The History Of Plymouth, The Original Cheese Capital Of The World

Located in the heart of Wisconsin, Plymouth is a beautiful city filled with charm and a rich history. Renowned as “The Cheese Capital of the World”, it is deeply involved with cheesemaking, making this city into a heaven for cheese lovers. This city produces around 14% of this dairy product consumed in the United States.

The cheesy tale of Plymouth started in the 19th century with the arrival of Dutch immigrants and other European settlers. They brought their cheesemaking skills to the city and the journey began. The region was high in farmland and had a cool climate which was an ideal platform for raising dairy cows, including the high-yielding Holstein breed introduced in 1870. These two factors came out to be the right combination that accelerated the making of the cheese industry in Plymouth.

1882 was an important year in Plymouth because of the establishment of the National Cheese Exchange. This revolutionary establishment gave a platform to the cheesemakers of small farms to reach out to buyers and sell the product at fair prices. It was the exchange and the bustling cheese auctions that confirmed Plymouth's recognition as a cheese powerhouse. Though later the exchange was shifted to Green Bay and then to Chicago, the legacy is still alive in Plymouth.

Even today Plymouth proudly boasts its cheesy heritage. When you roam around the streets of the city, several vibrant murals can be seen depicting Plymouth’s cheesemaking history. It is home to Sargento and Sartori and other iconic cheese factories whose products are a part of an important part of the pantry nationwide.

Beyond Cheese

Besides the cheese, it is the vibrant vibe of Plymouth which makes the city a must-visit. Quaint shops, historical sites, and whatnot, it can be a delightful experience for tourists. Many visitors come hungry and enjoy the local cheese-tasting tour. So, would you like to explore Plymouth, “The Original Cheese Capital Of The World”?