Built in 1882, the Hearthstone House operated using the first system of central electricity designed by Thomas Edison and it was the first private residence in the nation powered through hydroelectricity. The house was originally …
Arts & Entertainment
OBJECT HISTORY: Hearthstone House Chandelier
Known as Edison Light Fixtures, the original lighting fixtures of Appleton’s Hearthstone House, were created by Bergmann and Co., in association with the Edison Company for Isolated Lighting, out of New York. They designed the …
The Fish Boil Tradition
Familiar to many Wisconsinites, the Door County fish boil is more than just a cookout, it is a social experience. It begins when guests arrive early to sit outside around a crackling fire, where they …
OBJECT HISTORY: Two-sided Spork
The Door County fish boil is a culinary event local to Northern Wisconsin and it involves a few custom tools not found anywhere else. The Master Boiler cooks a meal of fish, potatoes, and vegetables …
OBJECT HISTORY: Paramount Records Power Wheel
Located near the heart of Grafton, a rusted power wheel sits on the steep west bank of the Milwaukee River. Despite its corroded appearance, this metal device once provided power to an entire factory responsible …
OBJECT HISTORY: Aztalan Copper Maskettes
Found at the Aztalan archaeological site in southeastern Wisconsin, these small copper artifacts were most likely used as ornate jewelry.[1] Specifically, Mississipian people likely wore the mask-shaped copper designs as earrings. Although Native Americans seldom …
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 …
OBJECT HISTORY: Slovak Catholic Altar
During the 19th and early 20th century, immigrants from all across Europe began coming to Wisconsin. Some had heard of economic opportunity from industries like mining, logging, or farming. Some were being treated unfairly in …
OBJECT HISTORY: Jar of Marbles
Today the Wisconsin State Fair is full of attractions, rides, and great food, but in its early years it was meant to be a place for farmers to gather and share ideas about the agricultural …
OBJECT HISTORY: Racine Belles Movie Costume
This Racine Belles costume was worn in the 1992 film “A League of Their Own.” The film focused on the Rockford (Illinois) Peaches, tracking a season in the All-American Girls’ Professional Baseball League. The Peaches played the Belles several times during the film.