Current Exhibits
The History of Sylvania Wilderness – From Private Ownership (late 1800s) to Protected Wilderness (1987)
New in 2023 — the fascinating history of the beautiful Sylvania Wilderness area! This new exhibit tells the story of the group of wealthy industrialists who purchased the property and largely spared it from the intense logging of the late 1800s and early 1900s. Learn about these “Sylvania Club” men, …
Read MoreDonaldson Mill, Town and School
A beautiful scale model of the two-room Donaldson School brings back to life the time in the early 1900s when the lumber mill town of Donaldson was at its peak. The mill and town were located by Mill Lake, about 2 miles west of present-day Land O’ Lakes. Rapid growth of the mill town brought workers and families to the area, …
Read MoreEarly Land O’ Lakes
Early photos and a timeline tell the story of how Land O’ Lakes grew from its beginning with the logging industry to a resort mecca and developing community. First called State Line, then Donaldson, and finally Land O’ Lakes….three names for our Wisconsin town that borders the Upper Peninsula of Michigan! …
Read MoreBarefoot Charlie
A small and popular exhibit showcases the enduring legend of Barefoot Charlie, an entrepreneur and local character still remembered today by many residents and visitors to Land O’ Lakes. News articles, photos and artifacts present the story of Barefoot Charlie! …
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