A Digital Museum Created By You
Wisconsin 101 is a statewide, collaborative project exploring Wisconsin’s diverse, interconnected histories through objects. Learn more.
The Latest Objects and Stories
Increase Lapham and the Founding of the United States Weather Bureau
As immigration to Wisconsin swelled in the 1840s, so, too, did the state’s scientific and technological community, with innovations across industries ranging from agriculture and manufacturing to geology and environmental studies. Among Wisconsin’s first “pioneer …
OBJECT HISTORY: Lapham Peak Observation Tower
At first glance, you might recognize this iconic Southeastern Wisconsin tower. Yet, under its wooden beams lies a rich foundation of Wisconsin’s history, including one of the state’s first scientists and a state agency responsible …
OBJECT HISTORY: Ojibwe Presentation Pipe
This Ojibwe presentation pipe consists of two pieces: a pipe bowl and a pipe stem. It was most likely for spiritual ceremonies. According to the Wisconsin Historical Society, the pipe bowl is carved from heavy …
Tell a Story
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MUSEUM MINI TOURS
Find out a bit more about the docents’ favorite objects at Old World Wisconsin and the Wisconsin State Historical Museum & download lesson plans for your favorite museums around the state.
Mini tours Lesson plans
In the World & On the Map
“Teaching first-year students Wisconsin history through and with objects allowed for a deep and collaborative investigation of location, identity, and primary source research.”
— Krista Grensavitch, Instructor, UW-Milwaukee