White Oak Springs takes its name from the beautiful and unfailing springs, which shaded by the foliage of miniature white oaks, supply the town with water.

Description from John W. Hunt's 1853 Wisconsin Gazetteer: "WHITE OAK SPRINGS, P. V, on section 32, town 1 N., of rage 2 E.; being in county of Lafayette, and distant 5 miles from Shullsburg, and 80 miles southwest from Madison. Population 100; with 26 dwellings, 4 stores, and 1 hotel. Its location and advantages are as favorable as any village in the West. Lead ore abounds in large quantities in its vicinity, and forms no inconsiderable item in the pursuit of its inhabitants."

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[Source: Lafayette County History, p.582. (F902L2 H67).]