The Wisconsin History Museum serves as a vital resource for understanding the Badger State’s rich and diverse past. While the main museum building in Madison is currently undergoing a major redevelopment, its mission to preserve and share Wisconsin’s history remains strong. This article will guide you through what the Wisconsin History Museum is, its current status, what to expect from its future, and how you can still engage with Wisconsin’s historical narrative today.
What is the Wisconsin History Museum?
The Wisconsin History Museum is the flagship institution of the Wisconsin Historical Society. It is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and sharing the stories of Wisconsin’s people, places, and events. Its extensive collections cover everything from prehistoric artifacts and Native American heritage to the experiences of early settlers, industrial development, and modern-day life in Wisconsin.
Through its exhibits and educational programs, the museum aims to connect visitors with the state’s heritage. It encourages a deeper understanding of the forces that shaped Wisconsin and the diverse communities that call it home. The museum acts as a central hub for historical research and public engagement.
Current Status: A Museum in Transformation
As of late 2023, the Wisconsin History Museum building at 816 State Street in Madison is temporarily closed to the public. This closure is part of an ambitious project to construct a brand-new, state-of-the-art museum facility on the same site. While the physical doors are closed, the Wisconsin Historical Society continues its work behind the scenes, caring for millions of artifacts and preparing for future exhibits.
This redevelopment represents a significant investment in the future of historical education and preservation in Wisconsin. The goal is to create a more immersive, accessible, and engaging experience for all visitors. The new museum is expected to open in 2027.
The New Wisconsin History Museum Project
The new Wisconsin History Museum is envisioned as a premier cultural attraction and educational center. It will be significantly larger than the previous facility, offering expanded exhibit spaces, modern amenities, and enhanced educational programming. The design emphasizes interactivity and storytelling, aiming to bring Wisconsin’s history to life for visitors of all ages.
Key features planned for the new museum include:
- Expanded Galleries: Dedicated spaces for permanent and rotating exhibits, allowing for a broader display of the Historical Society’s vast collections.
- Interactive Experiences: Hands-on exhibits and digital installations designed to engage visitors actively in historical discovery.
- Learning Labs: Classrooms and workshops for educational programs, catering to students, families, and adult learners.
- Community Spaces: Areas for public events, lectures, and community gatherings, fostering a sense of shared history.
- Research Center: Continued access to the Historical Society’s library and archives for scholars and genealogists.
The project is a collaborative effort involving state funding, private donations, and community support. It promises to deliver a world-class institution that will serve as a cornerstone for historical understanding for generations to come.
Exploring Wisconsin’s Past During Redevelopment
Even with the main museum closed, the Wisconsin Historical Society offers numerous ways to explore the state’s history. These resources allow you to delve into Wisconsin’s heritage from home or by visiting other historic sites.
Online Resources and Digital Collections
- Digital Collections: Access thousands of historical photographs, documents, maps, and oral histories through the Historical Society’s online portal. These collections provide a window into various aspects of Wisconsin life.
- Wisconsin Historical Markers: Discover the stories behind historical markers across the state. The Historical Society’s website often provides detailed information about these significant locations.
- Research Services: The Historical Society’s library and archives in Madison remain open by appointment for researchers, genealogists, and those interested in in-depth historical study.
- Educational Content: Explore articles, blog posts, and online exhibits that cover a wide range of Wisconsin history topics.
Other Wisconsin Historical Society Sites
The Wisconsin Historical Society operates a network of historic sites and museums across the state, many of which are open seasonally. These sites offer immersive experiences and provide a deeper look at specific eras and aspects of Wisconsin history:
- Old World Wisconsin (Eagle): An outdoor living history museum showcasing pioneer life and immigrant experiences.
- Wade House Historic Site (Greenbush): Step back to the 1850s and experience life at a stagecoach inn and a bustling blacksmith shop.
- Villa Louis Historic Site (Prairie du Chien): Explore a Victorian country estate, offering insights into the lives of a prominent 19th-century family.
- Stonefield Historic Site (Cassville): Discover rural life at a re-created 19th-century farming village and visit the State Agricultural Museum.
- H.H. Bennett Studio (Wisconsin Dells): Learn about the pioneering photography of H.H. Bennett and the early tourism industry in the Dells.
Visiting these sites provides a tangible connection to Wisconsin’s past and complements the future experience of the main museum.
What to Expect from a Future Visit
Once the new Wisconsin History Museum opens, visitors can anticipate a comprehensive and engaging journey through the state’s past. The exhibits will likely be organized thematically, covering significant periods and topics such as:
- First Peoples: The history and cultures of Wisconsin’s Native American nations.
- Exploration and Settlement: The arrival of European explorers and the establishment of early communities.
- Industry and Innovation: The development of logging, mining, agriculture, and manufacturing.
- Social Change: Movements for civil rights, women’s suffrage, and labor rights.
- Modern Wisconsin: The state’s role in national and global events, and contemporary issues.
The museum will be designed to appeal to diverse audiences, from school groups on field trips to history enthusiasts and families looking for an educational outing. Accessibility will be a key focus, ensuring that all visitors can navigate and enjoy the exhibits.
Planning Your Future Visit
When the new Wisconsin History Museum opens its doors, planning your visit will be straightforward. Here are some general tips to keep in mind for future reference:
- Check Operating Hours: Museum hours can vary by season, so always consult the official Wisconsin Historical Society website before your trip.
- Ticket Information: Details on admission fees, discounts, and membership benefits will be available online. Consider a Historical Society membership for benefits across all sites.
- Location and Parking: The new museum will remain in downtown Madison. Information on nearby parking garages and public transportation options will be provided.
- Accessibility: The new facility will feature enhanced accessibility, including ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
- Group Visits: If you plan to visit with a large group or school, inquire about group rates and guided tour options in advance.
Conclusion
The Wisconsin History Museum, though currently in a period of exciting transformation, remains a cornerstone of historical understanding for the state. Its future promises an even more dynamic and engaging experience for all who wish to explore Wisconsin’s rich heritage. By utilizing the Wisconsin Historical Society’s online resources and visiting its other historic sites, you can continue to connect with the past today. Look forward to the grand opening of the new museum, a truly special destination for learning and discovery.