People looking at a display with a glass case including old artifacts

See You in Spring 2027!

Thanks for another great season! We reopen for visitors in May 2027. Until then, help sustain these treasured places and ensure that they can continue transporting guests back in time for years to come.

See You in Spring 2027!

Thanks for another great season! We reopen for visitors in May 2027. Until then, help sustain these treasured places and ensure that they can continue transporting guests back in time for years to come.

Kids standing in front of a building at First Capitol

Discover the Birthplace of Wisconsin Government 

Madison has long been Wisconsinโ€™s capital city, but the first 42 laws were made 50 miles southwest, here in Belmont. Welcome to Wisconsinโ€™s First Capitol, where for just 46 days in 1836 representatives met to lay the foundation for our stateโ€™s government. Immerse yourself in the world of these founders, walking through the buildings and rooms where these important decisions were made. 


FIELD TRIPS & GROUP TOURS

two boys and their mother looking at a display

Field Trips

The best day of your school year awaits! Donโ€™t just read about history, experience it! Field Trips at the Wisconsin Historical Societyโ€™s historic sites and museums allow students to step into the worlds theyโ€™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

All Wisconsin Historical Society members enjoy unlimitedย free admissionย to our 11 historic sites and museums, exclusive merchandise and special event discounts, a complimentary annual subscription to the Wisconsin Magazine of History and more. Join at the Family level and above for added benefits and discounts at over 1,200 organizations nationwide!ย 


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First Capitol

First Capitol

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Discover the rugged origins of the first capitol of Wisconsin Territory, where legislators laid down the framework for the current state government.

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Join us this, Friday, July 17, for our Behind the Scenes tour! This 2 hour tour takes visitors through rooms and buildings usually off limits to visitors. This tour will focus on Bob and Edgarโ€™s private life at Pendarvis from 1935-1970 and how they were able to make a small Cornish cottage into a nationally renowned restaurant.

Click here to book your tickets: wihist.org/4ebPmRA
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2 months ago

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That would be very interesting !!

Thanks to everyone who came out to First Capitol yesterday for a reading of the Declaration of Independence! The reading occurred at the same time as other readings across the country to celebrate the anniversary of the first public reading of the Declaration in Philadelphia.

Our very own Patriot Glenn did a great job delivering the address.
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2 months ago