Port Washington is a small city in Ozaukee County, Wisconsin. It is the county seat of Ozaukee. the city is located at the mouth of the Sauk River on Lake Michigan, about 25 miles north of Milwaukee and some 110 miles north of Chicago. In 2000 Port Washington had a population of 10,467 people.
Facilities in Port Washington include the 63 acre Lake Bluff Park.
History
The area that became Port Washington was explored by French explorers in the late 17th century. Wooster Harrison was the town's first permanent settler, in 1835. The community was originally named Wisconsin City. The name was changed to Sauk Washington about 1843. The city was incoporated with its present name in 1882.
The city became a port, doing substantial coal shipping. Industries included fishing and manufacture of chairs and school equipment.
From 1910 through 1935 Port Washington was the home of Paramount Records and other associated record labels.
In 1940 the population was 4,046; in 1950 4,754.
Assorted Facts
Average elevation above sea level: 612 feet. Zip code: 53074
