About Tomahawk

The City of Tomahawk was incorporated in 1891, during the height of a lumbering boom in Wisconsin. Called the "Magic City," it already boasted approximately 2,000 inhabitants, and through its logging and milling operations, produced 60-75 million feet of lumber every year.

Tomahawk's founder, William H. Bradley, had organized the Tomahawk Land and Boom Company in 1886 in connection with the Chicago, Milwaukee, and St. Paul Railroad, and constructed the first dam and paper mill in 1888. Bradley was instrumental in the city's development, including the first school -- the building of which is now our Historical Society Museum! After his death, the city purchased land from the Bradley Company and designated it Bradley Park, a popular and picturesque spot yet today.

Presently, manufacturing continues to play a large part in the Tomahawk area: Harley-Davidson, Packaging Corporation of America, LP Building Solutions, Samuel Pressure Vessel Group, and more operate facilities in Tomahawk.

Tomahawk is also known for its peaceful Northwoods beauty surrounded by recreational and natural waters. The city is located on the shores of Lake Mohawksin, so named for the three rivers that create it: The Somo, Tomahawk, and Wisconsin. Lake Alice, Lake Nokomis, and more add thousands of acres of boating, fishing, swimming, and skiing opportunities.