It’s only natural that on momentous occasions we look back and look ahead. It’s where we find ourselves as we approach the 250th anniversary of the founding of the country.
The Coulee Region wasn’t part of the United States at its founding but was around for its centennial in 1876.
With the help of the La Crosse County Historical Society, here are a few predictions for 1976 from that era:
- Air travel would transform daily life and replace earlier forms of transportation such as riverboats
- Cities like La Crosse would continue to grow in importance and influence
- Public celebrations and shared traditions would remain central to civic life
- Education, religion, and community organizations would help shape society
- A common language, “English”, and shared culture would unite an increasingly diverse population.
What about today? While 2076 is only 50 years away, what changes in technology and society will we see take place?
The La Crosse Heritage Center asked visitors to write down what they thought things would be like in 2076. See what people had to say:
Looking for events, community traditions, and stories celebrating America 250? Find more here!
Published by Kevin Millard on June 10th, 2026
