Emigration History
From the Ports to Wisconsin
The onward journey of German immigrants into the interior
Select Route
Arrival Ports
Destination Wisconsin
Transit Hubs
Water Route
Railroad
New York
~70%
of all German immigrants
Baltimore
~20%
direct western connection
New Orleans
~10%
Mississippi route
Destination: Wisconsin
Wisconsin was one of the most popular destinations for German emigrants. By 1890, over 35% of the population was of German descent. The “German Belt” – from Milwaukee to Madison – offered fertile farmland and established German communities. The Nisius families settled primarily in Washington County, Ozaukee County, and Dodge County.