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Sovereign State Days
The now infamous story of Winneconne's sovereignty – hence the creation of Sovereign State Days – finds its start in 1967. In that year, Wisconsin mapmakers carelessly left the village off the new state highway map. C.O. Rogers, then publisher of The Winneconne News, became aware of the situation from a salesman attempting to locate his offices in Winneconne, "There’s just a dot between Butte des Morts and Omro," he said. "The map-makers were napping when they should have been mapping!" commented Rogers. That innocent remark began the whole crazy, much discussed, thoroughly enjoyed, and endlessly celebrated secession of Winneconne from the great state of Wisconsin.
Then Village President James P. Coughlin said of the events:
It could be called the greatest thing to ever happen to Winneconne...what might have been a disaster was turned into the greatest publicity stunt in the history of the area...we were able to bring our governor, our congressional representative and a good part of the country to join in the fun. Dozens of people were part of that busy summer of 1967, and dozens more have contributed a great deal of time and effort in the years since...
Now, over 40 years later, the village still celebrates its short-lived and much loved day of sovereignty with its annual Sovereign State Days Celebration. Every July, one full weekend is set aside for traditional festivities including "the best community parade" in the entire state, street dances, fireworks, a huge carnival featuring rides, games and concessions, fireman’s water fights and sandcastle building competitions, flea markets, art shows and much, much, more. Winneconne welcomes all community members and visitors alike to join the fun, but reminds everyone – if you choose to cross our bridge, be prepared to pay a toll into "The Sovereign State of Winneconne!"