MADISON, a city of the United States of North America, capital of the state of Wisconsin, Dane county, on an isthmus between Third and Fourth Lakes, 80 miles W. of Milwaukee. The land on which it stands rises abruptly from the lakes; and has a generally unequal surface, commanding, however, a most extensive and charming prospect. The capital, built of limestone, is situated on a platform 70 feet above the lakes; and to the W. of this, on an eminence nearly 60 feet higher, stands the Wisconsin university, founded in 1851. Iron and wool are manufactured here, and a brisk trade is carried on in agricultural produce. Water power is abundant; and by railway the town is connected with the Mississippi and Michigan Lake. Pop. (1850) 1525, (1855) 8664.