The Wisconsin Historical Society is a statewide organization dedicated to connecting people with the past by collecting, preserving, and sharing Wisconsin’s stories. It makes historical perspective accessible through research services, public programs, educational resources, publications, and destinations across the state. Researchers can explore library and archival materials, digital collections, historic images, objects, and family-history resources, with support for genealogy and other inquiries.

The Society also offers books and articles, classroom lesson plans, field trips, civics education, National History Day resources, and professional development for teachers. Visitors can experience historic sites and museums, including Old World Wisconsin, Circus World, and Wade House, and attend events, lectures, tours, and traveling displays. Its preservation work includes guidance on historic properties, registers, maritime archaeology, grants, and cultural resource services.

The Society partners with First Nations, elected officials, educators, and a network of more than 400 local history affiliates. Membership offers benefits such as admission to 12 historic sites, a Wisconsin Magazine of History subscription, discounts, and access to partner organizations