Great Lakes Small Streams: How Water Shapes Wisconsin | Wisconsin Historical Society

About this event

Explore this water-themed traveling display that showcases Wisconsin’s long relationship with water and the impact we have had on our waterways

It is impossible to fully understand Wisconsin – its history, culture and prospects for the future – without an appreciation of water’s power to create opportunities, influence decisions and shape the events that become our shared story. To experience and fully appreciate life in Wisconsin today, and to make decisions that will chart the course of our future, it is essential for Wisconsin residents and students to understand the historical role water played to shape our land, economy, culture and spirit.

The exhibit will teach audiences about our relationship with water as a state. The exhibit will place many of our current concerns in a historical context and show how our state was changed over time by the force of water. Visitors will see the consequences—good and bad—of past decisions and will be challenged to incorporate insights they gain into actions that can secure a more hopeful future for all of us regarding water.

Learn more and plan your visit

The Wisconsin History Makers Tour will bring history directly to local communities in every region of the state through pop-up exhibits, object displays, public programs, outdoor installations, and other activities.