# Harrison (village), Wisconsin

Harrison is a village in Calumet and Outagamie Counties, Wisconsin, United States. It is a part of the Appleton, Wisconsin Metropolitan Statistical Area. The village was created on March 8, 2013, from unincorporated areas of the Town of Harrison and a portion of the Town of Buchanan: the right of way along County Trunk Highway KK in Outagamie County. The village is located in what was the northwestern part of the town of Harrison and borders Appleton and Menasha. As of the 2020 census, it had a population of 12,418, all of which lived in Calumet County.

## History

Originally chartered in 1853 as the Town of Lima, Harrison transitioned to become the Town of Harrison in 1858. Since its establishment, Harrison has grown into a thriving community, characterized by its rich history and natural beauty.
The first town meeting took place on the "Pratt farm" south of Sherwood, marking the beginning of Harrison's development. In 2013, the residents of the Town voted to incorporate Harrison into the Village of Harrison, a move certified by Secretary of State Douglas LaFollette on March 8, 2013. Following the incorporation, the Village of Harrison and the Town of Harrison entered into a boundary agreement, reunifying the community under one entity. The incorporation of Harrison into a village marked a significant shift, with some residents resenting the transition from a predominantly rural community to a more suburban one.
The Harrison Athletic Association (HAA) provides recreational opportunities and fosters community engagement through organized sports leagues and events.

## Geography and Climate

Harrison is situated along the northeastern shores of Lake Winnebago, offering residents stunning views and access to one of Wisconsin's largest inland lakes. The village's geography is a mix of rolling hills, fertile farmland, and rural landscapes. The climate in Harrison is classified as humid continental, with four distinct seasons, making it ideal for outdoor activities year-round.

## Economy

Agriculture remains a significant part of Harrison's economy, with dairy farming, crop production, and livestock raising being primary sources of income for many residents. These farms largely remain in the eastern and southern parts of the community. The village also benefits from its proximity to larger urban centers, providing employment opportunities in various industries.
North Shore Golf Club is a private golf club in Harrison. It is situated along the north shore of Lake Winnebago and was constructed in 1930 largely with the assistance of horses. This 18-hole course was designed by Leonard Macomber.

## Demographics

Harrison has grown significantly in the past decade. It is rapidly changing from a rural community to suburban. The majority of the development in Harrison is occurring in the northwestern part of the village with largely residential developments along with several new apartment complexes. This portion of Harrison benefits from its large area of agricultural land and proximity to the greater Fox Valley. The village has grown quickly in the recent years.
| | Population | % Change |
| 1920 | 1,937 | |
| 1930 | 1,871 | -3.41% |
| 1940 | 2,177 | 16.35% |
| 1950 | 2,818 | 29.44% |
| 1960 | 2,873 | 1.95% |
| 1980 | 3,541 | 23.25% |
| 1990 | 3,195 | -9.77% |
| 2000 | 5,756 | 80.16% |
| 2010 | 10,839 | 88.31% |
| 2020 | 12,439 | 14.76% |
The 2020 U.S. Census estimates the population of Harrison at around 13,179.