Wisconsin Historical Museum facts for kids
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| Location | 30 N. Carroll Street Madison, Wisconsin  United States |
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| Type | Historical museum |
| Owner | Wisconsin Historical Society |
| Public transit access |  Metro Transit |
The Wisconsin Historical Museum is a cool place in Madison, Wisconsin. It's right on the Capitol Square. This museum helps you learn all about the amazing past of Wisconsin!
Right now, the museum is mostly open for its shop. You can find books, gifts, and other fun items there. Everything is about Wisconsin and its history.
Contents
What is the Wisconsin Historical Museum?
The Wisconsin Historical Museum is run by the Wisconsin Historical Society. This group works to save and share Wisconsin's history. The museum used to have many exhibits. These exhibits showed how Wisconsin grew over time.
What Could You See at the Museum?
The museum had lots of ways to learn. You could see real objects from the past. There were old photos and big displays called dioramas. These dioramas showed scenes from history. You could also watch videos and use interactive computer programs. All these things helped visitors understand Wisconsin's story.
How Was the Museum Saved?
In 2004, the museum faced a challenge. There were plans to cut its funding. This meant the museum might have to close. But the governor of Wisconsin, Jim Doyle, stepped in. He knew how important the museum was. He made sure the museum got its money back. This kept the museum open for everyone to enjoy.
Fun and Unique Exhibits
The museum didn't just show traditional history. It also had some very unique exhibits.
Malted Milk and Big Boy
Did you know that malted milk was first made in Wisconsin? The museum once had an exhibit all about it! They also had a special item in their collection. It was a giant "Big Boy" statue. This statue was the mascot for a hamburger restaurant. It was saved by the museum in 1985 when its restaurant closed.
Smart Studios Music Exhibit
In 2012, the museum opened an exhibit about music. It was about Smart Studios. This was a famous recording studio in Madison. A musician named Butch Vig was part of a band called Garbage (band). He helped start Smart Studios. The studio closed in 2010. The museum's exhibit showed its history and impact on music.
The Future of the Museum
In late 2022, the museum closed its main exhibits. This was to get ready for something new and exciting! They are planning to build a brand new place. It will be called the Wisconsin History Center. This new center is expected to open in 2026. It will be an even bigger and better place to learn about Wisconsin's past.
