What do we have in store for the 2025 Local History & Historic Preservation Conference?

In this new opportunity for 2025, hop on a bus for an educational excursion to a local historical site! An additional fee of $20 per person and advanced registration are required to participate. Please note that there is no membership discount for excursions, as costs cover transport. Capacity is limited! All excursions will run from 1:30 to 4 pm on Thursday, October 16.

For a full presentation schedule timeline and additional details:

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Excursion Highlights: Thursday, October 16

H.H. Bennett Studio Experience

Thursday, October 16, 1:30 – 4 PM

Capacity: 20

Through this excursion experience, you'll learn more about the Bennett family within the building in which they worked and the important role photography played in making the Wisconsin Dells area “famous.” In the Bennett family’s 1875 historic photography studio, you will witness firsthand where and how portraits were “struck.” You'll discover the photos that brought the landscape of the Dells to a national audience and how they are a time capsule to a past that is no longer visible today.

The Restoration of Ringlingville Building Tours

Thursday, October 16, 1:30 – 4 PM

Capacity: 35

Circus World is a Wisconsin Historical Society cultural resource that includes the original winter headquarters buildings of the Ringling Brothers Circus (1884-1918), known as Ringlingville. The buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated a National Historic Landmark. It is a unique site, representing not only the achievements and success of the brothers, but also a record of the great American Circus. With support from the Save America’s Treasures Grant program and State of Wisconsin funding, the Society has taken on several restoration projects to bring the site back to its 1915 period of significance. This excursion will provide a private tour with the architects and state facility managers to explore the recently constructed Ringing Brothers Office Building, the under-construction Wild Animal House #2, and the in-progress design project of the Baggage Horse Barn.

Sacred Sites Tour

Thursday, October 16, 1:30 – 4 PM

Capacity: 35

Man Mound is the only effigy mound in the state with National Historic Landmark status; it is also believed to be the only mound of its type left in existence. The ground it sits on was purchased in 1907 and is currently owned by the Sauk County Historical Society (SCHS) and managed in partnership with the Sauk County Parks Department. Visit the mound and learn about its history, preservation, and public-private management. Nearby is the Yellow Thunder Memorial, which was constructed by SCHS in 1909 to honor Chief Wakąjaziga and his spouse, Haakejanįheįga. Both were resistance leaders during the 34-year period of forced Ho-Chunk removals. The memorial site has been transformed with help from the Sauk County Parks department with prairie plantings, new interpretive signage, and a sculpture created by Ho-Chunk artist Chloris Lowe III.

Join us at the Local History & Historic Preservation Conference! Connect with fellow history enthusiasts, explore unique tours, and dive deep into our region's rich heritage. Don't miss this chance to be part of something truly special—reserve your spot today!

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Any questions? Please contact lhhpconference@wisconsinhistory.org.