Summer is here, and so is a season full of discovery at the South Wood County Historical Museum! This month, we're diving into captivating stories from the past, unveiling new artifacts, and offering programs that bring history to life. Whether you're a lifelong history buff or a curious first-time visitor, there's something for everyone to explore. Continue reading for a reflection on May and a preview of what’s in store for June!
Exhibit Hours at the South Wood County Historical Museum
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday from 1-4 p.m.
WoodTrust Bank History
OPen Through August 31 | J. MArshall Buehler Gallery
Since its inception, the bank’s continuous success and independence have been rooted in customer loyalty, community support, and the dedication of its employees. This reaffirms its commitment to providing exceptional financial services. Visit us to discover more about the people associated with the bank's history in our community and check out some vintage pieces of banking history!
Traveling Exhibit: Becoming the United States: Colonial America to Reconstruction
Open Through June 26 | Brazeau Gallery
"Becoming the US" is designed as an introduction to the beginnings of American history and the skills required for primary source analysis. Using items from the Gilder Lehrman Collection, it explores individuals, groups, and documents that have contributed to our identity as a country and encourages visitors to think critically about the first-hand accounts from this era. Bring a friend or grandchild along to learn about early American history!
Sunday, June 1, at 2 pm
Brett Barker Presentation
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Dr. Brett Barker for a truly fascinating and insightful presentation on the Civil War, told through the powerful lens of letters and diaries.
Your engaging storytelling brought the past to life and offered a deeply personal perspective on one of the most defining chapters in American history. We are grateful for your time, knowledge, and dedication to preserving and sharing these important voices from the past.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for this memorable event!
Historic Third Street Walking Tour
Previously known as "Quality Row" and "High Street," the area where the SWCHM is situated has hosted many influential community members!
Our next tour has been rescheduled to Sunday, June 8th, due to weather cancellations. We still have openings available at 2:30 PM, so please call us at (715) 423-1580 to reserve your spot!
Check out some sneak peeks below!
570-Third Street
The former 1915 home of Roye Mortimer Rogers. Rogers arrived in Grand Rapids in 1914 to serve as the Secretary-Treasurer for the Stange Ellis Lumber Company.
Following the Rogers family, Dr. Otto Backus lived in the home until 1949, when he sold it to the American Legion Post #9.
In 1965, the building was sold for $31,700 to Bockl Development Corp. (Milwaukee), which demolished the structure and constructed the 22-unit apartment complex that stands today.
741-Third Street
The c. 1901 John E. Daly residence was home to the proprietor of the J.E. Daly Drug & Jewelry store on Second Street.
Daly was also the distributor for Seagram's in the northern half of Wisconsin. Local historian Paul Gross recalls that he had to pay the distributor before the order could be delivered, noting that some checks amounted to over 100 thousand dollars.
Cranberry Blossom Festival
The museum is open for extended hours during the Annual Cranberry Blossom Festival! Stop by to explore the grounds and exhibits while enjoying a scoop of ice cream, available while supplies last!
Friday, June 20: Exhibits open from 1-3 PM
Saturday, June 21: Ice Cream Social from 1-3 PM
Sunday, June 22: Exhibits open from 1-4 PM
Author: Laurie Schneider Presentation
June 25 at 5 PM
Join us at SWCHM for an evening with Laurie Schneider, a local author! Her latest book, "Gittel," narrates the tale of 13-year-old Gittel Borenstein, whose family, along with others, migrated from Eastern Europe to Mill Creek, Wisconsin, in 1911.
"Gittel" is set in the fictional town of Mill Creek, WI, but the surrounding towns and many of the landmarks mentioned in the book are real places. Mill Creek is based on the town of Arpin, the site of the Jewish agricultural colony where the author's great-grandfather, Alvin Garber, lived for five years.
Check out the link below to learn more about the Jewish colony in Arpin, made by the Jewish Museum in Milwaukee!
Timeless Tales: Story Time
In recognition of our buildings' history as the T.B. Scott Public Library, children ages 3 and up are invited to the South Wood County Historical Museum for "Timeless Tales: Story Time."
Together, we will embark on a journey into the past through classic stories brimming with wonder, courage, and heart.
And stick around after the reading as we create a themed craft to take home!