BUILDING ON MORE THAN 115 YEARS OF SUCCESS
Our Story
Workers toiled during freezing cold and boiling heat beginning in 1909 to construct a mill along the Wisconsin River. For more than a year and a half, they blasted and built. By fall of 1910, they were ready to produce the first paper at Marathon Paper Mills Company.
From Empty Land to Thriving Mill
The Rothschild Mill’s story began in 1909 with a vision to harness the waterpower of Wisconsin’s rivers. A group of investors acquired land from the Rothschild Power Company on the Wisconsin River’s east bank, launching a project that would become the Village of Rothschild.
That year, Marathon Paper Mills Company was incorporated, and construction began on the mill, dam and housing for employees. By January 1911, the mill was fully operational, producing quality paper on three machines equipped with the latest innovations.
Over the next century, the Rothschild Mill became a leader in paper manufacturing, diversifying into food packaging, waxed paper, butter cartons, lignin-based thermoplastics, household tissue and even vanilla flavoring.
The Birth of the Cougar® Brand
The Rothschild Mill’s success was built on the shoulders of hardworking employees and innovative advancements in papermaking technology.
During the late 1950s, the American Can Company acquired the Marathon Paper Mills Company. By the 1960s, the mill had established itself as a cornerstone of the local economy. It provided stable employment and became deeply intertwined with the surrounding community. In 1967, a $10 million expansion was announced, signaling the mill’s commitment to Wausau and the surrounding region.
The Rothschild Mill expanded its capabilities in 1969 by adding a fine paper machine, setting the stage for the launch of Cougar® — one of the world’s most premium commercial printing papers — in 1972. Known for its quality, consistency and distinctive appeal, Cougar paper became a top choice for printed materials ranging from presidential documents to luxury brands and best-selling novels.
A supercalender transferred to Rothschild from Menominee during the 1960s allowed increased production and flexibility in running different products.
Aerial view of the paper machine building and finishing/warehouse area from October 1968.
A Leader in Innovation
In 1973, Weyerhaeuser acquired the Rothschild Mill, expanding its presence in the Midwest paper industry. This acquisition bolstered Weyerhaeuser’s capacity in paper production, marking a strategic move into the region’s thriving paper market.
During the following decades, Weyerhaeuser invested in modernization and improvements to keep the mill competitive amid shifting demands in the paper industry. The mill primarily produced coated paper and other specialty paper products, catering to various industries.
The company launched the Lynx® Opaque product line in 1986. By 1997, under Weyerhaeuser’s ownership, the mill dedicated 100% of its capacity to producing Cougar®, solidifying its place in the industry as a trusted, sustainable choice.
Joining the Domtar Family
In 2007, the Rothschild Mill joined Domtar, continuing its legacy with Cougar® and Lynx® — both recognized as North America’s leading opaque printing papers.
This acquisition was part of Domtar’s broader expansion strategy in North America, strengthening its presence in the U.S. paper market. Under Domtar, the Rothschild Mill continued its legacy of quality production, adapting to the evolving needs of the paper industry and cementing its role as a key player in Wisconsin’s industrial landscape.
In 2022, the mill proudly celebrated Cougar’s 50th anniversary, highlighting a commitment to premium paper that has only strengthened over the years.
Domtar/We Energies joint announcement with then-Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle in 2009.
A section of the Wisconsin River that had been relatively inaccessible opened to the public for recreational use in May 1996. The hope was that the launch would encourage float trips from Rothschild to Mosinee by anglers and canoeists.
A Century of Community Partnership
The Rothschild Mill has been more than an economic driver — it has been a strategic asset to the community since its inception. As one of the Village of Rothschild’s founding entities, the mill has continually contributed to the area’s development, engaging in volunteer work, supporting local causes and partnering with the Chamber of Commerce for more than a century.
Each year, the mill educates more than 1,000 local students on the art and science of papermaking and contributes $30,000 to community projects. This connection with the community extends to third- and fourth-generation employees who call Rothschild home.
A Safe, Sustainable Future
With safety and environmental performance as core priorities, the Rothschild Mill maintains its commitment to quality, profitability and the well-being of its employees. These efforts reflect Domtar’s core values — agility, innovation and care — as the company looks toward a future that honors the mill’s legacy while embracing change.
The Rothschild Mill is more than just a facility — it’s part of the fabric of Rothschild. Its legacy is a reminder of the resilience and innovation of the papermaking industry, and its future is bright as it continues to serve as a leader in sustainable manufacturing.
Domtar partnered with We Energies to build the power plant to provide power to the mill by using forest residue, mill-generated wood waste and millwork sawdust/shavings as its main fuel sources.