History of Portage:

The historical distinction of Portage lies in its unique geographical location between the Fox and Wisconsin Rivers. Here, the two rivers, one flowing north to the St. Lawrence, the other, south to the Mississippi, are separated by a narrow neck of land over which, for two centuries, Indians, missionaries, trappers, traders, adventurers and settlers traveling the waterway had to portage their canoes and heavy packs from one stream to another. The settlement which grew here because of the resulting traffic was first known as "Wau-wau-onah", Winnebago for "carry on the shoulder". During the French occupation, it was simply "le portage" (from porter: to carry). This was eventually angelicized to Portage

Portage has a local population of 9,804 and serves a regional population of more than 45,000. Recent road improvements allow for a smooth flow of traffic to and from the city. Interstate Highways 90/94 and 39 lie just out side of town: travelers from Milwaukee, Chicago, and beyond can continue on I-90/94 to the Twin Cities and further west. They can also choose I-39 to reach industrial destinations on the upper Wisconsin River and vacation spots further north. Two U.S. Highways, 51 and 16, pass through the city and intersect State Highway 33. Portage is about 35 miles from the state capital of Madison, 90 minutes from Milwaukee and about three hours from Chicago and the Twin Cities.

The local Amtrak station serves rail passengers traveling throughout the nation. The Canadian Rail mainline provides rail freight service. On the north side of town, private and chartered planes utilize the Portage Airport. The Dane County Regional Airport, just 35 minutes from town. A cab service in town operated 18 hours a day and a free van service shuttles seniors who are no longer able to drive. The unique “in-town” airport is just a short walk from several restaurants and motels, with taxi service available. Portage will be the home of a brand new airport in 2006. It's prime location near major commerce and tourist centers in central Wisconsin, including Wisconsin Dells, Baraboo and Madison, make Portage especially attractive to new business and industry.