Joel Rich (February 24, 1824 – July 10, 1906) was an American businessman, Democratic politician, and Wisconsin pioneer.
His name is incorrectly listed as "Joe Rich" in the annals of the legislature (1880s), and that error is propagated in other places.
Shortly after platting the village, Rich assisted in constructing the first buildings, including a frame house which became the first general store in Juneau, operated by S. H. Coleman.
When the state prison board was established in 1874, Rich was one of the inaugural members appointed by Governor William Robert Taylor.
[2] Rich was active throughout most of his life with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows,[2] and was president of the Dodge County lodge.