The Ashland Historical Museum
This was the website for the Ashland Historical Society Museum for a number of years, starting in 2004 when the museum was still located at 509 West Main Street in Ashland, WI. The content below is from the site's archived pages.
If you are a history buff, this is just the type of small town historical society museum that gives you a glimpse into the everyday lives of the peoples of Ashland WI. I love searching out the history of small towns in the US. Recently I was sent to Duluth WI. to speak with a client regarding the work being done by their new SEO service, the notable NYC search performance shop run by Bob Sakayama, TNG/Earthling, Inc.. I felt completely out of my league trying to assess their work, but it turned out to be fantastic learning experience for me. Working with a super competent contractor makes everyone's life easy and I really appreciate some of the insights just looking at TNG/E's work allowed me. My client understood exactly where I was coming from and since their ranks had already started climbing, the pressure was off and I really did not need to run any interventions. I wound up business in a couple of days and then took a trip to the port city of Ashland on the shores of Lake Superior. I spent the afternoon at the museum and even checked out their Gift Shop which featured interesting gifts for an especially nice remembrance of Ashland: Mural Walk tiles and note cards, tee shirts, the year I went, an Ashland calendar, recalling “Ashland’s History, One Day at a Time;” as well as books by area authors. There were even DVD slide shows and home movies: “Ashland Lake Scenes,” “Glimpses of Ashland’s Past,” and “Reflections of 2nd Street,” with then and now photos. All fascination. I brought back an Ashland calendar that recalled “Ashland’s History, One Day at a Time” for my client as a thank you for turning me on to their amazing new SEOs.
If you just happen upon this site, enjoy your nostalgic look back to when this was the Ashland Museum's Historical Society's website.
The museum's current location is below. Its current website is at www.ashlandwihistory.com/​
216 Main Street West
Ashland, WI 54806
15-682-4911
Open Monday - Friday 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Open Saturday (from June through Whistle Stop weekend, mid-October) from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Welcome to Ashland Museum Web Site!
Circa 2003
2003 Museum Hours
Winter hours - Monday thru Friday- 10 to 2 or by appointment
Summer Hours- Monday thru Friday- 10 to 4, Saturday 10 to 2 or by appointment
2003 Museum Fees: Price of admission for non-members
$3.00 - per adult
$2.50 - senior citizen 62 and up
$1.00 - per child
Circa 2006
No Admission Fee - Donations Welcome
Museum Hours:
Monday thru Friday- 10 to 4
Other hours by appointment
Circa 2007
NEWS
Ashland 2007 Calendars Available
The 2007 calendar produced by the Ashland Historical Society, Museum volunteers, and Museum Curator Sharon Manthei is now available. This year’s calendar features the history of Ashland one day at a time for 365 days.
History begins with 1854 and goes through the present with photos, old time ads, and fun facts and quips. This calendar is truly a collectible and will surely be as entertaining as past calendars. Hurry to the Ashland Historical Society Museum at 509 W. Main Street to purchase a calendar before the supplies run out. The gift shop also has for sale the collectible ornament
featuring the Ashland Band Shell.
Fund Drive
Fund Drive: The annual fund drive has begun. The committee is asking for your help to ensure that the Museum/Society continues to meet your expectations in preserving artifacts, displaying exhibits & reaching the community in awareness of our rich & colorful history. You may use the donation form provided.
+++
Mission Statement:
The Ashland Historical Society, A non-profit volunteer organization promotes the appreciation and pride of community through a visual connection to the past by collecting and preserving memorabilia and artifacts, stories and traditions and by functioning as an educational resource. The Ashland Museum in Ashland Wisconsin is the repository for all historical memorabilia and artifacts collected by the Ashland Historical Society./h3>
+++
Sorry there were no archived images to post with these descriptions.
 |
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
+++
Ashland’s Beginnings
By Sharon Manthei
Ashland, Wisconsin is located at the head of Chequamegon Bay of Lake Superior. When the Chippewa people came to this area, about the time when Columbus discovered America, they named it Szah-guh-wah-mih-koong, which was later translated as Chequamegon. By breaking down the syllables, translators of the Chippewa tongue say that the word means the “region of shallow water” or “shoal water”. Anyone who has been on Chequamegon Bay knows that description aptly applies to Chequamegon Bay. The Chippewa people lived in the Chequamegon Area only about 120 years, and then moved to the “Soo”. While at the Soo, the Chippewa people often returned for the great hunting and fishing at what they regarded as their Chequamegon Resort. It wasn’t until about 1690 the Chippewa returned to Chequamegon permanently.
The first white men to arrive on Chequamegon Bay were voyagers and missionaries. The French fur traders Radisson and Groseilliers were the first recorded white men to visit the area. They set up a camp at the head of the bay between the mouths of Fish Creek and Whittlesey Creek. They spent the winter of 1659-1660 exploring the area and trapping beaver for their prime pelts. At this time in history; the bay was encircled by several nations of Indians, which included Hurons, three branches of Ottawas, Ousakis or Sauks, Outagamies or Fox and Illinois. Radisson and Groseilliers camp was between the Hurons and an Ottawas camps. A Brownstone marker was erected at the site in 1929. Because of Highway reconstruction, this marker has been moved to Maslowski Bathing Beach closer to Ashland.
When priest-explorer, Allouez, arrived at Chequamegon with a half dozen other Frenchmen in 1665, they found the Indian nations still in the area. With 4,000 Indians of seven nationalities, Allouez established the mission of the Holy Ghost between two of the larger villages, very near where Radisson and Groseilliers camp had been. Father Marquette followed closely behind Allouez, arriving in 1669 and continuing the Mission of the Holy Ghost. He remained here for two years until the Sioux forced everyone out of the area.
Text or graphics may not be copied, rewritten or distributed in any manner whatsoever unless specifically noted, and may not be reused, reprinted, or reposted without written permission.
+++
A Short History of the Ashland Museum
The existence of the Ashland Museum was first noted in 1909 with a letter written by the director of the Historical Museum of the city of Ashland. It was located in the Ashland High School building on Ellis Avenue between tenth and eleventh streets. The letter states that they had valuable donations of historical and archeological material from Beloit College, the Wisconsin Historical Society and the Milwaukee Museum.
The next evidence of efforts in preserving Ashland’s history came from the minutes of the Old Settler’s Club of Ashland, organized in 1924. They were diligent in staging picnics and gatherings where old stories could be told and re-told. They also worked to document the events of early Ashland. In 1925 their meetings were held in the community room of the First National Bank.
In 1954, Miss Cora Angvick put together a historical display in their furniture store in connection with the Centennial of the founding of Ashland. She gathered old photographs, and artifacts to create an exhibit in Anvick's old storefront. When the celebration was over, the exhibit was moved to the new store’s basement to be enjoyed by all who dropped by.
In about 1962, the Museum was moved to the Vaughn Library building, under the advisement of Dr. John Kreher. This proved to be a wise move when the Angvick’s Store burned to the ground in June of 1967. The Museum was housed at the library until the 1980’s, when the Vaughn Library was remodeled. Following the remodeling at the library, the Museum was housed on the second floor until 1993.
The next home for the Ashland Museum was the Wilmarth Mansion at 523 Chapple Avenue. This spacious home with its beautiful woodwork was a wonderful setting for the Museum until problems with the roof and leakage damage caused the Historical Society to once again search out an appropriate and affordable home for its vast collections.
In February of 2000, the Ashland Museum moved to its present spot at 509 West Main Street, housed in the historic business section of Ashland. Due to space restraints, not all the collections are out at one time, but displays are rotated to provide interest throughout the year.
+++
King’s Official Route Guide
By Sharon Manthei
Today, when planning a trip, we might go to a Travel Agent, check with AAA or surf the internet for the best way to find or travel to our destination. Back in the early days of motor cars, motorists could purchase King‘s Official Route Guide to plan their trip. This interesting book, written for the motorist (the Ashland Museums copy is from 1917) traveling throughout Wisconsin, NE Illinois & Eastern Minnesota, guides you mile by tenths of a mile from city to city noting the types of pavement, R. R. crossings, bridges and buildings, businesses, places of interest, dangerous curves and intersections, crossroads and grades of hills along the way.
.0 Leave the Court House on right on West Second St following trolley on asphalt pavement, to 4 corners (immediately passing Post Office on right), (Public Park on near right corner).
.3 Turn left with one branch of trolley on Seventh Ave. (asphalt pavement), to 4 corners.
.4 Turn right on Third St. (leaving trolley).
.5 Pass fire engine house on left.
1.0 Cross R. R.
1.2 Cross R. R. switch, straight ahead, through cross roads, cross trolley.
1.4 Shortly bear right with road, down easy grade, towards Chequamegon Bay.
This description of the “Kings” recommended route from Ashland to Bayfield continues bringing you along the Bay Front, passing the road to Iron River, to Nash station, Barksdale, Washburn, Sioux River, Chequamegon Springs, Pikes Bay and Quarry, passing the road to Cornucopia, Salmo, Pikes Creek, State Fish Hatchery and into Bayfield.
It is interesting to note that the trip from Ashland to Bayfield begins and ends at the County Court House, yet the trip from Ashland to Mellen begins at the County Courthouse and the return trip brings you either to the County Courthouse or to the Ashland Garage. Maybe the trip to Mellen and back was harder on the motor car and maintenance was required. The Ashland Garage even had an advertisement on the page.
Note that in 1917, the County Court House was just two years old and is the Court House that still stands today on Main Street between 2nd and 3rd Avenues West, and the Post Office was located at 601 West Main Street, which is now the Ashland City Hall. The Ashland Garage stood on the corner of 2nd Avenue East and Main Street, which is now a part of Zifko Tire and Battery Supply.
More Background On AshlandHistory.com
AshlandHistory.com is an archival website that once served as the official digital presence of the Ashland Historical Society Museum in Ashland, Wisconsin. Emerging in the early 2000s—an era when small museums and local organizations were just beginning to embrace the internet—the site functioned as a bridge between traditional historical preservation and the growing accessibility of digital information. Although no longer actively maintained, its archived pages remain a valuable resource for understanding both the history of Ashland and the evolution of community-driven web publishing.
The website captured the spirit of a local historical institution deeply rooted in its community. It provided access to curated historical narratives, institutional updates, and detailed accounts of Ashland’s buildings, businesses, and cultural landmarks. Today, AshlandHistory.com stands as both a historical archive and a digital time capsule reflecting early 21st-century approaches to storytelling and preservation.
Organizational Ownership and Mission
The site was operated by the Ashland Historical Society, a nonprofit organization committed to preserving and promoting the heritage of Ashland and the surrounding region along Lake Superior’s Chequamegon Bay. The Society’s mission centered on fostering community pride and historical awareness by collecting artifacts, preserving stories, and providing educational resources.
The museum itself has long functioned as a repository of local memory. Through its exhibits and programming, it connects residents and visitors with the social, economic, and cultural evolution of the region. The website extended this mission beyond the museum’s physical walls, making historical knowledge accessible to a broader audience, including researchers, genealogists, students, and tourists.
Geographic Context and Location Significance
Ashland, Wisconsin, is situated at the head of Chequamegon Bay on Lake Superior, one of North America’s most historically significant freshwater regions. The area has long been a crossroads of Indigenous cultures, European exploration, and industrial development. Its strategic location contributed to its growth as a hub for shipping, lumber, and railroads during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The museum’s physical locations over time—including its earlier home on West Main Street and its current site at 216 Main Street West—place it within the historic downtown district. This proximity allows visitors to explore many of the very sites discussed in the museum’s exhibits and on its website, creating a layered experience where digital and physical histories intersect.
Nearby points of interest include Bayfield and the Apostle Islands, which are closely tied to Ashland’s maritime history, as well as regional institutions like Northland College, whose campus buildings and historical narratives frequently appear in the museum’s materials.
Website Content and Structure
AshlandHistory.com was structured in a straightforward, informational format typical of early 2000s websites. Navigation was simple, often consisting of static pages with minimal graphical design. Despite its simplicity, the site contained a wealth of detailed historical content.
Historical Building Profiles
One of the most distinctive features of the site was its extensive catalog of local buildings and businesses. Each entry offered a concise yet informative narrative tracing the evolution of a specific location over time. These profiles often included:
-
Original construction dates
-
Names of early owners or operators
-
Changes in use over decades
-
Connections to broader economic or social trends
For example, former theaters, gas stations, department stores, and hotels were documented not just as structures but as living parts of the community’s history. These entries provided insight into how Ashland’s downtown evolved in response to shifting industries and cultural patterns.
Community Narratives and Essays
The website also featured longer-form historical essays that contextualized Ashland’s development within regional and national history. Topics included early Indigenous presence, European exploration, and the growth of infrastructure and commerce.
These narratives often highlighted key figures such as missionaries, traders, and early settlers, as well as important events that shaped the community. By combining storytelling with factual detail, the site made local history accessible and engaging for a general audience.
Institutional Information
In addition to historical content, the website included practical information about the museum itself. This ranged from operating hours and admission policies to announcements about fundraising efforts and community events.
At various points in its history, the museum transitioned from charging modest admission fees to adopting a donation-based model. This shift reflected a broader trend among small museums seeking to increase accessibility while relying on community support.
News and Updates
Archived pages reveal a section dedicated to news and updates, including announcements about new exhibits, special projects, and fundraising campaigns. These updates provide valuable insight into the museum’s ongoing efforts to maintain and expand its collections.
One notable example is the promotion of annual calendars featuring “Ashland’s History, One Day at a Time,” which combined historical facts, photographs, and anecdotes into a collectible format. Such initiatives demonstrate how the museum engaged the community while generating revenue to support its mission.
Historical Depth and Local Insights
What sets AshlandHistory.com apart from many other small historical websites is the depth and specificity of its content. Rather than offering broad overviews, the site delved into granular details about individual properties, businesses, and community developments.
This level of detail reflects the museum’s commitment to preserving not just major historical events but also the everyday experiences of residents. By documenting changes in storefronts, ownership, and usage, the site paints a vivid picture of how the town evolved over time.
The inclusion of lesser-known stories—such as the transformation of buildings from one function to another or the impact of fires and economic shifts—adds richness and authenticity to the historical record.
Cultural and Social Significance
The Ashland Historical Society Museum, and by extension its website, plays a crucial role in preserving the cultural identity of the region. In smaller communities, where histories are often passed down through oral tradition, institutions like this serve as essential custodians of collective memory.
AshlandHistory.com contributed to this mission by making historical information widely accessible. It allowed residents to explore their heritage, reconnect with familiar landmarks, and gain a deeper understanding of their community’s roots.
For visitors and researchers, the site offered a gateway to a lesser-known but historically rich region. It highlighted Ashland’s role in broader narratives of American expansion, industrialization, and cultural exchange.
Audience and Reach
The website’s audience was diverse, reflecting the wide appeal of local history. Key user groups included:
-
Local residents seeking to learn more about their community
-
Former residents reconnecting with their hometown
-
Historians and researchers studying regional development
-
Tourists planning visits to Ashland and surrounding areas
-
Educators and students using the site as a learning resource
Although the site did not achieve widespread national recognition, it held significant value within its niche. Its longevity and preservation through archival tools suggest that it was frequently accessed and appreciated by those interested in Ashland’s history.
Museum Experience and Offerings
Beyond its digital presence, the Ashland Historical Society Museum offers a tangible, immersive experience. Visitors can explore rotating exhibits featuring artifacts, photographs, and documents that bring the town’s history to life.
The museum’s gift shop has historically played an important role in enhancing the visitor experience. Items such as historical calendars, locally authored books, postcards, and themed memorabilia provide meaningful souvenirs while supporting the museum’s operations.
Multimedia offerings, including DVD slide shows and historical footage, further enrich the experience by providing visual and auditory perspectives on the past.
Press, Media, and Community Engagement
While large-scale media coverage of the museum may be limited, its impact is evident in local and regional contexts. Small historical societies often receive attention through community newspapers, tourism guides, and educational programs.
The museum’s engagement with the community is reflected in its fundraising efforts, volunteer involvement, and collaborative projects. Annual fund drives and special initiatives demonstrate a strong reliance on local support, reinforcing the sense of shared ownership and responsibility.
Events such as lectures, exhibitions, and seasonal programming help maintain the museum’s relevance and visibility, ensuring that it remains an active part of the community rather than a static repository.
Evolution and Transition
Over time, the Ashland Historical Society Museum updated its digital presence, transitioning to a newer website that reflects modern design standards and expanded functionality. This shift mirrors broader trends in web development, where early static sites have been replaced by more dynamic and user-friendly platforms.
Despite this transition, AshlandHistory.com remains an important historical artifact. Its archived pages provide insight into how the museum presented itself during a specific period and how digital tools were used to support historical preservation.
Educational Value and Research Applications
AshlandHistory.com serves as a valuable resource for educational and research purposes. Its detailed entries and primary-source-like narratives offer insights that may not be readily available in larger, more generalized databases.
For students, the site provides an accessible introduction to local history and the methods used to document it. For researchers, it offers a starting point for deeper investigations into specific buildings, businesses, or historical events.
The site’s emphasis on storytelling also highlights the importance of narrative in historical interpretation, demonstrating how facts can be woven into engaging and meaningful accounts.
Digital Preservation and Legacy
The continued availability of AshlandHistory.com through archival platforms underscores the importance of digital preservation. As websites evolve or disappear, archived versions become critical for maintaining access to historical information.
In this sense, the site is not only a record of Ashland’s past but also a testament to the early efforts of small organizations to leverage the internet for educational and cultural purposes. It reflects a moment in time when digital tools were beginning to democratize access to history.
Reviews and Public Perception
Although formal online reviews of AshlandHistory.com are limited, the broader reputation of the Ashland Historical Society Museum is generally positive. Visitors to similar institutions often praise their authenticity, educational value, and community focus.
The website itself likely served as an extension of this reputation, offering a preview of the museum’s offerings and reinforcing its role as a trusted source of local history.
AshlandHistory.com is more than just an outdated website—it is a rich, multifaceted resource that captures the essence of a community’s commitment to preserving its past. Through its detailed content, accessible format, and integration with the Ashland Historical Society Museum, the site played a significant role in documenting and sharing the history of Ashland, Wisconsin.
Its legacy continues through archived versions and the ongoing work of the museum, which remains a vital cultural institution. By examining AshlandHistory.com, one gains not only a deeper understanding of Ashland’s history but also an appreciation for the ways in which local organizations have embraced digital tools to tell their stories.