Great Lakes Small Streams: How Water Shapes Wisconsin
We drink it, fish in it, clean with it, swim in it and travel across it. Water has always been critical for our survival.
The Great Lakes region is home to one of the largest freshwater resources on the planet. That water shaped the landscape, history and communities of our state. The Wisconsin Historical Society's traveling display Great Lakes Small Streams: How Water Shapes Wisconsin explores our state's long relationship with water and the impact we have had on our vast waterways.
This display is available to schools, nature centers, public libraries, historical societies and civic organizations in Wisconsin.
Plankton Trapping
Background
Great Lakes Small Streams tells the story of Wisconsin's relationship with water in simple language, with reproductions of 70 historic and contemporary photographs and documents. The display is most suitable for secondary schools and the general public.
View the complete contents of each panel.
A student activity guide that includes cross-disciplinary classroom activities on the history of water resources in Wisconsin is also available (see below).
We gratefully acknowledge the Herzfeld Foundation, Wisconsin Humanities Council, and Ralph Evinrude Foundation for their generous support of Great Lakes Small Streams.
Display Details
8 freestanding, double-sided poly fabric banners, 39" x 87", on retractable banner stands
360 sq. ft.
$100, plus transport
One copy of the display is available for rental, based in Madison. Renters are responsible for arranging transport to and from their venue; in some cases, venues may be able to make arrangements with preceding or following venues if scheduling allows.
Proceeds from traveling exhibit rentals support the Society's ongoing outreach programs and activities.
Up to 4 weeks. Venues may schedule the display for more than 4 weeks for an additional fee.
Great Lakes Small Streams on Display
Student Activities
Browse the Great Lakes Small Streams Student Activity guide for cross-disciplinary classroom activities on the history of water resources in Wisconsin.
Other Traveling Displays
Browse other traveling displays currently available from the Wisconsin Historical Society.
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Last Updated: April 8, 2026
