History


Courtney Woolen Mill opened its doors as north side wool mill on January 4, 1880.

Wool History in Wisconsin

Wisconsin had 54 Woolen Mill in operation in 1871 that year 1,620,000 pounds of wool were converted into cloth, batting, and yarn. In Wisconsin at that time had more sheep then cows.

  • On January 4, 1880 the Kelley family built a three story mill on the bank of the Fox River.
  • A water wheel was used to power the same davis and ferber carding machine that we use today.
  • Courtney Woolen Mill was placed on the national register of historic places on July 15, 1993.
  • The Courtney Woolen Mill has been in the Courtney family since 1904 and is run by Tom Courtney.