At that time, this vast area was sparsely settled, with a total population of about 22,000. In 1836, Milwaukee had under 2,000 people. Madison was only wooded hills and swamps between the four lakes, which had just been bought by James Doty and some other real estate speculators with an eye toward founding a city there.
At that time, this vast area was sparsely populated, with a total population of roughly 22,000. In 1836, Milwaukee had fewer than 2,000 people. Madison was primarily forested hills and swamps between the four lakes, which were purchased by James Doty and other real estate investors for the purpose of establishing a city there.