Discovering the past.
Embracing the Present.
Shaping the Future.
Welcome to the Waukesha County
Historical Society & Museum
Historical Society & Museum
Since 1914, the Waukesha County Historical Society and Museum have 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 have grown to more than 15,000 artifacts and over a million documents.
Thank You for a Memorable Victorian Tea Gala
With heartfelt gratitude, we thank everyone who joined us for the Victorian Tea Gala honoring Mayor Shawn Reilly. It was a truly special afternoon filled with laughter, reflection, and community spirit.
From the delightful roast and spirited rebuttal to the generosity shown through our silent auction, your participation made the event both meaningful and successful. We are especially grateful to our sponsors, volunteers, and attendees whose support helps bring local history to life.
Because of you, the Waukesha County Historical Society & Museum can continue preserving and sharing the rich stories of our community—from the legacy of the Springs to the people who have shaped Waukesha.
Help Us Continue the Story
If the event inspired you, we encourage you to support our mission. Your donation helps us:
- Preserve historical collections
- Create engaging exhibits
- Offer educational programs for all ages
Every gift—large or small—makes a lasting impact.
Donate today and help keep Waukesha’s history alive.
The Les Paul Exhibit is once again OPEN after an enhancement of the exhibit. Stop down and see what’s new.
Click on the image above to hear Ellenbecker Investment Group Director of Community Relations, Jill Economou, speak with Waukesha County Historical Society & Museum’s Executive Director Nicki Ciurro and Waukesha County Community Fund’s Executive Director Melissa Baxter to learn more about the stories of Waukesha County, and how we are building a stronger community.
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!
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.
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.
Loved looking at all the historical artifacts and reading the history behind them. The staff is very friendly. The Les Paul exhibit is wonderful!
