FRIENDS offers everyone a way to experience Wisconsin history.

FOUNDATION OF THE FRIENDS OF THE WISCONSIN HISTORICAL SOCIETY:

In 1950, Ruth De Young Kohler accomplished her historic dream–she held the first meeting of the Women’s Auxiliary of the Wisconsin Historical Society, which at that time was celebrating the 150th anniversary of its inception. Ruth’s organization lives on as the Friends of the Wisconsin Historical Society, not just for women any longer.

In 2020 the FWHS celebrated its 70th year.

MISSION, GUIDING PRINCIPLES, & PURPOSE
OF THE FRIENDS OF THE WISCONSIN HISTORICAL SOCIETY:

Mission:

The FRIENDS of the Wisconsin Historical Society is an independent nonprofit organization whose sole purpose is to assist and support the Wisconsin Historical Society and its programs and mission, and to preserve and promote Wisconsin history.

Guiding Principles:

To reach out and partner with the broadest possible public

To present and promote sound and authentic history

To share our riches of staff, collections, and services in ways that captivate and respect our many audiences

To collect and safeguard evidence of our diverse heritage according to the highest standards of stewardship

PURPOSE OF THE FRIENDS OF THE
WISCONSIN HISTORICAL SOCIETY:

The business and purpose of the corporation shall be: To assist the Wisconsin Historical Society in its program of conserving, advancing, and disseminating knowledge in the field of Wisconsin history, and to supplement the activities of the Wisconsin Historical Society in such ways as may be mutually agreed upon and developed by the Society and this corporation.

OBJECTIVES OF THE FRIENDS OF
THE WISCONSIN HISTORICAL SOCIETY:

To increase public awareness and support of the Wisconsin Historical Society

To promote public awareness of the history of Wisconsin

To increase statewide membership in the FRIENDS of the Wisconsin Historical Society and in the Historical Society through educational programs

To provide support for special projects of the Wisconsin Historical Society

TO ACCOMPLISH THESE OBJECTIVES
THE FRIENDS SPONSOR:

Educational tours, luncheons, and other events

Public exhibits or programs pertaining to Wisconsin history

A newsletter

Projects in cooperation with local history groups and other Friends groups, as appropriate