company, founded in 1836 by twelve men from Colebrook, New Hampshire, sought opportunities in the west. Dr. Horace White acquired land in Beloit, attracting settlers from New Hampshire by 1837, who built homes and cultivated the land. They hired Kelso Surveyors to design the city's layout, envisioning streets such as Canal and College. The company aimed to create a New England-style village in the Midwest, selecting Beloit for its fertile land and the water power from Turtle Creek and the Rock River. They purchased land from Blodgett and invited others to join. Their plans included streets named Canal, Hydraulic, and College, reflecting aspirations for industry and education. Mills, churches, and schools were vital to Beloit's growth. Initially called "New Albany," it was renamed Beloit in 1838, inspired by "Detroit" and a French term for "handsome ground." The company's legacy lies in fostering a culture of innovation and progress that endures today. (More will be presented on the early entrepreneurs in later posts)
Beloit College: A Catalyst for Economic and Cultural Growth in Wisconsin
Beloit College, established in 1846, is Wisconsin's oldest continuously operating college, renowned for its innovative curriculum and international programs. Its founding significantly influenced Beloit's development, with early city planning reflecting a dedication to higher education. Lucius Fisher's land donation positioned the college as a central element of the city, boosting the local economy by attracting students, faculty, and staff. Cultural enrichment followed with the creation of institutions such as the Wright Museum of Art and the Logan Museum of Anthropology, while the college's architecture shaped the city's aesthetic. As the second oldest college in Wisconsin, Beloit College has enhanced the city's prestige, significantly impacting its identity, economy, and culture.
Alongside the college, several companies played a crucial role in Beloit's growth from 1846 through the post-World War II era. Beloit became a center of manufacturing and commerce, with key companies like the Beloit Corporation shaping the economic landscape. The college's presence stimulated local business growth, fostering a vibrant cultural environment. In the early 1900s, key figures played pivotal roles in Beloit's development. Alonzo Aldrich turned Beloit Iron Works into a leader in papermaking machinery between 1889 and 1931. Elbert H. Neese Sr. boosted the company's sales after joining in 1916. Arthur P. Warner, who founded Warner Instrument Company in 1904, invented the speedometer in 1908, advancing automotive technologies. William Wheeler's decision to relocate his father's windmill manufacturing to Beloit led to the success of the Eclipse Windmill Company. In 1893, Charles Morse merged several companies to form Fairbanks, Morse, & Company. Orson E. Merrill and George Houston founded Merrill and Houston Iron Works in 1858, laying the foundation for Beloit's industrial growth, which later became Beloit Iron Works.
The Industrial Legacy of Beloit: From Paper Machinery to Precision Instruments
Several companies in Beloit played a pivotal role in its growth through the 1960s, particularly in the paper machinery industry, capitalizing on the city's river location, infrastructure, and Wisconsin's timber resources. Beloit Corporation, founded in 1858 as Merrill and Houston Iron Works, transitioned to paper machinery by 1862 and expanded internationally by 1900, before declaring bankruptcy in 2000. Warner Instrument Company, established in 1904 by Arthur Pratt Warner and his brother, initially manufactured magnetic "cut-meters" and later speedometers, which became standard in over 90% of U.S. vehicles by the 1920s. It was acquired by Stewart and Clark in 1912 and later concentrated on biomedical devices under Harvard Bioscience in 2001. Fairbanks Morse Company, originating in 1823, diversified from scales to engines under Charles Hosmer Morse by 1916. Yates American, formed in 1925 from a merger, emerged as a leading woodworking machinery manufacturer, specializing in large planer-matchers by the 1980s. (These four companies were just some of the many that spurred the growth of Beloit in the first half of the 20th century. More will be provided on Yates American in a separate blog post.)
The Need for Labor to Support Beloit's Growth - The Great Migration
From the 1910s to the 1970s, the Great Migration had a profound impact on Beloit's economy and culture as the arrival of African American workers helped alleviate labor shortages in manufacturing, particularly at Fairbanks Morse and Beloit Iron Works. The Black population increased from 60 in 1910 to 834 by 1920. This growth spurred the development of new housing, such as the Fairbanks Flats in 1917. The new residents from northeastern Mississippi established close-knit communities centered around churches and social events, enriching the city's educational and religious landscape. By 2000, African Americans constituted 15.4% of Beloit's population, in contrast to 5.7% in Wisconsin. The Great Migration transformed Beloit into a diverse, culturally vibrant community with a significant African American presence, reshaping its economic and social fabric.
Revitalizing Beloit: From Economic Decline to Community Renewal and Growth
In the 1970s, Beloit encountered economic challenges due to a downturn in manufacturing, particularly in the paper machinery sector, which led to job losses and increased unemployment. The rising cost of essential goods and population migration to the suburbs changed the economic environment, resulting in housing difficulties and elevated crime rates. Beloit embarked on several community revitalization initiatives such as Beloit 2000/Beloit 2020, which emphasize riverfront development with Riverside Park and community facilities, as well as the City Center Plan aimed at renewing the historic core. Downtown revitalization efforts have transformed the Wisconsin Power & Light Building into Hotel Goodwin and Velvet Buffalo Café, complemented by new condominiums and hotels.
Economic development strategies focused on attracting businesses and expanding the manufacturing base, particularly in the food and beverage sector. Housing programs were directed at improving housing stock, converting rentals to owner-occupied homes, and supporting first-time buyers. The Fairbanks Flats Revitalization project preserved historical complexes, while community policing initiatives emphasize engagement. Educational partnerships with local schools and Beloit College focus on workforce development. The Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy Areas Plan addressed neighborhood challenges, promoting economic empowerment and housing opportunities. Sustainability efforts aim to enhance community sustainability.
Economic Strength and Development - the 21st Century
Beloit, Wisconsin, is witnessing robust economic growth as it approaches 2025, despite a population decline to 36,212. Leading the state, the housing market has seen a 31.4% increase in home prices. By September 2024, Rock County's unemployment rate reached a record low of 2.5%, and home sales increased by 7.5%, with a 6.6% rise in average sale prices year-over-year. In 2023, the city's median household income was $59,975, with a diverse population and a median age of 33.6 years.
Beloit has evolved from a frontier town facing economic difficulties into a city on the rise, driven by community initiatives and development. Key companies fueling this growth include ABC Supply Co., Fairbanks Morse Defense, Regal Beloit Corporation, and AccuLynx. Hendricks Holding Company has spearheaded various projects, while NorthStar Medical Radioisotopes and Kerry Ingredients have made significant investments in the area. The forthcoming Ho-Chunk Nation casino, anticipated to be completed in 2026, is expected to have a substantial economic impact. The housing market remains strong, supported by ongoing developments. Education is a priority, with Beloit College conferring 264 degrees in 2022, and workforce development is aligned with employer requirements. The city's future is promising, with growth, infrastructure enhancements, and a focus on expanding its manufacturing base, particularly in the food and beverage sector.
Conclusion
As Beloit nears its bicentennial, the city exemplifies resilience, innovation, and community spirit. From its Native American roots to its industrial peak and subsequent revitalization, Beloit has continually adapted to evolving circumstances. Currently, the city is undergoing a renaissance, marked by a robust economy, diverse population, and a renewed emphasis on sustainable growth. Ongoing development initiatives, including the anticipated Ho-Chunk Nation casino, are poised to further enhance the local economy. With its rich history as a foundation and a progressive approach to urban development, Beloit is well-equipped to address future challenges. The city's dedication to education, workforce development, and cultural preservation ensures its continued vibrancy and hospitality for generations to come. As Beloit advances, it honors its historical legacy while embracing 21st-century opportunities, embodying the spirit of progress that has consistently defined it.
Citations:
https://www.greaterbeloitworks.com/news-and-media/p/item/60703/rock-county-economy-rolling-into-2025
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