Door County Historical Society newsletter - Quarter 3 2003

Door County Historical Society

The Door County Historical Society strives to collect, maintain and share the history and heritage of Door County through preservation, education and programming.

Well, for an organization specializing in history, I was almost history myself!

I’m now back from two months in the hospital in Milwaukee and Sturgeon Bay. Modern medicine is amazing. My mother’s transplanted kidney continues to keep me alive for almost 29 years and I have undergone hip replacements, back surgeries, lens replacements in my eyes, and other procedures over the years. You could say I am made up of “replacement parts”. Thank you for the prayers and well wishes!

Luckily we have a wonderful board and members willing to pitch in so our work goes on.

The Eagle Bluff Lighthouse is open and off to a great year with Wendy Wagner, our new Site Manager. We are fully staffed and have the help of several volunteers. Please consider adding your name to that list.

The Historic Village had a great opening in May. Michaela Kraft, our Curator and Interpretations Coordinator, has a wonderful lineup of programs each

fine job on the First Peoples exhibit that will soon be installed. Thursdays are also special at Heritage Village with Justin the Journeyman and our blacksmith Rolf Olsen providing live demonstrations.

Thanks to our Village Committee we have taken care of several maintenance projects. Bill Hartel constructed new steps for the Greene Store and the bee problem in the Warren House and water problems in the lower levels of some of our buildings are were addressed.

Attendance at our monthly dinner programs has increased and the program committee has put together another great lineup.

That’s all for now. I look forward to seeing you at one of our upcoming events!

Upcoming Dinner Programs

Join us for an evening of enlightenment, camaraderie, and a celebration of our shared heritage. We look forward to welcoming you. Please feel free to invite friends come together as a community to embrace our local history.

July 24—History of the Hickey Brothers, Baileys Harbor Fishing Company, The Log Den, Egg Harbor

From fishing with hooks, to gill and pond nets, to processing fish and developing a retail business, the company is also involved in Hickey Brothers Research, LLC. Carin and Todd Stuth expanded the business in the 2000’s. Today, their brand is The Baileys Harbor Fish Company. The company is active in fishing, processing, selling and research.

Enjoy a dinner of pork loin with cherry sauce over rice, veggies, rolls, ice cream, coffee, milk and iced tea. Then, listen as the Hickey family presents the local history of their fishing careers including four generations, beginning in the mid-1800’s.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with dinner at 6:00 p.m., and the program to follow. Cost for the meal and program is $40 for members and $45 for guests. Reservations

August 28 The History of the Door County Fair, Birmingham’s, Sturgeon Bay

The Door County Fair was established in 1871, with traditions that any family can enjoy. Grandstand attractions include stock car races, a demolition derby, and motorcycle racing. Carnival rides, concession stands and exceptional bands fill the fair midway. Hundreds of

Monday, Jul 24 6 p.m.

Hickey Brothers Baileys Harbor Fish Company

The Log Den, Egg Harbor

Monday Aug 28 6 p.m.

Door County Fair

Birmingham's, Sturgeon Bay

Monday, Sep 25 6 p.m.

Door County Trivia!

Leatham Lodge, Sturgeon Bay

entries showcase the talents of Door County exhibitors each year. Learn the rich history of the fair for the past 150+ years.

The dinner will be family style baked chicken and ham, mashed potatoes, stuffing, coleslaw, cranberries, gravy, rolls and butter and cherry torte. The cost for the meal and program is $25 for members and $30 for guests. Please reserve your spot by August 21. Capacity is 60 for the dining room, therefore respond early. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with dinner at 6 p.m., and the program to follow.

September 25 Door County Trivia!, Lodge at Leathem Smith, Sturgeon Bay

Test your knowledge of Door County Trivia in a fun atmosphere, hosted by our own Michaela Kraft. Participate or listen and learn some facts along the way!

A dinner buffet of chicken and pork with the fixings will be served. The cost for the evening will be $30 for members and $35 for guests. Reservations are due by September 18. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with dinner at 6 p.m. and the trivia game with prizes to follow. Look forward to an interesting and entertaining evening! Meetings in the future include the History of Glass Blowing with Jeremy Popelka at The Mill in Sturgeon Bay, on October 23. Our annual DCHS meeting will be on November 27, at Prince of Peace Church in Sturgeon Bay. Jason Palmer with The Peninsula Symphonic Band will present the history of the group with musical selections.

Hope to see you soon!

Monday, Oct 23 6 p.m.

The History of Glass Blowing

The Mill, Sturgeon Bay

Monday, Nov 27 6 p.m.

Annual Meeting

Peninsula Symphonic Band

Prince of Peace Church, Sturgeon Bay

* Please note: program topics and locations are subject to change.

What Did You Miss?

The May dinner program was held on Monday, May 22, 2023, at the Door County Firehouse on Third Avenue in Sturgeon Bay. The dessert was scrumptious lighthouse cookies hand-crafted by Jan Livingston.

The title of the evening was the Family Matters: The Davenports, the Duclons, and Sister Lighthouses. Three speakers regaled the audience with their own look at Eagle Bluff Lighthouse. Each presentation was fascinating and very different from the others!

First we heard from Laurie Baum who spent many hours researching the lives of William and Julia (Davenport) Duclon, as well as the lives of their relatives. Julia’s father, Ambrose Davenport Jr, was a lighthouse keeper for the Skillagalee Light in the Straits of Mackinac. William Duclon married Julia Davenport in the 1860s and eventually moved to Fish Creek where William was the second of three Eagle Bluff Lighthouse keepers. Along with their seven sons, William and Julia lived in the lighthouse from 1883 to 1918. Information never known to most of us before

was divulged by Laurie about the Duclons and their ancestry!

Then, Ed Miller discussed the eight lighthouses located around the Great Lakes that have the same design as our Eagle Bluff Lighthouse Norman Gothic style. All of them have a “ghost” window, too.

In her melodical voice, Ann Sheridan read the story of Mabel Kalmback Spencer (1884-1970) as she sailed from northern Door County down to Sturgeon Bay with her dad and her brother sleeping below. This occurred when Mabel was young possibly in her teens. She recalled how Eagle Bluff Light guided her safely through the night.

Submitted by Mary Stephenson

A recording of this program, and many other dinner programs, is available to watch on our website: doorcountyhistoricalsociety.org.

Eagle Bluff Lighthouse Stories

Our 2023 season is off to a fragrant start. The charming lilac shrub, shouldering the lighthouse, was in full bloom for the past several weeks. The sweet smell of the shrub’s blossoms greeted visitors with an abundance of perfumed air.

Our amazing volunteers and staff were on hand to enrich visitors’ experiences. We will be having new staff members start this month, and we are still looking for volunteers or those who would like to be on staff for

Friday at 10:30am each week. Bus tours are scheduled throughout the summer and early fall. Check-out our Eagle Bluff Facebook page. We have begun posting pictures of daily happenings and historic objects from the lighthouse. If you are interested in volunteering or working at the EBLH please email wendy@doorcountylighthouse.org

Submitted by Wendy Wagner, EBLH Site Manager

Trolley and bus tours have begun! Visitors have shared with our docents how much they enjoyed the personal greetings from our staff and volunteers, the interpretive signs, and the extraordinary care of the historic site.

Eagle Bluff Light House (EBLH) is special because of its “Story”; a story that is still shared and alive today. The cream city brick structure is not a place of days gone past; it still guards the vessels that travel the bay and remains a gathering point for those drawn to the site for many reasons.

Our operating hours are 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. each day. We conduct Door County Trolley tours Monday thru

Don’t forget! Door County Historical Society

Members receive free admission at Eagle Bluff Lighthouse AND a discount on merchandise in our gift shop. Check out the unique lighthouse gifts, beautiful artist renderings, one-of-a-kind clothing, and wonderful keepsakes available only at Eagle Bluff Lighthouse.

What is a Jackery?

AJackery is a brand of portable power stations with solar generation capability.

In the last newsletter, I reported that we had composed a proposal for a 12 volt solar power system for the Eagle Bluff Lighthouse. As you may know, the lighthouse has never had electricity. Our goal for the solar power system was to provide lighting, ventilation and power for the T Mobile hotspot to connect to the iPad that is used for monetary transactions and to recharge the iPad and DCHS iPhone. We had a welldesigned system with the help of a member who taught solar power at a community college. The park was in favor of our project but the proposal was submitted to a professional DNR engineer in Madison and there were too many requirements he placed upon us, including requiring a “professional” installation.

These onerous requirements caused us abandon the project. Still needing some type of power for our T Mobile device, lighting in the gift shop and a few electronic items, we turned to the purchase of a Jackery portable power station with solar generation. The unit provides 1,002 watt hours of power. We are currently

before needing recharging via a 120volt plug-in, 12-volt auto plug-in or using the small, foldable solar panel. We also plan to add lighting in the basement where the merchandise is stored. Thank-you to the solar power donors who agreed to change their donation to the purchase of the Jackery.

On another note, a new lantern room hatch with open ventilation has been constructed and installed and custom-made louvered attic vents will be installed in the basement windows for full-time ventilation. The two windows in the tower that were rotted and fixed-in -place have been rebuilt. They now have visually historically-correct “two over two” mullions with the upper window able to open for tower ventilation.

Submitted by Chuck Baum, “Chief Engineer”

Heritage Village: New Programming and Mini Exhibits

Heritage Village at Big Creek, located at 2041 Michigan Street in Sturgeon Bay, will once again connect with its educational roots and offer informative and participatory programs and exhibits this summer.

Saturdays at the Village.

This popular program has returned each Saturday this season, June through October! These weekly familyfriendly events feature speakers, demonstrations, crafts, and light refreshments for purchase. Visitors will hear from storytellers and professionals on a wide range of historical topics and are encouraged to ask questions and join in themed hands on activities. July’s programs include a workshop on how to play a metalworking demonstration (July 22), and candle-making with Door County Candle Company (July 29). Fun for the whole family!

Demonstrations

Thursdays and Saturdays typically feature live demonstrations, including blacksmith demos, guided tours of the Madden Tool Museum, and more. Every day is a great day to visit Heritage Village, but

Live Music

Select Fridays will also showcase live performances and the investigation of historic literature. On July 14, the Ukulele Society of Door County will play from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy!

New Exhibits

For those interested in more self-paced interpretation, stop in the Greene Store to explore two new mini exhibits highlighting Door County Historical Society collections items. Both exhibits explore the entertainment available to families in the late 1800s, diving into the history of phonographs and stereoscopes.

Volunteers Needed

Now that the village is open for the season, we are in dire need of volunteers to ensure it continues to run smoothly. Heritage Village is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sharing of any

Blacksmith Rolf Olsen always draws a crowd.

We are thrilled to have new steps on the Greene Store.

Lemonade & Learning at Heritage Village on Saturdays!

Split Rail Fences in Rural America

In the picturesque landscapes of rural America, one can often find a timeless symbol of rustic charm: the split rail fence. With its simplicity and rugged beauty, this iconic fence style has been an integral part of the American countryside for centuries.

The origins of split rail fencing can be traced back to the earliest European settlers who arrived in North America. They brought with them the technique of utilizing the abundant timber resources to construct simple and efficient fences. The basic design of the split rail fence involved splitting logs lengthwise, creating long, sturdy rails, which were then stacked horizontally between vertical posts. This method allowed for quick construction and minimal tools.

fewer materials than other fence types while still providing a visible and durable barrier.

Over time, split rail fence styles diversified across different regions of rural America. In the eastern parts, the zigzag or "worm" fence became popular. This design involved alternating the direction of the rails between sections, creating a visually appealing pattern. In the Midwest, a variation known as the "buck and rail" fence emerged, incorporating additional horizontal rails for added strength and stability.

Beyond their practical utility, split rail fences also hold cultural and symbolic significance in rural America. As a visual representation of frontier heritage, these fences evoke a sense of nostalgia and evoke images of the American pioneer spirit. They have been immortalized in literature, art, and folklore as enduring symbols of the American countryside.

The history of split rail fences in rural America is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of early settlers. These fences have not only served practical purposes but have also left an indelible mark on the cultural and visual landscape of the nation. With their enduring charm and timeless appeal, split rail fences continue to be cherished and celebrated as a cherished part of America's rural heritage.

We are currently looking into the possibility of adding a split rail fence along the property line at Heritage Village at Big Creek. This will visually group the buildings and allow us to create two entrances: one at the Greene Store and one near the Madden Tool Museum. The idea is to make Heritage Village feel more like a destination, and allow us to direct traffic flow through the Village, making sure everyone has the full experience.

Submitted by Amy Frank

Split rail fences found popularity in rural America due to their practicality and various benefits. One significant advantage was their ability to enclose large areas of land economically. As settlers expanded across the continent, they needed a reliable way to define property boundaries and contain livestock. Split rail fences proved ideal for these purposes, as they required

Do you know where we can source cedar logs? We can split them! Please call the office at 920-421-2332 with ideas or to help. Thanks!

Eagle Bluff Lighthouse

The photo below completely boggles my brain. To think that two different people stood in practically the same spot and took the same photo separated by 135 years! What’s even more amazing to me, is how well the lighthouse has endured since it was built in 1868.

The truth is, the lighthouse was here long before any of us. And with the proper care and restoration, it can remain long after we’re gone. Therein lies the essence of historical preservation. It’s not about us. It’s about preserving the stories and artifacts of our ancestors so that our descendants can know and learn from them.

The Door County Historical Society restored the lighthouse in 1960 (one of the first restoration projects of its kind on the Great Lakes) and has cared for the lighthouse ever since. Now, when this historic structure needs additional restoration, the Door County Historical Society is again stepping up to help. We are committed to a complete restoration and reconstruction of Eagle Bluff Lighthouse and site.

importance.

A Glimpse into Maritime Heritage

Built in 1868, Eagle Bluff Lighthouse stands as a testament to our rich maritime history. It serves as a window into the past, allowing us to envision the trials and triumphs of the brave lighthouse keepers who manned its tower. By preserving this beacon of maritime heritage, we honor their contributions and keep alive the stories of those who dedicated their lives to ensuring the safety of seafarers.

A Cultural Icon

Eagle Bluff Lighthouse has become an emblem of our community's identity, cherished by locals and visitors alike. It represents a connection to our roots and serves as a reminder of the perseverance and determination of those who came before us. Restoring and preserving the lighthouse not only maintains our cultural heritage but also provides future generations with an opportunity to appreciate and understand the historical significance it holds.

Capital Campaign

history firsthand. Restoration efforts allow us to transform this majestic structure into an educational hub, offering interactive exhibits, guided tours, and workshops. By preserving the lighthouse, we create a space where individuals of all ages can explore maritime history, learn about navigation techniques, and gain a deeper appreciation for the importance of lighthouses in our maritime traditions.

Economic Impact

The restoration of Eagle Bluff Lighthouse can have a significant positive impact on the local economy. Historical landmarks often attract tourists, history enthusiasts, and curious travelers who seek out unique experiences. By investing in the preservation and restoration of the lighthouse, we create opportunities for job creation, tourism revenue, and the growth of local businesses.

Restoring and preserving Eagle Bluff Lighthouse is not merely about maintaining a structure; it is about honoring our collective past, fostering educational growth, protecting our environment, and bolstering our community's future. We invite you to join us in our endeavor to safeguard this historical treasure and create a lasting legacy for generations to come.

Remember, together we can keep the light shining bright at Eagle Bluff Lighthouse!

Submitted by Amy Frank

The Eagle Bluff Restoration Project will focus on three areas:

1. STABILIZATION

The issues of rising damp and other conditions caused by excess humidity levels in the existing buildings must be addressed or the deterioration will rapidly increase and may become irreversible.

Cost: $302,400

2. RESTORATION

Remedying the humidity issues will return the buildings to 100% usability, allowing us to properly repair, restore, refurnish, and interpret these spaces accurately.

Cost: $2,100,953

3. RECONSTRUCTION

Reconstruction of buildings that were lost over time will provide for a Visitor Center and areas for educational programs and exhibits that will be accessible to all. The buildings will support modern necessities, while also conveying their historical function.

Cost: $897,007

TOTAL COST $3,300,000

Youcanhelpusreachourgoal!

We have already raised nearly $1 million for this restoration project. Please help us reach our goal by making a donation to Eagle Bluff Lighthouse. All gifts are fully tax-deductible and can be pledged over 3 years.

For more information, visit our website or call the office to arrange a time to discuss our plans and the ways you can participate. Thank you!

New Life Member

Charles & Laurie Baum

David Chomeau

New Members

George Conner

Sandra Dirks

Marianne Ewig

Bill Flader

Amy & Paul Frank

Joy Hurley

Patricia Klitzman

Kathleen Metzger

Susan Moore

Char Mueller

Keith & Angela Nerby

Jackson Varnes

Patricia Vickman

Membership News

Membership Updates as of JUNE 13, 2023

We apologize in advance for any omissions or errors. Please contact us to update our records.

Renewing Members

Sue Anschutz

Bonnie & Daniel Balch

Jim Baye

Bert Day

Rita & Charles Doyle

Mike Dybas

Deborah Eckert

D Todd & Cynthia Ehlers

Michele Geiger-Bronsky

Jeff Gosser

Deborah Logerquist

David Long

Larry Maas

Carole Machek

Doug McGee

Judy Nash

Betty & Bill Parsons

Calvin (Dave) Peters

Helen Reed

Linda Rockwell

Ron Schweigert

Mark & Mary Stephenson

Kevin & Mary Tall

Brian & Joan Wake

Doug Weimer

Sarah Woerfel

Recently Passed Members

Tom Bronsky

Mary Grota

Dottie Haviland

Joe Rockwell

We’d love for you to get involved with DCHS. Why? Being active in an organization offers numerous benefits, including the opportunity to make a positive impact in your community, gain valuable skills and experience, expand social networks, boost self-confidence, and find fulfillment through helping others.

Volunteer Opportunities

Heritage Village: Docent.

Work in the general store, welcome visitors, answer questions, and mind the gift shop. We currently need people on Saturdays and Sundays from 10am 4pm. Sign up with a friend to make it more fun!

Heritage Village: Grounds Crew.

We’re looking for a team of people to help take care of the grounds at Heritage Village. This includes some landscaping, weeding, watering, planting, spreading mulch, etc. Ongoing help is needed, whenever you’re available. Ideally once a week.

Office: Misc. office help.

Once a week, come to the office and do filing, stuffing, mailing, etc.

Tadych’s Community Care Program

Save your receipts from Tadych's Market Place Foods! We receive 1% cash back when we return them to the store (grocery receipts only does not include receipts from the service counter). Drop off your receipts at the DCHS office or send them in the mail. 130 N Fourth Ave, PO Box 71, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235. These add up quickly many thanks to those who have contributed!

DCHS Order Form (also available online)

DONATE. Support the Door County Historical Society.

GENERAL FUND: Support the day-to-day operations of DCHS.

EAGLE BLUFF RESTORATION: Support the current restoration project of the Eagle Bluff Lighthouse in Fish Creek.

ENDOWMENT FUND: Donations to this fund are invested, allowing the fund to grow over time.

ATTEND. Join us for our monthly programs.

HICKEY BROS BAILEYS HARBOR FISH CO

Monday, July 24. The Log Den, Egg Harbor. Dinner at 6 p.m. Program to follow. Deadline July 17.

HISTORY OF DOOR COUNTY FAIR

Monday, August 28. Birmingham’s, Bay Shore Dr, Sturgeon Bay. Dinner at 6 p.m. Program to follow. Deadline Aug 21.

DOOR COUNTY TRIVIA!

Monday, September 25. Lodge at Leathem Smith, Sturgeon Bay. Dinner at 6 p.m. Program to follow. Deadline Sept 18.

JOIN. Become a member or renew your membership.

Individual $35 Couple $50 Business $100 Family $75 Nonprofit $35 Sustaining $100

Name Street City, State, Zip

Phone Email

Guest names (If applicable)

Payment Method:

Check (made out to Door County Historical Society)

Credit card

#

Please return to Door County Historical Society, PO Box 71, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235

(920) 421-2332

P.O. Box 71

Sturgeon Bay WI 54235-0071

July

July 8 (10 a.m. 3 p.m.)

Root Beer Festival

Heritage Village at Big Creek

July 14 (11 a.m.)

Music at HV Ukulele Society of DC

Heritage Village at Big Creek

July 15 (11 a.m.)

SAV The Game of Cricket

Heritage Village at Big Creek

July 22 (11 a.m.)

SAV Metalworking

Heritage Village at Big Creek

July 24 (6 p.m.)

July Dinner Program History of Fishing

The Log Den, Egg Harbor

July 29 (11 a.m.)

SAV Candle Making

Heritage Village at Big Creek

Upcoming events!

August

August 5 (11 a.m.)

Saturdays at the Village TBD

Heritage Village at Big Creek

August 12 (11 a.m.)

Saturdays at the Village TBD

Heritage Village at Big Creek

August 19 (11 a.m.)

Saturdays at the Village TBD

Heritage Village at Big Creek

August 26 (11 a.m.)

Saturdays at the Village TBD

Heritage Village at Big Creek

August 28 (6 p.m.)

August Dinner Program History of the Door County Fair

Birmingham’s, Sturgeon Bay

(Be

September

September 2 (11 a.m.)

Saturdays at the Village TBD

Heritage Village at Big Creek

September 9 (11 a.m.)

Saturdays at the Village TBD

Heritage Village at Big Creek

September 16 (11 a.m.)

Saturdays at the Village TBD

Heritage Village at Big Creek

September 23 (10 a.m. 3 p.m.)

Apple Fest!

Heritage Village at Big Creek

September 25 (6 p.m.)

Sept Dinner Program DC Trivia!

Lodge at Leathem Smith