The One Small Town In Wisconsin With More Historic Buildings Than Any Other
By Ben Jones|Published September 21, 2022
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Ben Jones
Author
Ben Jones is at heart an adventurer who delights in inspiring others. A former reporter and photojournalist, he explored towns large and small as a Wisconsin correspondent for USA Today. He later became a lead photographer and senior copywriter for an award-winning destination marketing agency, before founding Boldland Creative, a company that produces photography, video, and other content for travel destinations. Jones has completed photography and content projects in more than 15 states and when he’s not looking through a camera or at his Macbook you’ll find him exploring the world’s lakes and forests.
There’s a little town tucked into the Kettle Moraine State Forest where nothing is new. To visit Old World Wisconsin is to travel back in time – the historical village is a collection of some of the most historic buildings in Wisconsin, and it’s all open for you to explore. It’s an experience like no other and a must-visit spot in southeast Wisconsin. Here’s what you need to know about Old World Wisconsin.
Old World Wisconsin is located near the little community of Eagle. It’s in Waukesha County, and it’s considered part of the greater Milwaukee Metro area, so it’s an easy day trip from Milwaukee and surrounding communities.
While the village here looks very old, it’s actually is not quite as old as it looks. Old World Wisconsin opened in 1976, one of many historical enterprises that launched when the Untied States celebrated its 200th birthday.
The park came to be largely because of the efforts of two men: German immigrant Hans Kuether and architect Richard W. E. Perrin. The project was inspired by similar outdoor museums in Europe.
The state Department of Natural Resources transferred land from the Kettle Moraine State Forest to make the little town possible. While the town is relatively new, it has many structures that are much, much older.
Old buildings were moved from all over Wisconsin to bring this historical town to life. There are 60 historic structures, including primitive farmsteads, rustic outbuildings, and a recreated 1880s crossroads village.
The park is divided into themes that represent typical settlements from various immigrant cultures. It’s a chance to see how various groups of people made a new life in the wilds of Wisconsin.
Old World Wisconsin is open in spring, summer, and fall. Tickets are required – see a schedule and ticket information on the Old World Wisconsin website. While you’re in the area, you might want to enjoy this spectacular scenic drive.
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