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Wednesday 10am - 12pm Friday 1pm - 3pm Saturday 1pm - 3pm

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Historical Society of Walworth and Big Foot Prairie

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Historical Society of Walworth and Big Foot Prairie

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The goal of the Historical society is to collect and preserve the history of Walworth and the adjoining Big Foot Prairie.

Historical Society of Walworth and Bigfoot Prairie

10/22/2026

Next program for the Historical Society of Walworth and Big Foot Prairie is at 1:30 pm, Thursday, October 22, 2026 at Walworth Memorial Library. The program will take a look back at the history of the Big Foot Golf Range, as presented by the Rasmussen Family. The public is welcomed to attend.

09/18/2026

Historical Society Visits Stella’s Lounge
Recently members and guests of the Historical Society of Walworth and Big Foot Prairie had the pleasure of visiting the former Walworth Lanes, also known as 10-Pin Pub and soon to be “Stella’s Lounge”. As the historical society does so well, everyone listened tentatively to the history of the site at 121 Kenosha Street, Walworth. From the early 1920’s construction of the original building (first a garage, then a Ford dealership) to the first bowling alley in 1941, Joyce Pagel and Wayne Johnson share important dates and memories.
Memories always ignite more memories though and this evening was no exception since so many members of the historical society have frequented the bowling alley at some time through the years. The stories shared were priceless. Tales of friends and neighbors, special occasions, bowling lane antics and even some great bowling accomplishments, they could have lasted all night long.
But now everyone is looking to the future of this building. Even though it has been a lengthy renovation filled with unexpected obstacles, Frank and Ashley Stellato are still standing and smiling with anticipation! They are getting excited to open “Stella’s Lounge” before the end of the year.
The Stellatos designed Stella’s Lounge to be a gathering place for Walworth and the surrounding communities; a place for celebrations that feels like home, where people laugh and make new memories. Inspired by their own memories of family gatherings, Frank and Ashley want to create comfort and nostalgia in Stella’s Lounge. The venue will include a sports lounge and bar with gaming counsels, an entertainment venue that will offer music and comedy shows and a special feature they will call the Embers Room, a 1950’s style smoking and cigar lounge.
In a most fitting and well-done conclusion to the evening, Ashley herself, took the microphone on the stage that will be finished with the boards of the former bowling lanes, and sang “Dream of Little Dream”. Needless to say, it was a very enjoyable evening for everyone. Now we look forward to returning when the Stellatos officially open Stella’s Lounge.

06/22/2026

When is peak wedding season? No doubt that many people will say June. But why? What is so special about June?
During ancient times, it was believed that June got its name from Juno, the Roman goddess of marriage and childbirth. Historically, tying the knot during Juno’s month was thought to bring couples long-lasting happiness and prosperity. Any June couples care to testify to that?
In more current times however, October is tied with, or even slightly more popular than, June. More pleasant weather, seasonal colors and travel flexibility seem to be factors in this decision. What month did you choose for your life’s chronicle?
Whether you honor the anniversary of your own wedding, or are planning your up-coming nuptial, or maybe even celebrating the dissolution of “your wedded bliss”, the Historical Society of Walworth and Big Foot Prairie is pleased to share the local history of weddings, bridal fashions, and cherished traditions anytime of the year.
Since summer has now officially arrived and everyone is happy to be out and about, enjoying the warm sunshine, why not grab your favorite wandering companion and visit the Historical Society’s museum. Just be sure to check out the wedding and bridal exhibit. You may see the wedding gown or other wedding memorabilia belonging a local friend or neighbor.
The Historical Society of Walworth and Big Foot Prairie Museum is located at 101 Maple Street, Walworth, Wisconsin, in the former Walworth Memorial Library building. The museum is open Wednesdays from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon and Fridays and Saturdays from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.

05/21/2026

Following a winter that seemed like it would never end, we suddenly find ourselves thinking about the upcoming commemorations of Memorial Day. This is a perfect time to visit the museum of the Historical Society of Walworth and Big Foot Prairie.

The History of Memorial Day

Memorial Day originated in the years following the Civil War. Originally called Decoration Day, it was officially proclaimed on May 5, 1868, by General John A. Logan and first observed on May 30, 1868, as a day to decorate the graves of fallen Union soldiers with flowers.

The proclamation called on Americans “to observe Memorial Day by praying, according to their individual religious faith, for permanent peace.”

In 1966, Congress officially recognized a century of Memorial Day observances held in Waterloo, which had been proclaimed by President Lyndon B. Johnson as the birthplace of Memorial Day. Shortly afterward, the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, enacted in 1968 and effective in 1971, designated Memorial Day as a national holiday and moved its observance from May 30 to the last Monday in May.

Museum Display

The Historical Society’s museum features a fascinating display of military uniforms and armed forces artifacts, offering an eye-opening glimpse into the lives of local men and women who served our country long ago.

As Memorial Day approaches, consider adding a visit to the museum and taking time to reflect on and appreciate our community’s military history and traditions of remembrance. The museum is open Wednesdays from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon and Fridays and Saturdays from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. What a meaningful way to pay homage to those who served our country.
The Historical Society of Walworth and Big Foot Prairie is located at 101 Maple Street, Walworth, WI 53184 in the former Walworth Memorial Library building.

05/05/2026

A Different Look
Behind current BP gas station on South Main Street in Walworth. Unfortunately the date and photographer are unknown.
If you zoom in, you will see there are figures in front of the house. Does anyone know anything about this photo, house, or time period? Can you imagine life in Walworth back then?
Thanks to Fred Noer for sharing this photo and glimpse into our community's past.

04/21/2026

Rick Schoenbeck recently shared his story of Reproduction Provisions with the Historical Society of Walworth and Big Foot Prairie, one that few people know and even fewer would ever expect.
It all started with “A.I.” While that term is a buzzword today, Rick’s introduction to A.I. came long before A.I. was a technological concept. In this case, A.I. refers to artificial insemination, a well-established practice in the livestock industry. The history of Reproduction Provisions and Rick’s introduction into artificial insemination is a very interesting story indeed, and it continues to grow. Reproduction Provisions is now the third largest reproduction supply company in the world.
In addition to the manufacturing facility located at the former Walworth Woodcraft and Slim’s Tractor Service, Rick and Debbie also own and operate Main Street Country Store and The Gathering Grounds. This popular destination for pet food and supplies, gifts, their own farm-raised meat and eggs along with specialty coffee drinks and Chocolate Shoppe ice cream, stands at the former location of Stu Peterson’s Service Station. Local historians will enjoy knowing that the Schoenbecks took down two buildings at Peterson’s Service Station only to put them back up again, this time on their farm near Hebron, IL, where they still serve the farm operations today.
And there’s more to come. Rick and Debbie are excited to share their plans to build a new facility across from Mecum Auctions later this year. The space will house their business offices, introduce a farm-to-table concept, and offer expanded gathering space for the community.
Their goal is simple: to create something special and unique for Walworth and the surrounding area.

04/10/2026

Then… and Now
Do you remember Peterson’s Service Station on S Main Street in Walworth—across from Subway on Hwy 14? Or the well-known cabinet maker next door, Walworth Woodcraft? These familiar places were once true icons in the community. Though they might live on in our memories, the scene today looks quite different.
At first glance, it may be hard to visualize the old service station. But close your eyes and think back 34 years, and you can almost see Stu Peterson working on countless cars, just as he was at this very spot. Now open your eyes and fast forward to today!

Join in the memories as the Historical Society of Walworth and Big Foot Prairie takes a closer look at this transformation. The next program will feature Rick Schoenbeck of Main Street Country Store and Reproduction Resources, who will share how this location has evolved over the past three decades—and what lies ahead.
The program begins at 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 16, 2026, in the Walworth Memorial Library meeting room (525 Kenosha St, Walworth). As always, Historical Society programs are free and open to the public.
Come discover how a local landmark has transformed into an international business—right here in our hometown of Walworth. Hope to see you Thursday!

04/08/2026

This vintage sign, now on display at the Historical Society of Walworth and Big Foot Prairie Museum, is sure to bring back some great memories.

Mr. Anthony’s was once located just three miles northwest of Walworth on Highway 14, at the intersection of Brick School Road and Willow Bend Road. While the building has been gone for years, it was a favorite gathering spot for locals—especially teenagers—meeting up with friends on weekends or after a game. Owned and operated by Mr. Anthony O’Dierno and his family, it was more than just a pizza place… it was a place where memories were made.

Do you have a favorite memory of Mr. Anthony’s? We’d love to hear it—share a story or two!

The Historical Society Museum, located at 101 Maple Street in Walworth, is open to the public every Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, and Fridays and Saturdays from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. Invite a friend to join you for a visit and enjoy the rich history—and so many memories—of our community. It’s sure to be time well spent. (Okay, now I'm hungry for a pizza!)

Address

101 Maple Street
Walworth, WI
53184

Opening Hours

Wednesday	10am - 12pm
Friday	1pm - 3pm
Saturday	1pm - 3pm

Telephone

+12623943309

Website

facebook.com

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