October event featuring dynamic speakers and engaging sessions to take place in Appleton

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Historical Society is excited to host its 18th annual Local History & Historic Preservation Conference at the Hilton Appleton Paper Valley on Oct. 16-18, 2024. The multi-day, fully in-person event will showcase dynamic keynote speakers, interactive workshops, engaging breakout sessions and optional tours with partnering history organizations local to the area.

“With the theme of ‘History in Action for Thriving Communities,’ the conference brings professionals from a variety of fields and backgrounds together for opportunities to learn, network and be inspired about the future of local history and historic preservation in Wisconsin,” said Janet Seymour, Outreach Director at the Wisconsin Historical Society. “Whether you are new to the history space or a veteran in the industry, the conference is a great place to pick up new skills or refresh your knowledge of industry trends and expert strategies.”

Keynote speakers include Executive Director of the San Antonio Conservation Society Vince Michael as well as Executive Director of Made By Us Caroline Klibanoff. Michael spent over four decades as a heritage manager, advocate, consultant and thought leader while Klibanoff has grown her organization into a network of 400 historic sites and museums united to engage young adults.

Conference visitors can select from a variety of informative breakout sessions ranging from the basics of managing archives to strategies for designating local landmarks and much more. Registration includes breakfast, lunches, all sessions and workshops and the option to attend special tours and an after-hours meet-up at the History Museum at the Castle on Thursday evening. Conference presenting partners include AIA Wisconsin, Wisconsin Association of Historic Preservation Commissions, Wisconsin Council for Local History and the Wisconsin Historical Records Advisory Board.

Hotel and registration information is available online with a special early-bird rate available through Aug. 19. Wisconsin Historical Society members receive a 10% discount on registration and students are also eligible for special savings. The final deadline to register is Sept. 23, 2024.

Click here for more information and to register.

About the Wisconsin Historical Society
The Wisconsin Historical Society, founded in 1846, ranks as one of the largest, most active, and most diversified state historical societies in the nation. As both a state agency and a private membership organization, its mission is to help people connect to the past by collecting, preserving and sharing stories. The Wisconsin Historical Society serves millions of people every year through a wide range of sites, programs and services. For more information, visit www.wisconsinhistory.org.