Driven by our Mission
The Manitowoc County Historical Society, formed in 1906, is one of the oldest historical societies in Wisconsin. It is also one of the earliest societies to become an affiliate of the State Historical Society of Wisconsin.
Our Mission:
The Manitowoc County Historical Society collects, interprets, preserves, and promotes the history and heritage of Manitowoc County, Wisconsin, in order to educate the public and heighten its understanding and appreciation of the past as it proceeds into the future.
Our Vision:
Our Manitowoc County Historical Society inspires curiosity and fosters lifelong learning about Manitowoc County’s past by providing engaging, individualized and unique experiences.
Our Mission at Work
Nestled in the scenic rolling Ice Age Kettle Moraine countryside of Eastern Wisconsin, the Manitowoc County Historical Society is a museum of living history. Feel the heat from the blacksmith's forge, take part in one-room school lessons, and find your ancestor's name in our archives.
This 60-acre interpretive museum of local history features a Welcome Center with local history exhibits and research services and the outdoor Pinecrest Historical Village - a collection of over 25 historic buildings with period furnishings from Manitowoc County's early settlers.
McAllister House Welcome Center
The McAllister house is believed to be the oldest standing farmhouse in Manitowoc County. Originally located on Plank Road in Manitowoc Rapids, the home was built by Hiram McAllister, one of the first settlers of Manitowoc County who came to the area in 1837. The building includes local history exhibits, research library and archives, as well as the Society's administrative offices.
Pinecrest Historical Village
It was in 1969 that a 40 acre farmfield was donated by Hugo and Eleanor Vetting to create a historical village. Comprised of over 30 structures from throughout Manitowoc County, Pinecrest Historical Village is a journey through our community’s past from about 1850 to 1915.
Heirloom Gardens
Heirloom gardens add another dimension to your museum experience. Eye-catching blossoms, fragrant herbs, luscious fruits and rows upon rows of colorful vegetables all vie for your attention, but they're also used regularly by village interpreters for preparing meals in the historic kitchens, dyeing fibers, medicinal preparations as well as decorations and craft projects.