The Wittenberg Area Historical Society hopes to create something new to preserve the past.
For more than 50 years, its museum has been the schoolhouse built by St. Paul Lutheran Church in 1904. When the society purchased the property, the stated intent was to preserve the landmark building in its original one-room schoolhouse design. However, the passage of time and the growth of the museum’s collection have presented new challenges that call for innovation.
“While the building itself remains structurally sound, aging heating, plumbing and electrical systems severely limit its usability, particularly during the winter,” said Josh Powers, of the historical society. “The current space is also struggling to accommodate the society’s expanding collection of historical items, documents and photographs. These issues, combined with the lack of handicapped accessibility on both the main floor and the basement, have made it difficult to fulfill the society’s mission of providing an inclusive and functional research space for the public.”
After looking at possible solutions, the society has announced plans for a new building to be constructed adjacent to the original schoolhouse. This new facility will house many of the society’s climate sensitive documents, photographs and displays, while also providing a dedicated workspace for visitors and museum staff. A central open area in the new building will serve dual purposes, accommodating museum events and temporary displays.
The schoolhouse itself will remain a vital part of the museum’s identity, with its main floor made handicapped accessible.
The society has received an offer of pro bono architectural services from Minneapolis-based architect and architectural designer Beth Koeppel, a Wittenberg-Birnamwood High School graduate.
“With this expert guidance and the support of the community, the society hopes to ensure the past remains an important part of the community’s future,” Powers said.
To share their vision and plans, the Wittenberg Area Historical Society will host a special event and fundraiser from 6-9 p.m. Feb. 21 at the Little White Chapel, 400 E. Front St., another historic gem in the Wittenberg area.
This gathering will provide an opportunity for the public to learn more about the project and how they can support it.
Tickets are $30 each, and attendees must be 21 or older to attend. Harpist Linda Cannon will provide entertainment. There will also be beer, wine, hors d’oeuvres, charcuterie, raffle baskets and 50/50 raffles.
A limited number of tickets for the event are available at Refuel Nutrition, Shops on Grand and the Wittenberg Area Historical Society’s Facebook page.
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