Nestled in the southern part of Eau Claire, Oakwood Hills stands as a testament to thoughtful planning, deep roots, and a vibrant sense of community. If you stroll its tree-lined streets today, you’ll find more than just comfortable homes—you’ll sense the history woven into every green space, see the legacy in its landmarks, and discover why generations have chosen to call Oakwood Hills home.
The Origins of Oakwood Hills
The story of Oakwood Hills begins in the post-war boom of the mid-20th century, as Eau Claire expanded southward to accommodate its rapidly growing population. In the early 1960s, developers looked to create a neighborhood that would marry residential charm with easy access to emerging commercial centers. What set this area apart, even from the outset, was the dense stand of native oak trees that crested atop the gentle hills just southwest of Clairemont Avenue. It’s these very oaks—and the rolling terrain—that gave Oakwood Hills its name, a moniker that evokes both the natural setting and a welcoming sense of place.
Naming the Neighborhood
Local legend suggests the name “Oakwood Hills” was coined during a community planning meeting in 1964, when a young participant remarked that the landscape “looked like an oak wood on a hill.” That simple, heartfelt observation resonated, and the name stuck. For many early residents, it symbolized a break from the grid-like streets of downtown, promising a new community nestled around nature—not carved through it.
Key Milestones Through the Decades
Oakwood Hills bears witness to several milestones that have helped shape Eau Claire’s story:
- 1970s Residential Boom: Bolstered by the construction of major thoroughfares like Golf Road and Oakwood Hills Parkway, the neighborhood’s first wave of single-family homes appeared, attracting young families and professionals alike.
- Oakwood Mall Opening (1986): The development of the Oakwood Mall, one of northwest Wisconsin’s largest shopping centers, put Oakwood Hills on the map. The mall brought jobs, entertainment, and a new vitality to the area, bridging Oakwood Hills and the wider Eau Claire community.
- Access to Nature: Parkland like the Oakwood Hills Park off Pine Park Drive became a focal point for families, while the nearby Fairfax Park offered one of the city’s best public swimming pools and recreation facilities.
- Faith in Community: The construction of churches such as Trinity Lutheran Church on Golf Road and St. Mary’s Catholic Church became both spiritual and social anchors, further binding neighbors together.
Notable Landmarks and Institutions
Oakwood Hills is home to several touchstones that mark the passage of time and the values of its residents:
- Oakwood Mall: While technically just outside the residential area, the mall is a beloved regional destination, with its grand opening in 1986 sparking a wave of local excitement and economic growth. Generations of families have shopped, celebrated milestones, and grown up with this bustling hub at the neighborhood’s edge.
- Oakwood Hills Park: This tranquil stretch of green is more than just playgrounds and walking paths—it’s the backdrop for summer picnics, little league games, and evening strolls beneath the tall, sheltering oaks that gave the neighborhood its name.
- Fairfax Pool and Fairfax Park: A short drive from South Hastings Way, this pool is the place for summer fun. The surrounding park is a gathering place for sports, festivals, and outdoor concerts, making it an integral part of Oakwood Hills life.
- Neighborhood Schools: While Oakwood Hills doesn’t have a school of its own, its proximity to Robbins Elementary, South Middle School, and Memorial High School makes it a top choice for families prioritizing education.
Oakwood Hills Today: A Neighborhood Evolving
While Oakwood Hills is rooted in tradition, it has embraced change with open arms. In recent decades, the community has seen:
- Diverse Housing Options: From the classic ranch-style homes of the 1970s to newer townhouses and upscale apartments on Gateway Drive and Oakwood Hills Parkway, the neighborhood’s housing stock has diversified, welcoming retirees, young professionals, and families at all life stages.
- Business Growth: The Oakwood Hills area is dotted with locally owned shops, restaurants, and medical offices, supporting a vibrant small-business culture that enriches daily life and creates a true sense of neighborhood identity.
- Green Initiatives: Residents have long valued their parks and trees, inspiring active stewardship groups and city-backed projects to maintain, restore, and expand the area’s green spaces.
Enduring Heritage and Community Spirit
Ask anyone who’s called Oakwood Hills home what makes it special, and you’ll hear stories of block parties on Robin Road, volunteer days at Oakwood Hills Park, and multi-generational families returning, again and again, to the friendly, welcoming streets first carved out of former farmland decades ago. The strong neighborhood association, crowned with an annual summer picnic, remains a point of pride and connection.
Conclusion
Oakwood Hills is more than a place—it’s a living, breathing community that honors its roots. As Eau Claire continues to grow and change, the people of Oakwood Hills preserve a sense of continuity and heritage, blending innovation with deep respect for the past. Whether you’re admiring the sunset from the hilltops of Tamarack Trail, browsing shops along Golf Road, or simply enjoying the chorus of birds in Oakwood Hills Park, you’re experiencing the timeless spirit that has made this neighborhood a beloved part of Eau Claire for generations.