History of Portage, Wisconsin in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: April 17, 2026

Portage, Wisconsin, is a city located in Columbia County, serving as its county seat. According to the 2020 census, the city has a population of 10,581, making it the most populous city within the county. Portage is also part of the Madison metropolitan area.

1998: Portage High School Building Upgrade

In 1998, Portage High School was upgraded to a larger building, and the old high school building became Wayne E. Bartels Middle School.

2000: 2000 Census Data

According to the 2000 census, the city of Portage had a population of 9,728 people living in 3,770 households with 2,228 families, resulting in a population density of 1,172.9 people per square mile.

2007: Portage Canal Clean Up

In the summer of 2007, the Portage Canal was cleaned up and a bike path was added along part of it.

2008: Downtown Street Redone

In the summer of 2008, the main downtown street in Portage was renovated.

2010: 2010 Census Data

According to the 2010 census, Portage had a population of 10,324 people living in 4,060 households with 2,349 families, and a population density of 1,170.5 inhabitants per square mile.