Skip to main content
Traveling Display

Wisconsin's John Muir

"Oh, that glorious Wisconsin wilderness!"

Commemorating the centennial of the National Park Service, the traveling display Wisconsin's John Muir: An Exhibit Celebrating the Centennial of the National Park Service explores Muir's youth in Wisconsin, his advocacy for national parks and his views on environmental issues such as logging, hunting and climate change. 

This display is available to schools, nature centers, public libraries, historical societies and civic organizations in Wisconsin.

Portrait of John Muir taken as he is seated and reading a book.

John Muir with a Book, 1908

Background

Wisconsin's John Muir shares facsimiles of images and manuscripts from the Society's library and archives alongside Muir quotes and interpretive texts. The display is most suitable for secondary schools and the general public.

View the complete contents of each panel.

A reader on Wisconsin's environmental tradition, links to Muir's books, manuscripts, and other writings, and links to biographical information and photographs of Muir are also available (see below).

The Muir display and reading program was funded by bequests from John A. Peters and the Kenyon and Mary Follett family.

Display Details

4 freestanding, double-sided poly fabric banners, 39" x 87", on retractable banner stands

180 sq. ft.

$100, plus transport

One copy of the display is available for rental, based in Madison. Renters are responsible for arranging transport to and from their venue; in some cases, venues may be able to make arrangements with preceding or following venues if scheduling allows.

Proceeds from traveling exhibit rentals support the Society's ongoing outreach programs and activities.

Up to 4 weeks. Venues may schedule the display for more than 4 weeks for an additional fee.

Open quotation mark

Wilderness is a necessity... Mountain parks and reservations are useful not only as fountains of timber and irrigating rivers, but as fountains of life.

Closing quotation mark
John Muir
Head and shoulders oval framed portrait of John Muir.

Additional Resources

Wisconsin's Environmental Tradition: A Reader

View the Reader

Newspaper Articles on John Muir

Search Articles

Original Manuscript Letters

Read the Letters

A Visit to John Muir in His Dorm Room

Read the Letter

Muir's Brother Recalls Their Boyhood

Read the Letter

Muir's Mechanical Inventions

See the Drawings

Other Traveling Displays

Browse other traveling displays currently available from the Wisconsin Historical Society.

Browse Displays
Students take notes on an exhibit set up in a school hallway.
Contact Us

Questions about Traveling Displays?

We're here to help you get the information you need. 

(608) 890-3170

Email Us

Last Updated: April 8, 2026


Go to top
Wisconsin Historical Society
Search Dropdown