Welcome to the Community of Albany, Wisconsin

Community Guide

The Village of Albany was officially incorporated in 1839. Situated on the Sugar River, this sleepy village earned the name Pearl of the Sugar River early on due to an abundance of fresh-water mussels (i.e. clams, oysters, etc) that flourished in the river. The fresh-water pearls these clams produce were discovered during the pearl rush that swept the Eastern United States in the later part of the 19th century. The rush produced a small fortune in pearls across the region but it was a quest for mussel shells (for use in button-making) that eventually depleted mussel populations in Albany and throughout the Midwest. Today many species of Midwestern mussels are either endangered or extinct and clamming is prohibited.

Agriculture and tourism are now the principal industries in Albany with the Sugar River and various wildlife areas drawing boaters and other outdoor enthusiasts to the area. Vacationers looking for a relaxing, scenic backdrop can spend lazy afternoons tubing, canoeing, fishing or water skiing on the river which winds through Green County from Belleville to Brodhead and beyond. There are several camping areas in close proximity to Albany along with several Bed and Breakfast options.

Start / Stop Presentation

A Historic Community

Albany is a small agricultural community which is home to many family farms, lush valleys, rolling hills and cool water. Albany, WI offers a quiet retreat for vacationers, retirees, and residents, many who commute to work in the nearby communities of  Madison, Janesville, Beloit and Monroe.

The village holds two yearly festivals -- the weekend-long Yesteryear's Celebration held over Memorial Day weekend and the Fall Festival/Flee Market held every October. The Yesteryear's Celebration is a family fun in the sun as well as a true journey back in time. It's community fun at its best with horses, tractor pulls and many interesting activities of yesteryear fit for the whole family.

If you're interested in learning more about the history of Albany Wisconsin, be sure to check out the Albany Historical Museum. It's open year-round and houses a fascinating collection from Albany's storied past. The museum is open year-round on Saturdays and is a must-see for first-time and returning visitors to Albany. For a glimpse of the future of Albany, check out the  Village of Albany, Year 2030 Plan on the village website.

Map of Albany, Wisconsin