Portage is a pleasant mid sized town. The history of Portage is that it was settled at a key carrying points for canoes between the Wisconsin & Mississippi Rivers, hence the French name. Prior to being called Portage, the location of the town was called Wau wau onah, which is from the Winnebago aboriginal language meaning "carry on shoulder". Today the city of Portage is an agricultural center serving the needs of the surrounding farms.
The history of Fort Winnebago is highlighted in the Fort Winnebago Surgeon's Quarters from the 1800's. Various implements and furniture are on display and the history of Fort Winnebago is presented. This is the only remaining building from the original Fort Winnebago and the Daughters of the American Revolution have lovingly restored it.
The Historic Indian Agency House, located in Portage, is listed on the National Register of Historic places. This restored home was built in the early 19th Century and now contains a variety of items from that time period. The US Government originally built the home for John Kinzie who was an agent to the Winnebago Indians.
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