This year, the Wilson Place Museum has been alive with the energy and curiosity of two members of Girl Scout Troop 3226, who have taken on a remarkable project to help preserve and share our community’s history.
As part of their Silver Award project, the Scouts researched and designed new interpretive signs for the museum grounds — each highlighting a unique artifact or structure, from stone walls and garden gates to historic architectural features. Their goal was to make it easier for visitors to explore the museum’s outdoor history and to connect the objects they see with the stories behind them.
Working alongside museum volunteers , the Scouts conducted research, wrote interpretive text, and created labels that bring the past to life for future generations. They also helped document artifacts, organize reference materials, and prepare displays for the upcoming 50th Anniversary of the Wilson Place Museum in 2025.
To complement their work, the two Scouts compiled a book featuring all of the artifact descriptions and research notes, available for visitors to browse in the Wilson Place Museum gift shop and at the Menomonie Public Library. The book offers a deeper look into each item’s history and showcases their dedication to accuracy, storytelling, and community education.
They also created a fun and educational Scavenger Hunt that accompanies the indoor museum tour, designed to keep children engaged and curious as they explore each room. The activity helps young visitors focus on details, make discoveries, and connect more deeply with the stories behind the exhibits — turning a visit to the museum into an interactive adventure.
Their efforts remind us that preserving history isn’t just about caring for old buildings and collections — it’s about inspiring young people to carry these stories forward. The Wilson Place Museum is deeply grateful for the dedication, creativity, and leadership these two Scouts have shown in honoring Menomonie’s legacy.
We invite visitors to explore their work on the museum grounds and inside the mansion, and to see how the next generation is helping keep local history alive.