DCHS Newsletter Quarter 4, 2023

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.

Fourth Quarter | October through December |2023

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, we find ourselves in the heart of the beautiful autumn season, and it's the perfect time to reconnect with our vibrant community of history enthusiasts. We hope this message finds you in good health and high spirits as we approach the end of another eventful year.

It’s important that we acknowledge a significant loss we've experienced. Our dear friend and Board President, Jay Zahn, passed away recently. Jay was an invaluable member of our society, a passionate advocate for preserving our heritage, and a cherished friend to many. His dedication and enthusiasm will be deeply missed, and we'll honor his memory by continuing the work he was so passionate about.

Don’t miss our final two dinner programs of the year: Monday, October 23, and the Annual Meeting on Monday, November 27. We will conduct the annual business of the Historical Society and welcome new board members and officers. We have a couple open positions on the Board so please let us know if you have any interest in learning more about this opportunity to get more involved.

As the holiday season approaches and we gather with friends and family, let's also take a moment to reflect on the importance of preserving our shared history. Our society has made great strides this year, thanks to the generosity and support of members like you. With your contributions, we've been able to initiate exciting new programs and projects at Heritage Village and Eagle Bluff Lighthouse, and we're thrilled to share some highlights with you in this newsletter.

With its unique and charming atmosphere, Heritage Village will be especially festive when the buildings are decorated with festive lights, ornaments, and greenery. Tours of the village will transport you back in time to experience holiday traditions and customs from a different era. We look forward to celebrating the holidays with you at Heritage Village. Stay tuned for more information.

On behalf of the board, I want to express our heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support. The Door County Historical Society thrives because of your dedication and passion for history. Let's carry forward the legacy of Jay Zahn and all those who have worked tirelessly to ensure that our rich heritage endures for generations to come.

We wish you and your loved ones a pleasant fall and holiday season filled with warmth, joy, and cherished memories. We can't wait to see you, and we look forward to the bright future we'll create together.

Final Dinner Programs of 2023

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

October 23 —The Rise (and Fall) of Motels in America, The Mill Supper Club, Sturgeon Bay

melaniejane, owner and operator of the Holiday Music Motel, will discuss the motel phenomenon of the 20th century and the history of The Holiday Music Motel within that movement. From "Auto Camping" to neon donned roadside attractions to the dawn and rapid expansion of the franchise, motels have played an important role in the lives of travelers of American roadways. With fewer motels remaining, The Holiday plays an important role in not only preserving this bygone era for others to experience for themselves, but also in their mission to be a significant contributor to the community through their outreach and support of the music and art community.

(which was acquired in 2014 to expand their mission of supporting the art and music community.)

At the dinner program, enjoy The Mill’s famous chicken dinner with all the fixings. 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 $35 (DCHS members pay $30) Reservations are due by October 16.

November 27 —An Evening with Jason Palmer and the Peninsula Symphonic Band, Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Sturgeon Bay

Join us for an enchanting evening of music and history with Jason Palmer, conductor of the Peninsula Symphonic Band, at our November dinner program.

Jason will take us on a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of symphonic history, shedding light on the evolution and significance of this timeless art form. After the Annual Meeting of the DCHS, we will join the band in the sanctuary to observe a live rehearsal! Witness the creative process unfold before your eyes! You’ll even have the chance to ask questions of the talented musicians. This exceptional evening promises to be a harmonious blend of cultural enrichment and community connection that music aficionados and history enthusiasts alike won't want to miss.

The dinner will be catered by Scaturo’s and includes Lemon Pepper Chicken, mashed potatoes, stuffed Florentine pasta, garden salad, brownies, water and coffee. Please reserve your spot by November 20. Cost is $35 ($30 for DCHS members). Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with dinner at 6 p.m., and the program to follow.

Bay in 2008 after having participated in the 2007 collaborative songwriting “Construction Zone” of Steel Bridge Songfest hosted at the Holiday Music Motel. melaniejane’s unique combination of talents made her an ideal match not only for running the business of the motel but also as a co-producer/collaborator and organizer for the songwriting events hosted there three times a year (until 2020): Steel Bridge Songfest, Dark Songs, and Love On Holiday.

melaniejane continues to run the business operations of the motel and the adjacent Tambourine Collaboratory

Eagle Bluff Lighthouse Storytellers

Step into a world where history comes alive at Eagle Bluff Lighthouse! Here, time doesn't merely stand still; it dances to the enchanting tunes of our expert docents who transform your visit into an unforgettable journey.

Imagine this: Our docents aren't just storytellers; they are maestros of the past. They weave tales of the Duclon family, unveil the lighthouse's hidden historical gems, and paint a vivid picture of life in the late 1800s Eagle Bluff community.

These docents are the time-travel conductors, guiding you effortlessly back to a bygone era. But they do more than share stories; they possess the rare gift of making intricate history feel like a relatable adventure.

Meet our exceptional docents, a blend of passionate volunteers and dedicated staff, each with a unique love affair with Eagle Bluff's captivating narrative.

As the summer season bustled with activity, Eagle Bluff Lighthouse became a hub of excitement. From daily visitors to daily tour buses, our docents tirelessly shared Eagle Bluff's story with all who crossed our threshold. We owe an immense debt of gratitude to our

remarkable volunteers and staff for the time they've devoted to preserving Eagle Bluff's legacy.

Don't miss your chance to be a part of this extraordinary journey! Come experience Eagle Bluff Lighthouse before our season draws to a close. Immerse yourself in the tales of the past and take home a piece of history with our exquisite Door County Candle Company candles, cozy hoodies, captivating prints by local artists, and so much more. Your adventure awaits!

Submitted by Wendy Wagner

at the Village” Help Families Connect with Local History

Each Saturday this past summer, our charming village came alive as professionals from Door County and beyond gathered to share their captivating stories, passions, and insights, all deeply rooted in the heart of rural America.

Our summer programs were nothing short of extraordinary. From a fascinating chat with Postmaster Tom Anschutz, delving into the enchanting history of snail mail in the area, to the enchanting process of crafting traditional whip darts from the bounties of nature, there was never a dull moment.

• Making Traditional Whip Darts with Robert Florence

• Meet and Greet with Open Door Bird Sanctuary

• The History of Cheese Making with Renard’s Cheese

"Saturdays at the Village" were more than just events; they were a journey through time, connecting visitors to their community's glorious past while celebrating the enduring presence of these remarkable businesses and art forms in our lives today. Our hands-on activities, from games to crafts, left an indelible mark, solidifying the bond between past and present.

While this summer's attendance may have been on the quieter side, we are filled with hope, for we've sown the seeds of a tradition that promises to blossom with each passing year, leaving a lasting impact on all who join us on this extraordinary journey through time.

Submitted by Michaela Kraft

Each weekend, we unveiled a brand-new, interactive adventure, and all the village's historic buildings opened their doors for self-guided tours, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of our rural heritage.

A full list of events included:

• Knot Tying at the Kohl Fish House with Henriksen Fisheries

• Door County’s Agricultural History with the Peninsular Research Station

• Post Office History with Egg Harbor Postmaster Tom Anschutz

• “The Life of Simon Kahquedos” presented by Dave Lea

• Learn to Play Historic Cricket with Historian Tom Melville

• Metalworking Demonstration with Cesar Escobar

• The History of the Door County Candle Company with Christiana and Nick Trapani

• Children’s Book Reading with Local Author Sue Jarosh

“Saturdays

Update on EBLH Restoration

We are thrilled to bring you the latest update on the progress of the Eagle Bluff Lighthouse restoration project. Over the past few months, our dedicated team has been hard at work, and we are delighted to share our achievements, milestones, and future plans with you.

Funding Milestone: Surpassing $1 Million

First and foremost, we are excited to announce that we have reached a significant milestone in our fundraising efforts. Thanks to generous contributions and grant awards, we have raised just over $1 million towards our ultimate goal of $3.3 million. This is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the community's commitment to preserving this historic landmark.

Preserving the integrity of the existing lighthouse is paramount, and to that end, we have engaged the expertise of John Fletcher from National Restoration, Inc. Mr. Fletcher will conduct a thorough site visit and formulate a comprehensive plan of action for immediate stabilization efforts. Rest assured, the lighthouse is in capable hands, and its future is looking brighter than ever.

Public Fundraising Initiative Launch

Architectural Plans Underway

To ensure the faithful restoration of the Eagle Bluff Lighthouse, we've taken a crucial step by enlisting the expertise of a renowned architectural firm. Sanders & Czapski Associates will create the necessary construction plans for the reconstructed barn, a vital component of our restoration project. These plans will ensure that every detail reflects the lighthouse's rich history and heritage.

Electrifying Progress with WPS and WDNR

We are excited that we are making substantial strides in bringing electricity to the site, thanks to a collaboration with Wisconsin Public Service (WPS) and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR). This electrification effort will not only enhance the site's accessibility but also facilitate the implementation of various preservation and educational initiatives.

As we continue to make remarkable progress, we are gearing up for the public phase of our fundraising campaign. To ensure its success, we have recently welcomed a seasoned consultant to our team. Drew Richmond, of TwentySix Consultants, will help us navigate the intricacies of this critical phase, allowing us to engage with our community, supporters, and history enthusiasts far and wide.

As we move forward, we encourage you to stay involved and spread the word about our restoration project. Together, we can ensure that the Eagle Bluff Lighthouse stands as a beacon of history for generations to come.

We are profoundly grateful for your ongoing support, which fuels our determination to restore this iconic landmark. Together, we will preserve the Eagle Bluff Lighthouse's legacy and continue to shine a light on its rich history.

Submitted

by Amy Frank

Heritage Village: Maintenance Projects

We're excited to share latest updates on the maintenance projects taking place at our beloved Heritage Village at Big Creek. Thanks to the incredible generosity of our members and the Raibrook Foundation, we've been able to make significant improvements to our historical site.

Smooth Sailing with New Paths

First and foremost, let's talk about the brand-new pathways that wind their way through our village.

Thanks to the skillful craftsmanship of Mark Stephenson and Lola (pictured below), we now have smooth and level paths that are an absolute joy to stroll along. Whether you're exploring our historical buildings or simply taking in the picturesque surroundings, these

their generous donation of quarry wash, which played a crucial role in making our pathways not only beautiful but also long-lasting.

Bidding Mold Adieu

Our dedication to preserving history goes beyond aesthetics. We're pleased to announce the successful completion of mold remediation in four of our

our heartfelt thanks for their meticulous work in restoring these spaces to their former glory. Now, you can explore these buildings with confidence, knowing they are free from mold and moisture issues.

Fencing in Progress

Our next exciting project is the construction of a new fence, and we're making strides in this direction. Thanks to Dick Baudhuin for his efforts in acquiring the necessary rails for the fence. We're thrilled to share that we're working on a fantastic collaboration between our dedicated volunteers and the fall athletes from Sturgeon Bay High School.

Together, we'll be rolling up our sleeves and building the fence in early October, further enhancing the safety

Heritage Village: Maintenance Projects (cont.)

Banishing Dampness

Maintaining the integrity of our historical structures is a top priority. That's why we've added new dehumidifiers and sump pumps to the crawl spaces of four buildings. These additions will help us keep dampness at bay and ensure that any excess water is efficiently drained, particularly during the spring thaw.

Bees Be Gone!

Earlier this spring, Renee and Willie McAllister undertook the challenging task of removing a bee colony from a portion of the Warren house. They not only ensured the safe removal of the abandoned colony but also repaired the damaged ceiling. Thanks to their efforts, visitors can now enjoy a peaceful and bee-free environment.

Chinking Repairs

Last but not least, we'd like to highlight the incredible efforts of Todd Fink and his team of dedicated volunteers. They're hard at work repairing the chinking on the Schopf and Warren houses, ensuring that these iconic buildings continue to stand the test of time.

These projects wouldn't be possible without the unwavering support of our community members. We're

so grateful for your contributions, whether they are in the form of time, resources, or enthusiasm. Your dedication keeps our beloved Heritage Village at Big Creek thriving, and we can't wait to continue our journey together as we preserve and celebrate our rich history.

Stay tuned for more updates on our ongoing projects, and as always, feel free to visit and explore our village it's a true treasure trove of history and community spirit.

Submitted by Amy Frank

Thank you to the following people and businesses who donated time, money, or products for our Heritage Village Maintenance Appeal this fall. (Weapologizeforanyinadvertentomissions.)

Sara Anschutz

Dick & Joan Baudhuin

Bill & Cheryl Chaudoir

Dennis & Bonnie Connolly

Karen Cowan

Stephen & Suzanne Dickinson

Todd Fink

Julie & Robert Gebauer

James Goodwin

Linda & Giz Herbst

Trudy & Jay Herbst

Kenneth & Jean Hill

Mark & Michaela Holey

Karen & Milton Lenius

Lily Bay Sand & Gravel

Carole & John Machek

Mike & Barb Madden

Renee & Willie McAllister

Doug McGee

Julia & Bill Meyers

Kris & Jerry Miesbauer

Char Mueller

Shawn & Maxine Nehmer

Madelyn Ostrand

Sandie Ott

Barb Ottum

Bob Papke

Pr Paul & Karen Pfeffer

Ralph Rabach

The Raibrook Foundation

James & Terry Roemig

Ann & Phil Schmitz

Sally Schopf

Myrv & Holly Somerhalder

Mark & Mary Stephenson

Charlene Viste

Cathy Vuksanovic

Mary & Dan Williams

Carly Sarkis (I)

Pat Blizel

Bill Chaudoir

Linda Faust (I)

Julie Gebauer

DCHS Board of Directors

Tom Groenfeldt (I)

Keith Nerby (I)

Ann Schmitz

Ann Sheridan

Mark Stephenson (I)

Charlene Viste

The following directors have graciously offered to serve an additional 2-year term on the Board of Directors. Directors will be elected at the Society’s annual meeting on November 27, 2023.

Re-Election: Pat Blizel

Patrick Blizel was born and raised in Sturgeon Bay. He earned his undergraduate degrees in History and Broadfield Social Studies from Marian University in Fond du Lac, as well as a Masters Degree in Educational Leadership.

As a youth Patrick enjoyed the outdoors of Door County. He also enjoyed listening to the old stories of the shipyards and learning about the history of his family. Patrick now owns his great uncle's homestead with many of the household and farm tools still present. Patrick’s love of history also carried over into his teaching. He has taken students to see some of the most important sites and museums around the world; London, Paris, Madrid, Rome, and Florence.

Re-Election: Bill Chaudoir

Bill Chaudoir retired from the position of Executive Director of the Door County Economic Development Corporation in 2016. He served the organization for almost 28 years. Previous work experience was in municipal, county, and regional planning.

Bill and his wife, Cheryl, live in Sturgeon Bay and have three married daughters and seven grandkids. Bill and Cheryl are involved in many community organizations including the Belgian Heritage Center, where Bill served as founding Board Chairman for several years. In retirement they enjoy traveling and learning more history.

Re-Election: Julie Gebauer

Julie Gebauer is a retired Art Educator, having worked in the Sturgeon Bay Public Schools for 25 years. Julie continues to create art, teach classes, and do commission work in painting and calligraphy. She volunteers at church, the Miller Art Museum, and is on the Board of Rogue Community Theater. Julie holds lifetime memberships in the Door County Historical Society, UW-Madison Alumni Association, Sturgeon Bay Jaycees, and is a Senator in US Jaycee International Senate.

Julie has been married to Robert for 51 years. Bob and Julie were born and raised in Door County. They have two sons, one daughter, ten energetic grandchildren, and two precious foster grandchildren. Julie earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Art Education from UW-Madison and a Master of Arts Degree in Education from Viterbo University.

DCHS Board of Directors

Re-Election: Ann Schmitz

Ann Schmitz was a legal secretary for Herb Johnson who was very interested in the history of Door County. In recent years, Ann has also worked at her church in Maplewood and for her husband, Phil, at Schmitz Insurance. They have one daughter, Lucy, who is married and is a teacher at Waukesha Catholic. Ann has served on the board of several organizations, most notably as an Area Vice President of the Wisconsin Jaycees in 1986, and currently serves as Club Administrator for the Forestville Maplewood Lions Club, Assistant Secretary for Door County Right to Life, and as Treasurer of the Green Bay Diocesan Council of Catholic Women.

Re-Election: Ann Sheridan

Ann Sheridan worked at Eagle Bluff Lighthouse for eight years as a docent, staff trainer, and volunteer portraying Mrs. Julia Duclon, the lighthouse keeper’s wife. In 2010 she helped develop evening tours as a member of the Northern Door Storytellers. Now, she volunteers for Northern Sky Theater, Door Shakespeare, and the auditorium. She has been active in the Jacksonport Advancement Corporation especially as planner and volunteer coordinator for Maifest.

Ann graduated from the University of Dayton with Bachelors of Education and Speech from Ohio University with a Master of Fine Arts. She moved to Hawaii in 1968 and taught high school English on Oahu for 34 years at a large 1800student school. She served as a department head, resource teacher, student activities coordinator; and for 15 years, she took several positions on the board of the island-wide Alliance for Drama Education. Ann’s family has owned a home in Jacksonport since the 1960s and Ann would visit there often before her retirement from teaching in 2002.

Re-Election: Char Viste

Charlene (Char) Viste has been a part of the Door County community since 1973, when she and her husband, Dan, both St. Norbert College graduates, settled in Sturgeon Bay. Charlene, using her elementary education major and music minor, became the language arts teacher for grades 5-8 at Corpus Christi Catholic School and private piano teacher in her home. Several years later she accepted a position as proofreader for the Door County Advocate, which she held for over 20 years.

Charlene and Dan were very active in the Sturgeon Bay Jaycees, both serving as its president. They raised four boys, and have 16 active grandchildren. Since Dan’s death 7 1/2 years ago, Charlene has volunteered as a reading buddy in several Sturgeon Bay schools, at the ADRC, and has become active in her Corpus Christi parish. She is the treasurer of DCHS and serves on the Program and Personnel & Finance committees.

Additionally, we currently have four open seats on the Board of Directors. We are seeking nominations for these positions. If you are interested or know someone who would make a great addition to our board, please contact the nominating committee at office@doorcountyhistoricalsociety.org or 920-421-2332.

Elections will be held at the Door County Historical Society’s Annual Meeting on November 27, 2023.

Membership News

Membership Updates Between JUNE 13 and SEPTEMBER 27, 2023

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

New Life Member

Corey Geiger

New Members Since 6/13/2023

Katie Arvia

Richard & Joan Baudhuin

Paulie Beutel

Brad Birmingham

Gary Birnschein

Mariss Cook

Betty DeGodt

Jessica Faust

Nancy Hawkins

Jennifer Moore

Marilyn Potts

Susan Riley

James & Terry Roemig

Julie Rogers

Renewing Members

Theresa Alexander

Linda & Larry Alfred

Phil Biebl

Kim & Kevin Butler

Myles Dannhausen

Jim & Kim Ellis

Janine Geske & Michael Hogan

Gary & Rebecca Giewald

Gary & Karen Gruenisen

Mary Jean Hale

Linda & Giz Herbst

Kenneth & Jean Hill

Judy Hollingshead

Mike Korte

Jan Livingston & Al Curtis

Char Mueller

Rolf Olson

Don & Pam Richmond

Kathryn Schultz

Linda & Bob Taylor

David & Judy Ward

Barb & Ken Wardius

Carol A Weis

Lee & Dorla Wilder

Mary & Dan Williams

Shelly Wisowaty

Members Who Passed in 2023

Ron Berg

Sherron Duclon Pearson

George Evenson

Hans Feld

Mary Grota

Doris Loss

Joe Rockwell

Arby Roth

Beth Yount

Jay Zahn

Tadych’s Community Care Program

DCHS Treasurer Char Viste and Executive Director Amy Frank want to remind you to 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:

Door County Historical Society 130 N Fourth Ave PO Box 71 Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235

As you can see, these add up quickly! 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.

HOLIDAY MUSIC MOTEL

Monday, Oct 23. The Mill Supper Club, Sturgeon Bay. Dinner at 6 p.m. Program to follow. Deadline October 16.

PENINSULA SYMPHONIC BAND & ANNUAL MEETING

Monday, Nov 27. Prince of Peace Church, Sturgeon Bay. Dinner at 6 p.m. Program to follow. Deadline Nov 20.

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 Card # Exp CVV

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

Did You Know?

The Niagara Escarpment stretches nearly 1,000 miles in an arc from Wisconsin to New York. An escarpment is a made from sloping layers of dolomite rock that can break off, leaving steep slopes or cliffs. The 250-mile section of Niagara Escarpment in Wisconsin is sometimes called “The Ledge.” A few traces of it are first seen in Waukesha County. It then stretches north through Door County where it is more visible.

The escarpment formed during the last ice age. A one- to twomile thick glacier was traveling in the area that is now known as the Door County Peninsula. The glacier hit layers of the

escarpment's dolomite, which caused the glacier to split and carve out Lake Michigan, Lake Winnebago, and Green Bay.

The most visual area of the escarpment is on Door County’s the Green Bay side, where the steep cliffs tower up to 250 feet in places. At the base of the escarpment are large chunks of stone that form talus, or a slope of fallen rock. The land then slopes gently to the east toward Lake Michigan. This is called a dip-slope.

Early American Indians used the Niagara Escarpment for sacred purposes like burials and ceremonies. European settlers used its stone for foundations for homes, barns, businesses, and churches. They also burned the dolomite in lime kilns to produce lime powder that they would use for paint and mortar.

The Niagara Escarpment is a treasured part of Wisconsin’s rich landscape. It is home to 241 rare or endangered plants and animals including rare orchids and the Hine’s emerald dragonfly. The state legislature named 2010 the Year of the Niagara Escarpment to promote education and awareness of the significant landscape feature.

Photo: Peninsula Pulse Info: Door County Exploration Kit