Wisconsin is home to over 650 historical societies, preservation organizations, and heritage groups. From major institutions in Madison to small-town societies preserving local heritage, these organizations maintain vital connections to Wisconsin's rich past.
Featured Historical Societies
Wisconsin Historical Society
Location: Madison, WI
Founded: 1846
One of America's oldest and largest historical societies, operating museum, archives, and historic sites statewide. Preserves extensive collections documenting Wisconsin's Native American heritage, immigrant settlement, dairy farming, progressive politics, and brewing industry.
Website: wisconsinhistory.org
Milwaukee Public Museum
Location: Milwaukee, WI
Founded: 1882
Major natural and human history museum with extensive Wisconsin and Great Lakes exhibits. Features European Village, Streets of Old Milwaukee, Native American heritage displays, and collections documenting region's brewing, manufacturing, and immigrant history.
Website: mpm.edu
Circus World Museum
Location: Baraboo, WI
Founded: 1959
Preserves Wisconsin's circus heritage on original winter quarters of Ringling Brothers Circus. Features world's largest collection of circus wagons, artifacts, and archives documenting when Baraboo was "Circus Capital of the World" in late 1800s-early 1900s.
Website: circusworldbaraboo.org
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Submit a Society →Additional Wisconsin History Resources
- Wisconsin Historical Society - Statewide history organization and museums
- Wisconsin State Historic Preservation Office - State historic preservation programs
- Wisconsin Historical Society Archives - State archives in Madison