By Central Wisconsin Electric Cooperative

This year marks the 85th anniversary since the roots of Central Wisconsin Electric Cooperative were established.

At an April 30, 1937, meeting that included five people who emerged from previous organizational activities, the articles of incorporation for the Waupaca Electric Cooperative were signed.

The goal was to build an electric transmission and distribution system within the counties of Waupaca, Portage, and Shawano. Waupaca Electric Cooperative would eventually become Central Wisconsin Electric Cooperative after it merged with Marathon-Portage Electric Cooperative in 1947.

William Selmer, who graduated from Iola High School in 1923, and later took over the family farm in the township of Harrison, was elected as the first secretary.

Throughout our 85th anniversary year, we will share information and photos from those 85 years.