Discover the Birthplace of Wisconsin Government
Madison has long been Wisconsin’s capital city, but the first 40 laws were made 50 miles southwest, here in Belmont. Welcome to Wisconsin’s First Capitol, where for just 46 days in 1836 representatives met to lay the foundation for our state’s government. Immerse yourself in the world of these founders, walking through the buildings and rooms where these important decisions were made.
Start your history road trip!
Pick up your 2024 Member PastPort and start collecting stamps when you visit First Capitol! Redeem your stamps for discounts or even a free year of membership! Not a member? Join today to get in on the fun.
FIELD TRIPS & GROUP TOURS
Field Trips
The best day of your school year awaits! Don’t just read about history, experience it! Field Trips at the Wisconsin Historical Society’s historic sites and museums allow students to step into the worlds they’re studying through fun adventures and engaging experiences around the state for grades k-12.
Group Tours
Travel Together Through Time and bring your group tour to the Wisconsin Historical Society’s sites and museums. Experience the worlds and wonders of Wisconsin’s past. Book your group tour today! Tours include private guide(s) that can be customized to meet the needs and interests of your group.
Get the Best Deal in History
Wisconsin Historical Society members receive unlimited free admission to our 11 historic sites and museums, a complimentary annual subscription to the Wisconsin Magazine of History, merchandise discounts and more. Join at the Family level and above for added benefits and discounts at over 1,200 organizations nationwide!
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First Capitol
Discover the rugged origins of the first capitol of Wisconsin Territory, where legislators laid down the framework for the current state government.
Happy Independence Day!
We are open today, Thursday, July 4 for the holiday! Come on over between 10am - 4pm to learn about Wisconsin territorial history. ... See MoreSee Less
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First Capitol will be open tomorrow, Thursday, July 4 for Independence Day from 10am - 4pm. Stop by for a visit! ... See MoreSee Less
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We've been busy at First Capitol getting ready to open for the 2024 season! We recently had a new fence installed, and this week two new cedar shake roofs were completed. On the backs of each building, the accessible ramps were redone and painted.
Check all the work out when we open tomorrow Saturday, May 25 at 10am. ... See MoreSee Less
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