Historic Objects
About Our Historic Objects
The Wisconsin Historical Society cares for more than half a million objects documenting the history of Wisconsin, the Great Lakes, and beyond. Our object collection consists of paintings, household goods, clothing, flags, musical instruments, political buttons, furniture, archaeology and so much more. Those objects not on display in a museum or historic site are available for research by appointment.
- Learning more about objects in our collection?
- Viewing an object in our collection?
- Researching an object in our collection?
Research
Whether you are charting your family’s history, engaging in academic research, or delving into a new hobby, the collections of the Society are ready for your exploration, with helpful guides and tools for your journey.
Search Our Digital CollectionsThe Society partners with First Nations to return Ancestral remains and cultural items. The Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) regulates this work. The law identifies which collections can be repatriated. It also restricts who can make requests for return. This pathway is only available to lineal descendants and appointed officials of federally recognized Tribes.
Please see the National NAGPRA Program's website and the United States Federal Register for more information on the law and its regulations.
NAGPRA inquiries and requests can be directed to the Society's NAGPRA Coordinator.
Wisconsin History Center
A landmark cultural destination designed to share the rich, vast, and varied stories of the people who have shaped the state. Featuring world-class exhibits, community gathering spaces, immersive moments, and interactive experiences, this landmark venue will showcase Wisconsin's impact on America and inspire exploration across all 72 counties.
Learn MoreCollections Care
Learn more about caring for collections
The Society strives to provide outstanding care for our collections. On this page we provide links to some resources for our patrons and other institutions to assist with caring for their collections as well.
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FAQs
Due to significant demands associated with developing the Wisconsin History Center, the Society has reduced capacity to handle loan requests. Therefore, we are not accepting new requests at this time. Our normal lending activities are scheduled to resume in fall 2027. We apologize for any inconvenience this moratorium may cause. Thank you in advance for your understanding.
The Society cannot provide information regarding appraisal values and does not offer appraisal services. To find a certified appraiser, you can visit the American Society of Appraisers website.
Professional conservators combine in-depth knowledge of science and art with extensive practical experience to provide sound, ethical preservation services for your art objects, artifacts, and other items of historic and cultural value.
The Society does not currently offer conservation services.
Patrons seeking conservation services or advice can begin their conservation research with the American Institute for Conservation.
Links to additional resources for conservation can be found on our collections care webpage.
Many resources offering advice for preserving various types of items from paper to photographs to historic objects. Links to some of those resources can be found on our collections care webpage.
If you're looking for information on preserving your historic building, the Society's State Historic Preservation Office has the resources to support you on your journey. Links to those resources can be found on our State Historic Preservation Office page.
Interested in
Archaeology?
The State Archaeology and Maritime Preservation Program permits and tracks archaeological sites across the state. Our State Archaeologist curates the archaeology collection at the Society.
State Archaeologist
Donate to The Society's Collections
Your Story is Wisconsin's Story
History is made every day, everywhere. Since 1846, contributions from people across the state have helped us fulfill our mission to collect, preserve and tell the stories of Wisconsin.
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