Prairie du Chien Historical Society

05/21/2026

We had a wonderful group of young visitors explore the museums this week! It’s always exciting to see the next generation discovering the rich history of Prairie du Chien.

Did you know the roots of history run especially deep here when it comes to the Catholic Church? St. Gabriel’s Church, built in 1839, is recognized as Wisconsin’s oldest church — a remarkable reminder of the community’s early heritage and enduring faith.

05/20/2026

Prairie du Chien is full of fascinating connections to the past — and it’s always wonderful when descendants and family stories find their way back home. Thank you for stopping by and sharing this special piece of local history!

It was great to have Doug Appel from Conroe, Texas stop by the Welcome Center today. Doug's father was cousin to Mayme Cornelius. In 1979 Mayme donated the parcel of land on which the Welcome Center and Chamber of Commerce now sit.

05/16/2026

Today is opening day for the 2026 season at the Prairie du Chien Historical Society!

This year is especially meaningful as we celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Society's founding. We are excited to welcome guests back to explore our updated museums, browse the refreshed gift shop, and experience the rich history of Prairie du Chien.

Join us this season and help celebrate three decades of preserving and sharing our community’s remarkable story!

The museums located at 717 South Beaumont Road in Prairie du Chien will be opened daily Wednesday-Monday (closed Tuesdays) 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

05/12/2026

05/02/2026

👕 New Prairie du Chien Historical Society T-shirts are here!

Order yours today and pick it up at the Museum Visitor Center starting Opening Day — Saturday, May 16 (or anytime after).

✔️ Pickup at the Visitor Center
✔️ Shipping available for an additional fee
✔️ Limited pre-opening order window — don’t miss out!

T-shirts will also be available for purchase at the Visitor Center throughout the season.

We can’t wait to see you wearing them—and hope you’ll join us for the Raising of the Colors at 10:00 AM on May 16 🇺🇸

👇 Order link in the comments!

04/28/2026

Who would have thought that Prairie du Chien—then part of the Michigan Territory—would be the site of multiple international treaties?

Another addition to the Fort Crawford Museum is the long-anticipated Treaties of Prairie du Chien Exhibit.

These treaties were signed in Prairie du Chien between the United States and Native nations—the Sioux, Fox, Sac, Winnebago, Potawatomi, Menominee, Ioway, and Ottawa—in 1825, 1829, and 1830.

These agreements played a significant role in shaping federal Indian policy during the era of the Indian Removal Act of 1830. The proceedings were documented by artist James Otto Lewis, whose Aboriginal Portfolio features hand-colored lithographs of Native leaders who participated in the councils.

The new exhibit explores the historical context and impact of these treaties and includes original lithographs by Lewis.

Come see these depictions of multinational meetings when the museums of the Prairie du Chien Historical Society open on May 16, marking the Society’s 30th year.

Hours: 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., Wednesday through Monday (closed Tuesdays).

04/27/2026

Over the winter, the Prairie du Chien Historical Society has undertaken several important updates to our museums.

Today, we are highlighting the stove associated with Zachary Taylor. Long kept in storage, this piece was used while he was stationed at Fort Crawford.

The “stove” is actually a fireplace insert, manufactured by Woods, Stacker & Company of Stewart County, Tennessee. It later came into the possession of Charles Loomis Ingersoll, who installed it in the home he built in DeSoto. Ingersoll served as an enlisted soldier in the 5th Wisconsin Regiment during the Civil War before settling in the area.

Come visit the Fort Crawford Museum after we open on May 16, 2026, to learn the rest of the story behind this fascinating piece of local and national history.

04/12/2026

A special moment at Thursday’s History Talks presentation last week.

During the presentation, Cindy Noel shared insights into the mission and history of the Daughters of the American Revolution, highlighting the organization’s longstanding commitment to service and community. As part of that work, she discussed her involvement with the Quilts of Valor Foundation, which provides handmade quilts to veterans as a symbol of comfort and appreciation.

When Cindy asked if any veterans were present, Dennis Rule raised his hand. In a spontaneous and heartfelt moment, Cindy presented him with a Quilt of Valor on the spot. Dennis, who served with the Army’s 82nd Airborne Artillery, was warmly recognized by those in attendance.

We thank Dennis for his service and Cindy for her volunteer work, both with the DAR and the Prairie du Chien Historical Society!

03/22/2026

📽️ Now Available: March 12 Winter Speaker Series

Did you miss the program, or do you want to watch it again? We’re pleased to share the recording featuring Norb Aschom and Dale Klemme.

They discuss the history of Prairie du Chien’s 4th Ward, the flooding that reshaped the area, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers relocation project of the 1970s–80s.

▶️ Watch here: https://youtu.be/PnrxJKF4GAU

This program, part of the Prairie du Chien Historical Society's 2026 Winter Speaker Series, features a compelling look at a pivotal moment in Prairie du Chie...

02/09/2026

Henry Dodge Trivia Time!

Did you know Henry Dodge was not only Wisconsin Territory’s first governor, but also a lead miner, military commander, and U.S. Senator?

Fun question: What major conflict did Henry Dodge serve in before Wisconsin even became a territory — and how did it help shape his path to leadership?

Join the Prairie du Chien Historical Society on Thursday, February 12, at 7:00 p.m. at the Prairie du Chien Area Arts Center for an engaging talk to discover the answer and learn more about one of the most influential figures in our region’s early history. Admission is free — all are welcome!

Photo credit: Wisconsin Historical Society, Cogswell, William F., 1819-1903, Henry Dodge, WHS Museum Collection, 2613.