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The Wisconsin Historical Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning about the history of Wisconsin. Located on the Capitol Square in Madison, the museum offers visitors a chance to explore the rich cultural heritage of the state through a variety of exhibits and artifacts.
One of the main draws of the museum is its extensive collection of artifacts related to Wisconsin’s history. From Native American artifacts to early European settlements, the museum’s exhibits cover a wide range of historical periods and topics.
You can learn about the state’s early industries, such as logging and mining, and explore the impact of major historical events, such as the Civil War and World War II, on Wisconsin and its people.
In addition to its permanent exhibits, the Wisconsin Historical Museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibits throughout the year. These exhibits cover a wide range of topics and provide visitors with a chance to learn about new and interesting aspects of Wisconsin’s history.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for an interesting way to spend an afternoon, the Wisconsin Historical Museum is a great destination for anyone looking to explore the rich cultural heritage of this great state.
History of the Wisconsin Historical Museum
The Wisconsin Historical Museum is a cultural institution that showcases the state’s rich history and heritage. The museum has a long and storied history, with many changes and developments over the years. This section will explore the museum’s founding and early years, its expansion and growth, and its modern developments.
Founding and Early Years
The Wisconsin Historical Museum was founded in 1846, making it one of the oldest historical societies in the United States. Its mission was to collect, preserve, and share Wisconsin’s history with the public. The museum originally operated out of a small room in the State Capitol building, but quickly outgrew that space.
In 1882, the museum moved to a new location on the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus, where it remained for over 80 years. During this time, the museum’s collection grew significantly, with a focus on Wisconsin’s Native American history, early settlement, and agricultural heritage.
Expansion and Growth
In the 1960s, the museum began to outgrow its space once again, and plans were made to relocate to a new, larger building. The current location, at 30 N. Carroll Street in downtown Madison, opened in 1986. The new building allowed for expanded exhibit space and improved facilities for visitors.
Over the years, the museum has continued to grow and evolve. In 2005, the museum underwent a major renovation to update its exhibits and improve accessibility. Today, the museum’s collection includes over 110,000 artifacts, photographs, and documents, covering a wide range of topics from Wisconsin’s past.
Modern Developments
In recent years, the Wisconsin Historical Museum has continued to adapt to changing times. In 2023, plans were announced for a new, state-of-the-art history center to replace the current museum. The new center is set to open in 2027 and will be located on Wisconsin’s Capitol Square in Madison. It will feature modern exhibits and interactive displays, designed to engage visitors of all ages.
Despite all the changes and developments over the years, the Wisconsin Historical Museum remains committed to its original mission of preserving and sharing Wisconsin’s rich history with the public.
Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a first-time visitor, the museum offers a fascinating look at the people, places, and events that have shaped Wisconsin’s past.
Exhibits and Collections
The Wisconsin Historical Museum is home to a vast collection of artifacts that tell the story of Wisconsin’s unique heritage. The museum has several permanent exhibits, rotating exhibits, and special collections that showcase the state’s history and culture.
Permanent Exhibits
The museum’s permanent exhibits are always available for visitors to explore. These exhibits include “People of the Woodlands,” which explores the lives of Wisconsin’s Native American tribes, and “Frontier Wisconsin,” which tells the story of the state’s early settlers. You can also learn about the state’s industrial history in the “Working Wisconsin” exhibit.
Rotating Exhibits
In addition to the permanent exhibits, the museum also features rotating exhibits that change throughout the year. These exhibits cover a wide range of topics, from art and music to politics and social issues. Some of the past rotating exhibits have included “Wisconsin in Watercolor,” which showcased the work of local artists, and “The Great War: World War I and Wisconsin,” which explored the state’s role in the war.
Special Collections
The Wisconsin Historical Museum also has several special collections that are not on permanent display. These collections include artifacts related to the Civil War, the Women’s Suffrage Movement, and the state’s agricultural history. The museum’s online collections feature a small fraction of the objects in the museum’s artifact collections.
Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a fun and educational activity, the Wisconsin Historical Museum’s exhibits and collections are sure to fascinate and entertain.
Educational Programs
The Wisconsin Historical Museum offers a variety of educational programs for people of all ages. Whether you’re a student, a history buff, or just curious about the past, there’s something for you at the museum.
School Programs
The museum’s school programs are designed to engage students with Wisconsin history in a fun and interactive way. These programs are available for different grade levels and are aligned with state standards. Students can participate in hands-on activities, explore artifacts, and learn from knowledgeable museum staff.
- Sensory-rich Field Trips: These programs are designed to engage students with Wisconsin history in a fun and interactive way. Students can participate in hands-on activities, explore artifacts, and learn from knowledgeable museum staff. Some of the popular programs include the following.
- “A Pioneer’s Life”: Students learn about the daily life of a pioneer family in Wisconsin in the 1800s. They explore artifacts, participate in hands-on activities, and learn about the challenges and rewards of pioneer life.
- “Wisconsin’s Native Peoples”: Students learn about the history and culture of Wisconsin’s Native American tribes. They explore artifacts, participate in hands-on activities, and learn about the traditions, customs, and beliefs of Native peoples.
Public Lectures and Events
The museum hosts a variety of public lectures and events throughout the year. These events are designed to engage the community with Wisconsin history and culture.
- History Sandwiched In: This lunchtime lecture series features talks on a variety of topics related to Wisconsin history. Speakers include historians, authors, and experts in their fields.
- Wisconsin Wednesdays: This monthly event features live music, food, and drinks, as well as tours of the museum’s exhibits. It’s a great way to explore the museum after hours and enjoy the company of fellow history enthusiasts.
Workshops and Courses
The museum also offers workshops and courses for people who want to dive deeper into Wisconsin history. These programs are designed for adults and cover a range of topics. Some of the popular workshops and courses include the following.
- Genealogy Workshops: These workshops are designed for people who want to research their family history. Participants learn how to use genealogy resources, such as census records and vital records, to trace their ancestors.
- Wisconsin History Courses: These courses cover a range of topics related to Wisconsin history, including the fur trade, the Civil War, and the Progressive Era. They are taught by experts in their fields and provide a comprehensive overview of Wisconsin’s past.
That’s a brief overview of the educational programs available at the Wisconsin Historical Museum. Whether you’re a student, a history buff, or just curious about the past, there’s something for you at the museum.
Visitor Information
If you’re planning to visit the Wisconsin Historical Museum, here’s what you need to know.
Hours and Admission
The museum is open from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm on Tuesday through Saturday, and is closed on Sundays and Mondays. Admission is free, but donations are welcome.
Location and Parking
The Wisconsin Historical Museum is located on the Capitol Square in Madison at 30 N. Carroll St. If you’re driving, there are several parking options nearby, including metered street parking, parking garages, and surface lots. The closest parking garage is the Government East Garage at 215 S. Pinckney St.
Accessibility
The museum is wheelchair accessible, and service animals are welcome. If you have any specific accessibility needs, please contact the museum ahead of time to make arrangements.
That’s it for the visitor information. Enjoy your visit to the Wisconsin Historical Museum!
Support and Membership
If you’re interested in supporting the Wisconsin Historical Museum, there are several ways to do so. You can donate, become a member, or volunteer your time.
Donation Opportunities
The Wisconsin Historical Museum is a non-profit organization that relies on donations to continue its mission of collecting, preserving, and sharing stories. You can make a one-time donation or become a sustaining donor by making a monthly contribution.
Donations can be made online or by mail. The Wisconsin Historical Foundation, a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, receives grants and private contributions benefitting the Society and administers the membership program.
Membership Benefits
Becoming a member of the Wisconsin Historical Museum is a great way to support the organization and gain access to exclusive benefits. Members receive free admission to the museum and its 12 historic sites, reciprocal benefits at museums across the country, invitations to exclusive member events, and a 10% discount in museum stores and at shop.wisconsinhistory.org.
To redeem your free membership, speak with guest services at your nearest site, call the membership office at 888-748-7479 or email [email protected]. Discounts only applicable on store merchandise (not applicable for admissions, memberships, gift certificates, rentals, food sales, or on rides) Limit one past port per household.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteering at the Wisconsin Historical Museum is a great way to support the organization and get involved in its mission. Volunteers can assist with a variety of tasks, including giving tours, helping with special events, and working in the museum store.
To learn more about volunteer opportunities, visit the museum’s website or contact the volunteer coordinator at [email protected]
Whether you choose to donate, become a member, or volunteer your time, your support will help the Wisconsin Historical Museum continue to collect, preserve, and share stories for generations to come.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Wisconsin Historical Museum
What exhibits are currently on display at the Wisconsin Historical Museum?
You can find the current exhibits on display at the Wisconsin Historical Museum by visiting their website at https://historicalmuseum.wisconsinhistory.org/. Due to the construction of a new Wisconsin history center, exhibits are currently closed as artifacts have been moved into safe storage.
What is the history behind the Wisconsin Historical Society?
The Wisconsin Historical Society was founded in 1846 and is one of the oldest historical societies in the United States. Its mission is to help people connect to the past by collecting, preserving, and sharing stories and artifacts from Wisconsin’s history.
What events are held at the Wisconsin Historical Museum?
The Wisconsin Historical Museum hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including lectures, workshops, and special exhibits. You can find a list of upcoming events on their website at https://historicalmuseum.wisconsinhistory.org/.
What is the admission fee for the Wisconsin Historical Museum?
Admission to the Wisconsin Historical Museum is free, but donations are appreciated.
What artifacts can be found at the Wisconsin Historical Museum?
The Wisconsin Historical Museum has a vast collection of artifacts that tell the story of Wisconsin’s history, including Native American artifacts, Civil War memorabilia, and items related to Wisconsin’s agricultural and industrial history. You can find more information about the museum’s collections on their website at https://historicalmuseum.wisconsinhistory.org/explore/collections/.
What is the architecture of the Wisconsin Historical Museum?
The Wisconsin Historical Museum is housed in a modern building that was designed by the architectural firm of Hammel, Green, and Abrahamson. The building features a distinctive glass and steel exterior and includes a number of environmentally sustainable features, such as a green roof and a geothermal heating and cooling system.
