The Village of Sullivan beginnings started with being part of the Town of Sulllivan, WI. The first name for this area was called Winfield. The tiny community was laid out and recorded by two men, Earl Newton and Enock B. Fargo on June 21, 1881. These men were anticipating a bright future for this area with the coming of the railroad. The Railroad came to Winfield in 1882; the depot was built in 1884. With the coming of the railroad the small town of Winfield began to prosper. John Boettcher and his attorney John Hazelwood made a survey, had it certified, passed a petition around the community and on July 21, 1915, Winfield became the incorporated “Village of Sullivan” official use”.
The first building in the area was called the “Badger House”. The land was purchased by Ladwig Vinz. The tavern/inn was built in 1850 on Prairieville-Jefferson Territorial Road for the many travelers going west.
As travelers came either by train, wagon, or walking, the growth of the community grew. Barney Grogen built the “Park Hotel” in 1883 near the railroad. Albert Eckert built a blacksmith shop at the present site of the bank. Henry Eckert (Albert’s brother) relocated the blacksmith shop to the present site of the Village Hall.
Today, Sullivan is known for the World’s Greatest Junk Parade. This is not your typical parade. Forget about the shiny cars or brightly colored trucks and farm tractors that usually are featured in a parade, The World’s Greatest Junk Parade is just the opposite. In fact, the worse the parade entry looks, the better.
From old rundown and rusty manure spreaders, to beat-up, banged-up cars and even motorboats with wheels, parade entries are judged not only on their junky appearance, but their creativity as well. History of Sullivan and the Junk Parade courtesy of the Village of Sullivan, Jefferson County website. Junk Parade picture courtesy of Laurie Muffler
Permission to place by owner: Jason St. George
Please respect the private property.
