Records of overwhelmed Wisconsin suburbanites trying to distance themselves from the Milwaukee rat race date all the way back to 1956 when Franklin town officials went into hiding to dodge summons servers attempting to annex the small community to the City of Milwaukee.
Organized into a township in 1841, Franklin has evolved from rugged wilderness to open farmland to a charming suburb that also brings some serious economic vigor to the table
Records of overwhelmed Wisconsin suburbanites trying to distance themselves from the Milwaukee rat race date all the way back to 1956 when Franklin town officials went into hiding to dodge summons servers attempting to annex the small community to the City of Milwaukee.
Organized into a township in 1841, Franklin has evolved from rugged wilderness to open farmland to a charming suburb that also brings some serious economic vigor to the table. Office parks and new housing are springing up rapidly, making this an ideal locale for young families to work and play. The manufacturing industry is still alive and well in Franklin. Nearly 3,000 residents are employed at 34 plants, including industrial food processors, paper packaging, printing and machinery. Seniors also enjoy the slow place of life in Franklin and appreciate the hospital, 6 clinics and 24 retirement homes located within the community. The strong presence of health care facilities draws in an army of job seekers and more than 4,000 residents are employed in the health and education industries. Big city fixes are easy to satisfy with downtown Milwaukee only 10 miles away and downtown Chicago a quick 80-mile drive. Relaxation aficionados will enjoy the 16 city parks, 11 county parks and 7 others -- 3,881 total acres of outdoor recreation space.
Sit Back and Relax
New residents won't want to miss the communities annual events. Just like any all-American small town, there's a 4th of July celebration, but Franklin takes it a step further by starting the festivities on July 3rd. Dubbed the Franklin Civic Celebration, events on the 3rd and 4th of July include carnival rides, live entertainment, parades, fireworks and even an arm wrestling contest. The St. Martins Fair, appropriately located on St. Martins Road, occurs on the first Mondays of every month and on Labor Day weekend. Vendors flock from all over the greater Milwaukee area to sell their wares, including fresh produce and flowers, crafts, artwork and miscellaneous treasures. Residents who want to unload their attics and basements can apply for booth space at the Franklin City Clerk's office.
Summers in Franklin include much-loved concerts in the park. Since it's Wisconsin, you know there will be a Polka band or two. Also look for classic big band music and some golden oldies. Residents who don't show up with their dancing shoes can relax on a lawn chair or blanket, and refreshments are often provided.
One summer evening per year the police and fire departments sponsor a National Night Out, in which officers display their vehicles, answer questions and provide safety materials. The city of Franklin also distributes tree saplings to residents each Spring, in honor of Arbor Day. There's also an annual city-wide cleanup and an organized trick-or-treat event for Halloween.
Leisure Activities
The Franklin Public Library is the place to be all year round if you want to do some leisure reading or serious research. Midwest Living magazine featured a story on this particular library when its librarian started a "Books for Soldiers" program.
Franklin's Greatest Generation comes together for frequent Senior Dining events at the Franklin City Hall Community Room. For a small donation of $2.50, residents age 60 and older are treated to a nutritious meal to take home or enjoy with other area seniors.
There's also a long list of civic organizations, including The Franklin Historical Society, Lion's Club, and a Snowmobile Club. Yes, Wisconsin newbies will need to get used to the snow. Franklin typically sees about 40 inches of the white stuff per year, which is almost double the national average, but about 5 inches short of the Wisconsin average.
To embrace the American dream by renting in Suburban Franklin, you'll need a car, since bus service outside Milwaukee is limited. The cost of living is relatively low by national standards, and there is ample free parking outside the many rentals available in the area. You can expect all parts of Franklin to be friendly and relaxed without much traffic congestion. Rentals are available in apartment complexes, older homes and duplexes and new developments. Your perfect getaway on the outskirts of Brew City is waiting for you.
