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Archival Research

Connecting generations through experiences, stories, and places since 1875.

Our team is passionate about continuing stories and activating historic places to forge meaningful connections across generations. You can join in preserving our community's history by becoming a member.

Our Story

Featured Stories

19
Nov
Victorian house painters

Victorian Painter’s Tools & Techniques: Color Schemes, Brushes, and Pigments Explained

Victorian-era painters relied on unique tools, pigments, and color systems that continue to influence historic home preservation today. Understanding
3 min read
19
Nov
Historic Washington House of West Bend: The Everlasting Gathering Place

Historic Washington House of West Bend: The Everlasting Gathering Place

The Historic Washington House in West Bend, Wisconsin, is one of the city’s oldest surviving business buildings. Built in
3 min read
18
Nov
Touring the 1886 Jailhouse in West Bend, Wisconsin with The Tower Heritage Center

Have You Seen These 6 Hidden, Historic Details in Wisconsin’s 1886 Jailhouse?

The 1886 Jailhouse is one of the region’s most famous historic buildings. And it’s no wonder why: with
3 min read
18
Nov
Vivian's Big Cedar Lake Resort in West Bend, Wisconsin

5 Essential Businesses of Historic Big Cedar Lake

Sitting at 4 miles long and covering 937 acres, Big Cedar Lake is the largest lake in Washington County. In
5 min read
18
Nov
Leather making history in Washington County, Wisconsin

Inside the Historic Craft of Leather Making & Amity Leather Company

Did you know?… Leather making is one of mankind’s earliest crafts. The artistry of leather in West Bend is
6 min read
11
Nov
The Spirit of the American Doughboy Statue in West Bend, Wisconsin as a part of Washington County's Veterans' Plaza

7 Hidden Stories Behind Washington County’s Doughboy Statue

Walking down towards the intersection of Poplar and 5th Avenue stands a brass statue of a WWI doughboy. For almost
6 min read