10/20/2026
As you drive around the city, do you ever wonder what the story behind the street name is? While some street names are obvious others are more uniquely Appleton. Today we explore the namesake of Packard Street: Frederick Packard.
Born in July 1828 in Springfield, Massachusetts, Frederick Adolphus Packard was the eldest son of Frederick A. Packard Sr. and Elizabeth Ho**er. After graduating from Yale University in 1848 and studying law at Harvard Law School, Packard moved to Appleton around 1850 to establish his law practice. His relocation to the young village was encouraged by Amos Lawrence, a key figure in the founding of Lawrence University.
Soon after arriving, Packard's law office on College Avenue became the site of Appleton's first Presbyterian services. The office occupied the upper floor of the building that then housed the post office, which was later demolished in 1907. Packard was also one of the seven founding members of what became the First Congregational Church. Originally organized as a Presbyterian congregation, the church adopted the Congregationalist tradition about a year later. At just 22 years old, Packard was chosen as a deacon, helped secure the congregation's first pastor, and taught Appleton's first adult Bible classes.
When Appleton was incorporated as a city in 1857, Packard was elected its first city clerk. He remained active in civic affairs, serving on several local organizations, including as a trustee of the Appleton Cemetery Association.
In November 1852, Packard married Ellen Louisa Hall. Although the couple had no biological children, they adopted a daughter, Frances.
Packard's promising life was cut short when he died of pulmonary tuberculosis just days before his 34th birthday in 1862. While traveling to Philadelphia to visit friends and his father, his health declined, and he passed away there. He was laid to rest in Springfield Cemetery in his hometown of Springfield, Massachusetts.
The next time you travel down Packard Street, remember the young lawyer, church leader, and public servant whose contributions helped shape Appleton's early history.
Keep an eye out for future stories behind the street names coming up!
