About the Event
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Settle into the Walnut Room, located in Wade House’s Visitor Center on Highway 23, and prepare to learn, discuss and engage with captivating stories from celebrated authors and historians alike. From a deep-dive on the infamous wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald to a discussion on notable Wisconsin heroes who have shaped the state, the country and even the world, our history—and the speakers who share it—have countless exciting facts, secrets and stories to tell.
Every Timeless Tales Talk at Wade House includes a special presentation, a live question-and-answer segment and, often, an opportunity to purchase a book signed by the presenting author or authors. Learn more about each speaker and presentation dates below.
Saturday, Feb 21, 2026 | Dean Robbins presents Wisconsin Idols: 100 Heroes Who Changed the State, the World and Me
Jackie Robinson, Oprah Winfrey, Harrison Ford, Elvis Presley, Orson Welles—at first glance, these household names may seem unrelated to Wisconsin history. But in an engaging essay collection, Dean Robbins brings them—and many others—together, offering a unique perspective on legendary figures with often surprising connections to the state. Get a firsthand look at pictures and videos and hear humorous anecdotes as Robbins establishes Wisconsin as a notably influential crossroads for people who changed the world. Wisconsin Idols has been praised by Wisconsin Public Radio, the Wisconsin State Journal, Milwaukee Magazine, the Capital Times and WTMJ-TV, and was chosen as Book of the Month by both the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel and Madison Magazine.
Dean Robbins is a journalist who has contributed to USA Today, The New York Daily News, GRAMMY magazine, and other national media outlets, as well as serving as editor in chief of Isthmus and On Wisconsin magazine. He is also a children’s author whose books have appeared on many best-of-the-year lists, earning praise in the New York Times, Los Angeles Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal.
Cost:
Adults (18-64): $8
Teens (13-17): $8
Seniors (65+): $6
Children (5-12): $6
Children under 5: Free
Society members receive a 10% discount
BOOK TICKETS
About the Location
The presentations will take place in the Walnut Room within Wade House Visitor Center and Wesley W. Jung Carriage Museum, located at W7965 Highway 23, Greenbush, WI.
Wade House Historic Site
Visitor Center and Wesley W. Jung Carriage Museum
W7965 State Highway 23
Greenbush, WI 53026
Know Before You Go:
Parking is available at the Visitor Center.
Check in at the visitor center front desk for the presentation.
The Visitor Center is ADA Compliant with an elevator available for guests to use.
Water and soft drinks are available for purchase.
Restrooms are available.
Guests with additional mobility needs are encouraged to contact the site directly at 920-526-3271 or [email protected].
Have Questions?
For more information, please contact the box office at 608-264-4848 or [email protected]. Please call Wade House at 920-526-3271 if the box office is closed.
