Discover the past. Embrace the Present.
Shape the Future.

To foster an understanding of the American experience
through the stories of Waukesha County.

Welcome to the Waukesha County

Historical Society & Museum

Since 1914 the Waukesha County Historical Society & Museum has preserved and shared the histories of our diverse community.  Starting with one room in the 1893 Courthouse at the corner of W. Main and East Ave. in downtown Waukesha, the museum and archive has grown to more than 15,000 artifacts and over a million documents.

Exhibits

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The Wizard of Waukesha – The Amazing True Story of Les Paul

Trails to Wak-shta

LUST – Love Triangle Goes Wrong

A Splendid Little War – Waukesha in the Spanish-American War

Closer to the Front – The Lives of Waukesha Women in the First World War

The Seeds we Sow – The Agricultural Legacies of Waukesha County

Upcoming Events

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WCHSM members provide vital support to serve our community with programs and exhibitions throughout the year.

Your membership today means more than ever. Thank you for preserving history in Waukesha County. Review Membership Levels, and Subscribe below to become a member today!

Become a Member

Reviews

County museums can be a mixed bag, but this one was quite delightful! Great exhibit on Les Paul, a Waukesha native, plus other interesting local highlights. Staff was friendly and helpful. We really enjoyed our visit!

Elizabeth D, Local Guide

I am a photographer doing some historical research on the City of Waukesha to photograph. I inquired about various subjects relating to historical landmarks throughout the city. I scheduled an appointment to see some historical data the week prior and when I arrived the staff was very helpful and friendly with several items of interest out on display for me to review.

RF, Local Guide

Loved looking at all the historical artifacts and reading the history behind them. The staff is very friendly. The Les Paul exhibit is wonderful!

Jack M, Local Guide

Absolutely charming. Great care has been taken to present historical items and ideas in a creative, engaging way. The Les Paul exhibit was very colorful and incredibly interesting. It was presented in a bright, colorful way that feels in line with many (larger) modern museums, the multimedia approach which presumably caters to younger people. So bring the kids! It’s not a huge overwhelming museum but there’s plenty to experience. I really like this balance.

JT, Visitor

Huelsman Family Research Center

Uncover the past in the Huelsman Family Research Center at the Waukesha County Historical Society, located in the former Waukesha County Courthouse complex, handicap accessible.

Explore some of WCHSM’s Historic Markers and our many communities with a fun-run style driving tour, answering questions and taking in the many sights along the way.

Download the booklet