In 1976, our nation celebrated its Bicentennial — 200 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Across the country, communities marked the occasion by reflecting on their own local history. In Menomonie, that reflection led to something lasting and meaningful: Wilson Place became a museum.
Inspired by the spirit of the Bicentennial, the Dotseth Family and members of our community recognized the importance of sharing Menomonie’s lumber-era story. Rather than simply preserving a historic home, they opened its doors so that others could experience it.
And for fifty years, that decision has shaped our community.
More Than a Historic Home
Wilson Place has been:
• A place of learning
• A place of gathering
• A place of storytelling
• A bridge between generations
Visitors have walked through its rooms and discovered the stories of the Wilson, Stout, and LaPointe families. Students have experienced local history firsthand. Volunteers have given their time to keep the doors open. Families have returned year after year.
This 50th Anniversary is not only about a building — it is about the people who believed our local history was worth sharing.
Join Us: June 26–28, 2026
We invite you to celebrate with us during our 50th Anniversary weekend.
The celebration will include:
• Guided historical tours throughout the day
• Ice cream and nostalgic treats on the lawn
• The 1927 Popcorn Truck
• The Circus Bell Wagon
• Live music on the gazebo
• Old-fashioned outdoor games
• A community memory board
• The 2026 Time Capsule Experience
We hope the weekend feels joyful, welcoming, and full of connection — just as Wilson Place has always been.
The 2026 Time Capsule Experience
As part of our anniversary celebration, we are launching a special three-part Time Capsule project:
✨ A 10-Year “Letter to Your Future Self”
✨ A 50-Year “Letter to Your Future Generation”
✨ A 100-Year Community Capsule to be opened in 2126
These capsules will preserve the voices of today — capturing life in Menomonie in 2026 and sending it forward in time.
History is not only what we inherit.
It is what we choose to pass on.
Come Celebrate With Us — Behind the Scenes!
Step Into the Story – As we prepare for this milestone celebration, we are inviting our community to be part of it in a very special way — by volunteering. Wilson Place has stood for fifty years because people cared enough to give their time, energy, and heart. During our 50th Anniversary weekend, volunteers will help welcome guests, support tours and family activities, assist with the Time Capsule Experience, and keep the celebration running smoothly. Whether you can give a few hours or the entire weekend, your presence helps create the welcoming spirit that makes Wilson Place feel like home. Click here to sign up.
The Next 50 Years
As we celebrate fifty years as a museum, we also look ahead.
We remain committed to education, preservation, and community engagement — ensuring that Wilson Place continues to welcome new generations.
Since 1976, Wilson Place has stood as a testament to community pride and shared history.
We cannot wait to celebrate this milestone with you.