The first in-door, artificial ice rink was opened in London in 1876. It was not until the start of the 20th century that artificial ice rinks became practical. Electric refridgeration and indoor rinks transformed the sport from popular in winter climes such as Wisconsin near everywhere.
Skating is a popular sport and so is football. Wisconsin has the smallest city with a pro football team—the Green Bay Packers, and unlike many teams that leave for greener fields and bigger stadiums, the Packers are firmly planted—they're owned by the city.