Major Industries in West Bend, WI
West Bend, WI is a city located in Washington County in southeastern Wisconsin. The city has a population of just over 31,000 people and is the county seat. West Bend is situated on the Milwaukee River, approximately 30 miles northwest of Milwaukee. The area was first settled by Europeans in the 1830s and was originally known as Hartford. The name was changed to West Bend in 1848. The city was incorporated in 1885. West Bend’s economy has always been driven by manufacturing. Early industries included foundries, furniture factories, and flour mills. Today, major employers include Regal Ware, Inc., Kettle Moraine Hardwoods, and Poly-Flex Corporation. Tourism is also an important part of the local economy. There are several historic landmarks in West Bend, including the Old Courthouse Museum (built in 1858), the Octagon House Museum (built in 1876), and the Young America Mill Complex (built in 1847).