Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Waupaca Historical Society do?
The Waupaca Historical Society preserves, advances and disseminates knowledge of the history of the Waupaca area. We do this through our exhibits at our four historic buildings, through our availability of research materials and services at the Holly History and Genealogy Center, and through our various educational and entertaining programs throughout the year. We also actively collect objects, archival materials and photographs directly related to the history of the Waupaca area. If you've never visited us, please stop into any of our buildings during our open hours or schedule a tour today at 715-256-9980 or director@waupacahistoricalsociety.org.
I'm looking for information on my family or home in the Waupaca area. How can the Waupaca Historical Society help me?
The Waupaca Historical Society's Holly History and Genealogy Center houses a variety of books, maps, papers and photographs pertaining to families, homes, businesses and many other topics in the Waupaca area. It is also home to the Waupaca Area Genealogical Society's collections. The organization's website has a list of some of its materials in its collections. If you would like assistance in your research, please contact the Waupaca Historical Society or, if related to genealogy, the Waupaca Area Genealogical Society here.
What are your open hours?
The Holly History and Genealogy Center is open Wednesdays and Fridays 12-3 p.m. and Thursdays 10 a.m.-2 p.m.. In the summer (June through August), we are open Wednesdays and Fridays 12-4 p.m., Thursdays 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and Saturdays 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
The Hutchinson House is open weekends during the summer (Memorial Day through Labor Day) on Saturdays, Sundays and summer holidays from 1-4 p.m. The King Cottage is open these same hours, as it is located directly behind the Hutchinson House.
The Depot is open Saturdays in the summer (June through August) from 12-5 p.m. It is also open Saturdays, 12-5, in December.
If you are in town during the week and would like to schedule a tour of one of the buildings, please contact the Waupaca Historical Society. The Holly Center and Depot are also available for rental for parties, receptions, meetings, etc.
Upcoming Programs at the Waupaca Historical Society!
- Thurs., October 21, 6 p.m.:
"150 Years of the Railroad in Waupaca" with Mike Kirk at the Depot - Fri., October 29, 4-6 p.m.:
Brat fry at Halloween on Main (find us in front of the library/City Hall on South Main Street!). Children can trick-or-treat at local businesses downtown and enjoy Halloween activities! - Thurs., November 11, 6 p.m.:
"The Legend of Chief Waupaca" with Ray Reser at Danes Hall (301 N. Main Street) - Sat., Dec. 4: Yuletide Trail
Help us preserve your story!
We are collecting memories and stories from the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020-2021. These collections will be preserved at the Holly History and Genealogy Center to help future generations understand this time in Waupaca, our state, and our country. Please consider filling out our survey here!
Surveys can be emailed to director@waupacahistoricalsociety.org
or mailed to WHS, 321 S. Main Street, Waupaca, WI 54981.
2021 Summer Hours (UPDATE!)
Starting June 10, the Holly Center will be open to the public on
Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Fridays from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.
WHS COVID POLICY
Following CDC guidelines, masks are appreciated in all of our buildings. We encourage all visitors to maintain a 6-foot distance from others and remain at home if exposed to COVID-19 or feeling unwell.
Appointments outside of open hours at any WHS buildings can be made by calling the Holly History and Genealogy Center at (715) 256-9980 or emailing
Tracy Behrendt at
