Welcome to "Past & Present" the e-Newsletter of the SWCHM
As spring approaches and our exhibit season begins, we are excited to share the latest updates from the South Wood County Historical Museum through our new e-newsletter, "Past & Present." We appreciate your membership and look forward to keeping you informed about our ongoing efforts to preserve and celebrate the rich history of our community.
Exhibit Hours at the South Wood County Historical Museum
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday from 1-4 p.m.
Frances Hamerstrom and the Prairie CHicken Festival
April 1–30 | J. MArshall Buehler Gallery
To kick off the exhibit season, the Prairie Chicken Festival has a display featuring the history of its Festival and American writer, naturalist, and ornithologist Frances Hamerstrom. Stop in to learn more and see how to get involved with the group! Click on the button below for up-to-date information on this year's Festival, which will take place April 7-12.
Traveling Exhibit: Laura Ingalls Wilder
April 1–30 | Brazeau Gallery
Step back in time and experience the world of Laura Ingalls Wilder, one of America's most beloved authors. From April 1 to 30, the South Wood County Historical Museum proudly hosts a special exhibit dedicated to Wilder's life and legacy. The exhibit will showcase the journey of this pioneering writer, who captured the essence of frontier life in her Little House series. The Laura Ingalls Wilder House and Museum in Mansfield, Missouri, provides this display.
Preserving Fashion: Cataloging and Displaying Our Clothing Collection
We are excited to announce a significant step in preserving and sharing our community's rich history: our ongoing project to catalog and showcase select items from our clothing collection. Clothing is more than just fabric and thread; it tells the story of the people, culture, and events that shaped our past.
A Journey Through Time
Over the past couple of months, volunteers Mary Kay Schmidt and Cathy Meils have assisted museum staff in cataloging our collection of historical garments, from everyday to formal attire. These items offer a unique glimpse into the bygone eras' fashion trends, materials, and craftsmanship. By documenting each piece with detailed descriptions, photographs, and history, we ensure that these garments are preserved for future generations while providing valuable insight into the evolution of clothing.
Curating the Past
As part of this project, we’ve carefully selected several pieces to be displayed throughout the SWCM. These garments represent the diverse experiences and lifestyles of our community members. These items are a unique link to the past.
Exclusive Opening March 27th
We invite you to explore this collection, which will open on March 27th and be available for viewing until the end of our exhibit season. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a fashion lover, or simply curious about the past, this exhibit provides a chance to appreciate the artistry and history woven into each garment.
The cataloging project is ongoing, and we look forward to sharing more pieces with you throughout the exhibit season and beyond. Your support helps ensure these historical treasures are cared for and accessible for years.
Pictured: Hildegard Dahlke
Volunteer SPOTLIGHT
SWCHM Docents
At the South Wood County Historical Museum, our dedicated docents are the friendly individuals who greet you as you enter. They are vital in welcoming visitors and assisting with any questions during their visits. This month, we spotlight our exceptional docents whose passion for history and commitment to educating others make them an invaluable part of our team members.
If you are interested in becoming a docent or volunteer, give us a call at 715-423-1580 or email Museum Curator Alison Bruener at Alison@southwoodcountyhistory.org