Wilson Place Museum 50th Anniversary Celebration, June 26th-28th

7 hours ago
3 min read

The Wilson Place Museum is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a three-day community celebration from June 26–28, 2026.

Founded as a museum in 1976, the Wilson Place preserves and shares the history of Menomonie, its people, and the innovations that shaped our community. Throughout the anniversary weekend, visitors can enjoy tours, family activities, live music, special exhibits, and opportunities to help create a time capsule for future generations.

50TH ANNIVERSARY OPEN HOUSE

Friday, June 26 | Noon–9:00 PM

Saturday, June 27 | Noon–5:00 PM

Sunday, June 28 | Noon–5:00 PM

Enjoy a weekend of history, community, and family fun featuring:

Museum tours
Time Capsule Project
Story Sharing Board
Ice Cream Sundaes
1927 Popcorn Truck
Historic displays
Ham Radio Event

Admission to the grounds and activities is free.

WILSON PLACE MUSEUM TOURS

Friday, June 26 | Noon–6:00 PM

Saturday, June 27 | Noon–5:00 PM

Sunday, June 28 | Noon–5:00 PM

Take a guided tour of Menomonie's historic Wilson Place Mansion and discover the stories of the Wilson, LaPointe, and Stout families, as well as the innovations and industries that helped shape our community.

Admission:

Adults $15

Seniors (65+) $10

Students $10

Purchase tickets HERE.

NEW Tour - BELOW THE MANSION: A WORKING HISTORY TOUR

Friday, June 26

Saturday, June 27

Sunday, June 28

Tour Times: 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM

Explore areas of the museum rarely seen by the public. This small-group guided tour takes visitors through the lower level of the Wilson Place featuring:

An 1800s general store display
Historic woodworking shop
Logging and farming tools
Early Menomonie artifacts
Stories of everyday work and life in Dunn County

Space is limited to 8 guests per tour.

Purchase tickets HERE.

Dinner, Music & Memories: Celebrating 50 Years of Wilson Place

Friday, June 26

6:00 PM

Enjoy an elegant evening on the lawn of the Wilson Place Museum featuring a catered dinner, wine service, and beautiful views of Menomonie’s historic east side. The evening serves as the kickoff celebration for the museum's 50th Anniversary weekend.

Advance reservations required.

7:00 PM

JASON DAE WEST LIVE IN CONCERT

National touring singer-songwriter Jason Dae West performs an intimate outdoor concert on the Wilson Place grounds. Bring a lawn chair and enjoy an evening of music overlooking Lake Menomin.

Purchase tickets HERE.

Wilson Place 50th Anniversary Afternoon Tea

Dates & Time

Saturday, June 27, 2026 – 12:00 PM (Noon)

Sunday, June 28, 2026 – 12:00 PM (Noon)

Celebrate 50 years of Wilson Place Museum with an elegant Afternoon Tea served on the historic terrace and front lawn of the mansion.

Guests are invited to step back in time and enjoy a relaxing summer afternoon featuring fine teas, savory tea sandwiches, and delightful sweets in a beautiful Victorian setting. Period attire, garden party attire, and fancy hats are encouraged—but not required—for those who wish to add a touch of historic charm to the occasion.

As you enjoy tea among the gardens and historic grounds, learn about the remarkable story of Wilson Place and the community members whose dedication has preserved this Menomonie landmark for the past fifty years.

Whether you are a longtime supporter, a lover of history, or simply looking for a unique afternoon with friends, this special anniversary tea offers a memorable way to celebrate one of Menomonie's treasured historic sites.

Your Ticket Includes:

Afternoon tea service
A fine selection of tea sandwiches
Assorted desserts and pastries

Dress Attire

Victorian attire, vintage-inspired clothing, garden party attire, and fancy hats are welcome and encouraged, though not required.

Location

Wilson Place Museum Menomonie, Wisconsin

Purchase tickets HERE.

Wilson Place KIDS & FAMILY DAY

Saturday, June 27

11:00 AM–6:00 PM

A day designed especially for families featuring:

Historic games and activities
Share your stories of Menomonie
Ice cream and popcorn
Museum tours
Time Capsule activities

TIME CAPSULE PROJECT

Friday–Sunday

Help create a lasting record of life in Menomonie in 2026. Visitors can write letters to themselves, their families, or future generations that will become part of the Wilson Place Time Capsule Project.

Participants may choose:

10-Year Letter to Your Future Self
50-Year Letter to Your Future Family
100-Year Letter to the Future Menomonie Community

Find more information about the Wilson Place Mansion on its website and Facebook page.