Oshkosh, Wisconsin was once inhabited by the Menominee Indians. Its first settler was Webster Stanley who came in the mid-1830s. The fur trade was the primary reason for settlers coming into Oshkosh.

In 1836, Knaggs Ferry was built. Steam lumber companies, particularly the Paine Lumber Company, became the town’s main source of economy. Oshkosh, Wisconsin’s lumber products were used during the Civil War.

1844 marked the year that the Osborn House was erected. The Oshkosh railroad system was built in 1859. The fires of 1874 and 1875 destroyed most of the city. However, the Grand Opera House was built in 1883, making the town renowned for stars. Lake Winnebago is home to the annual Inland Lakes Yachting Association regatta.