The sun shines as bright, the moon is just as lovely
Brothertown is a rural farming community that rests along the eastern shoreline of Lake Winnebago. “There’s a slice of heaven to be found in these small places. As a small-town girl, one of my dreams was to always live in a place like this,” says Ally Diedrick, an associate broker with Compass and former resident of the area. “The sun shines as bright, the moon is just as lovely. You get to see all the stars at night, the fireflies and fishing poles on the water. It’s something to be thankful for.” Chilton, the nearest epicenter located about 10 miles east, is home to the Calumet County Fair and a bustling summer farmer’s market. Townie bars and casual supper clubs line the road south to Pipe, where boat launches and campgrounds adorn the lakefront. With panoramic views of farmland and the still waters of Lake Winnebago, Brothertown continues to evolve as more homebuyers seek a quiet life in the countryside.
Climb the tower at Columbia Park for great views of the lake and nesting eagles.
A fantastic view of the countryside can be had from the tower at Columbia Park.
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Farmers make up most of Brothertown residents
More land than houses in Brothertown
Brothertown comprises thousands of acres of farmland spanning Lake Winnebago’s eastern shore. In turn, homebuyers are more likely to find land for sale than actual houses. Between the homesteads are single-acre plots with the promise of brand-new construction. “New homes are being planted just like crops,” Diedrick says. “People are reinvesting and renovating as well. Homes built in the early 1900s are now getting makeovers because fewer sellers and more buyers mean people are receiving their asking price or very close to it.” Ranch-style homes, bungalows and traditional architecture line Highway 151 and its interconnected country roads, while modern builds perch closer to the lake with private docks. Regardless, panoramic views of the water or fields are almost guaranteed. While land prices range from $220,000 to $250,000 for an acre-sized lot, brand-new homes are being listed for between $750,000 and $1.4 million.
Stop at the historic Capones for burgers and a drink, south of Brothertown.
Local beer on draft and wooden fish on the ceiling
Though franchises like Culver’s aren’t an option in town—to the dismay of many, including Diedrick—Highway 151 is home to Fisherman’s Inn. This hole-in-the-wall haunt serves American classics, from burgers to fish sandwiches. The letterboard menu above the bar is surrounded by knick-knacks, including vintage Pabst Blue Ribbon cans and signature Green Bay Packers merch. Heading south toward Fond du Lac, it’s common to spot a supper club or two, like the rustic Cedar Lodge Supper Club. There, the bar is crowded with townies sipping local draft beers under the glow of neon signs and wooden fish decorations. “These family-owned supper clubs get passed down from generation to generation,” Diedrick says. “There’s consistency there. You can tell who’s coming at what time, and that’s quite remarkable, I think.” As for groceries, the nearest options are Chilton’s Walmart Supercenter or Blattner’s Piggly Wiggly in New Holstein, 11 miles east.
Brothertown students will attend Chilton Elementary, Middle and High School.
The Chilton School District
Families are zoned for the Chilton School District, which spans from Brothertown to Wells. Chilton Elementary, Middle and High School occupy a large campus on Court Street, about 10 miles northeast within Chilton’s boundaries. Each earns a grade of B-minus on Niche and offers its own designated entrance and bus service. “There’s nothing more exciting for these students than getting their driver’s license and being able to drive to school,” Diedrick says, regarding the distance and flexible transportation options for families. Additionally, all three schools share athletic and other extracurricular facilities, including ball fields and playgrounds. Chilton High offers 10 Advanced Placement courses alongside dual enrollment and apprenticeships through Fox Valley Technical College.
Fishermen can launch a boat from the Brothertown boat ramp.
Launching on Lake Winnebago
Brothertown’s Public Boat Launch sits at the end of Harbor Road, providing a parking lot and fishing piers for water recreation on Brothertown Harbor. Lake Winnebago isn’t always safe for swimming due to periodic algae blooms, and those boating over to Oshkosh should be mindful of no wake zones closer to the Fox River. On land, natural areas are popular and far more frequent than traditional parks in Calumet County. For example, Chilton’s Ledge View Nature Center is 10 miles east, a 105-acre park offering hiking trails and an observation tower for expansive countryside views. Columbia Park is well-known for its boating facilities, including a marina, launches and a fish cleaning station. Situated 5 miles south in Pipe, the park features a playground and ball courts on its campground site adjacent to the water.
The Biggest Little Fair in Wisconsin
The neighboring city of Chilton is home to the Calumet County Fairgrounds. Held annually on Labor Day Weekend, the “Biggest Little Fair in Wisconsin” features 4-H competitions, a tractor pull, live music and even a “Fairest of the Fair” pageant. Local businesses throughout the Winnebago Pool region are known to sell tickets in advance, including the National Exchange Bank & Trust right in town. The Chilton Farmer’s Market lasts from June through October and is hosted every Friday at Klinkner Park. From fresh produce to bakery items and handmade crafts, the market attracts residents across the county throughout the season.
Highway 151 is the main thoroughfare in the Brothertown area.
Life is a Highway 151
Residents of Brothertown are accustomed to driving long distances for errands and other necessities. Since public transportation is not provided, car dependence is normal, if not expected. “The communities around us are all destinations for employment,” Diedrick says. Highway 151 takes commuters 10 miles east to Chilton, 17 miles south to Fond du Lac and 34 miles west to Oshkosh. “The easiest way to reach Oshkosh is probably by boat,” she says. “Otherwise, you’d have to drive around the lake.” Alternatively, Appleton is accessible via Interstate 55, a 27-mile drive northwest. The city is home to Appleton International Airport, the nearest option for flights. Ascension Calumet Hospital is closer to home, located 11 miles west in Chilton.
GreatSchools:
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Experience serene lakeside living, this year-round property boasts 120 ft. of frontage on the East shore of Lake Winnebago to enjoy beautiful sunsets. Home is located at the end of private road and features 3 nice sized bedrooms & 2 baths. Open concept kitchen/living combo leads to spacious 4-season room overlooking the beautiful yard and lake. Finished lower level has rec room, den and 2nd bath.
Quality built home and well designed to provide breathtaking views from every room. Gourmet style kitchen with all the amenities you would expect. Built in double oven, gas cooktop, large upscale island, wine fridge and pantry. Family room with stunning stone surround fireplace, is filled with floor to ceiling windows. Open kitchen-living room design. Bedrooms offer walk in closets and adjoining
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Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
305
Median Age
50
Population Density
1 person/acre
Population under 18
20.3%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
24.6%
Above the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$67,187
Below the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$83,835
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
95.2%
College Graduates
14.5%
Below the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
2.6%
Below the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
64.2%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
31''
Average Winter Low Temperature
12°F
Average Summer High Temperature
81°F
Annual Snowfall
52''
Area Factors
Somewhat Bikeable
Bike Score®
24/ 100
Car-Dependent
Walk Score®
5/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
