How to Form a Local History Organization
Initial Steps for Organizing a Local History Organization
The Wisconsin Historical Society assists all new historical and cultural societies and organizations that become affiliates with the organizational steps of preparing bylaws, incorporating, and applying for tax-exempt status. This assistance is provided by the Society's Local History Outreach offices in Madison, Ashland, Eau Claire, and Milwaukee to all new historical societies that receive approval for affiliation by vote of the Board of Curators of the Wisconsin Historical Society.
The Society encourages all non-profit community history and cultural organizations, including publicly funded museums and tribal museums, to consider affiliation. Affiliates receive a variety of benefits. The Society requires affiliates to possess appropriate bylaws, open their programs to the general public, and submit an annual report.
Steps for Forming a Local History Organization
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Adopt Bylaws
Use the sample bylaws developed by the Wisconsin Historical Society or develop your own:
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Apply for Affiliation
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Incorporate
Following approval by the Wisconsin Historical Society Board of Curators, in consultation with applicant, Society staff will file Articles of Incorporation with Department of Financial Institutions. Since the Board meets irregularly, you may choose to incorporate before you affiliate with the Society. To incorporate, file DFI Form 102 with the Department of Financial Institutions:
DFI Form 102: Articles of Incorporation, Nonstock Corporation
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Apply for a Federal Employer ID Number (FEIN)
The FEIN is a nine-digit number assigned to corporations, nonprofit organizations, and other entities for tax filing, reporting purposes, and establishing your business tax account. Learn more here:
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Open a Bank Account and Establish Check-Signing Procedures
Browse these resources for opening bank accounts for small non-profit organizations:
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File for Federal Tax Exemption
Use IRS forms and resources to apply for tax exemption:
IRS Publication 557: Tax-Exempt Status for Your Organization
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Register as a Charitable Organization
Register through the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions:
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Apply for Wisconsin Sales and Use Tax Certificate of Exempt Status
Use Wisconsin Department of Revenue Form S-103:
Become a Local History Affiliate!
Not an affiliate yet? The Wisconsin Historical Society’s Outreach program supports 440+ organizations statewide with resources, training, and opportunities to share community stories. Apply for affiliation with the Wisconsin Historical Society today!
Questions about Local History Outreach?
We're here to help you get the information you need. Please reach out to our team using the email below.
Email UsLast Updated: April 8, 2026
