History Happens Here
Wisconsin’s New History Center
The Wisconsin Historical Society is bringing a new, 21st-century history center and cultural attraction to the people of Wisconsin and beyond.
Designed to be a welcoming beacon of inspiration and exploration, the new center set on Wisconsin’s Capitol Square in Madison will reflect a modern approach to sharing history and connecting communities.
Iconic Location
The new history center will be located on Wisconsin’s Capitol Square in Madison, contributing to a thriving cultural district and offering a convenient location for school groups visiting from around the state.
Visit Us Now!
During construction of the history center, the History Maker Space at US Bank Plaza on Capitol Square will allow for pop-up exhibits, author talks, public programs and history center sneak peeks!
We continue to welcome students and community members into the iconic Library Reading Room and archives at the historic Wisconsin Historical Society headquarters building in Madison, which opened in 1900.
Recent News
Historical Society Preps Construction Site
We’ve begun preparing the construction site on the Wisconsin State Capitol building square for the Wisconsin History Center…
History Makers Tour and Space
The History Makers Tour kicks off this month in conjunction with the public launch of the History Maker Space on Capitol Square in Madison…
First Look Inside New History Center
We’re excited to share a first look inside the new state-of-the-art history center that is expected to be completed in late 2026…
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The History of a Museum
The Wisconsin Historical Museum opened in 1986, at the top of State Street on Madison’s Capitol Square. The building was converted from an old hardware store.
Explore the exhibits that once filled this museum and learn more about it’s history.
Come join us on January 18th at the History Makers Space to enter a polkaverse full of singalongs, trivia, music, crafts and dancing in celebration of National Polka Month!
Join six-time polka hall of fame award winner and renowned accordion player Mike Schneider as we celebrate “the happiest music on earth” with a memorable afternoon full of out-of-this-world fun for the whole family. Don’t forget ... See MoreSee Less
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Check out Wisconsin’s dance traditions with "We Like to Kick Up Our Heels", in Baraboo until April 3rd!
Here in Wisconsin, people come together across cultures with dance. The state has a long history of supporting the art form as a means of social and personal expression. Many folk dances come from our vibrant immigrant communities, including Mexican, Bavarian, Norwegian, Swedish, Scottish, Irish ... See MoreSee Less
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