Grant Sheds Light on Often Overlooked Stories

Iam a Door County local with a passion for history. I have recently received my master’s degree in Museum Studies at the University of Washington-Seattle and have returned to the area to work with the Door County Historical Society as the Curator and Interpretation Coordinator. Until I begin full time in this capacity in April, I have been working as a consultant on a very important grant from the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

Titled Door County’s First Peoples, this grant works to compile research on and form relationships with indigenous tribes that had a significant impact on Door County history. Information gained will be made available through both an outdoor, permanent exhibition on the DCHS grounds of Heritage Village and a written packet to be accessed through DCHS and the Door County Library.

Door County’s First Peoples will tell the stories of Wisconsin native tribes throughout history, from hunter gatherer groups during the Ice Age to the exploration of current cultural initiatives on nearby reservations. While Door County has a wealth of information available about Euro American settlers, there is next to nothing regarding the area’s indigenous ancestors and residents.

My research has brought me across the internet, to forgotten corners of the interlibrary loan system, and throughout the state to meet with tribal representatives and visit exhibitions that focus on this topic. I have been continuously reminded of how little I knew of

Dinner Programs (continued)

integral part of the Lighthouse Committee and serves at the Baileys Harbor Range Lights. Together, Ann and Ed interpret Julia and Captain Duclon for many events. Laurie Baum is an active group member, also involved with the Lighthouse.

The May dinner and program will be at the Door County Fire Company, 38 S. Third Ave., Sturgeon Bay, on May 22. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with dinner at 6:00 p.m. and program to follow. The menu includes chicken, stuffing, potatoes, veggies, rolls, dessert, coffee and lemonade. Cost is $30 ($25 for DCHS members). Please register by May 15.

these vital cultures and traditions and have been so grateful to learn. Door County needs this information now more than ever, and it is my sincere hope that as many people as possible can engage with the exhibition and informational packet once they are finished.

Look for updates on exhibition installation coming later this year!

Members and guests can look forward to future Monday evening dinner meetings exploring the history of Horseshoe Bay Farms, the impact of the Niagara Escarpment, the legacy of the Door County Fair, and even a Door County-inspired Trivia Challenge!

You can register via USPS (see the order form on page 9), online (doorcountyhistoricalsociety.org), or over the phone (920-421-2332.)

See you soon!

by Julie Gebauer