Marshfield Celebrates History Month

​Marshfield Now! News
By David Ballerstein - Marshfield Now!
Marshfield Celebrates History Month This May with Tours, Exhibits, and Community Events
Marshfield, WI – April 21, 2025 — As spring blooms in Marshfield, so too does a renewed celebration of the city’s rich history. The Historic Preservation Commission, alongside local organizations like the North Wood County Historical Society and the Historic Preservation Association of Marshfield, is gearing up for a full slate of activities during May — officially recognized as History Month in Marshfield.
During a recent broadcast of Marshfield Now on Marshfield Broadcasting, Ken and Chris from the Historic Preservation Committee joined host David Ballerstein to share details about the upcoming events and ongoing preservation efforts across the city.
Historic District Tours and Signage
Throughout May, residents and visitors are encouraged to explore Marshfield’s historic districts. Volunteers will place identifying signs on select properties across five main districts, including Fifth and Sixth Street on the west side, Pleasant Hill, the Upham District, and Park Street. These signs help showcase the city’s historic architecture and notable past residents. Free maps for self-guided walking or driving tours are available at local institutions such as the Chamber of Commerce, City Hall, the public library, and area hotels.
Events at the Upham Mansion
One of the major highlights of History Month is the lineup of events at the historic Upham Mansion. On Thursday, May 1st at 5:30 p.m., the mansion will host a reception to unveil the “Timeless Treasures” exhibit — a collection of antique American clocks and memorabilia from local merchants.
Tours of the mansion will be available every Wednesday and Saturday from 1:30 to 4 p.m. Third graders from the Marshfield School District will also enjoy special educational visits throughout the month. History Month festivities culminate in the 46th Annual Pie and Ice Cream Social on May 31st, part of Dairy Fest. The community is invited to enjoy live music, self-guided tours, raffle baskets, and a silent auction to support the mansion’s upkeep.
Cemetery Reenactments and Educational Programs
On May 23rd, the public is invited to a unique historical reenactment at a local cemetery, where volunteers portray key figures from Marshfield’s past — including Civil War veteran Gabriel Dolph Lupien and the spirited Mrs. Connor. These live portrayals, traditionally attended by third-grade students, offer engaging lessons in local and national history.
Library and Museum Exhibits
The Everett Roehl Marshfield Public Library and the lower-level Interactive Heritage Museum are also joining the celebration. The library will host a student art showcase, including the middle school’s “Past, Present, and Future” history exhibit and a third-grade coloring contest honoring historian Ken Wood. Meanwhile, the museum’s exhibits, including a military tribute titled “Lest We Forget,” will be open on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 1:30 to 4 p.m.
Preserving the Past for the Future
Ken and Chris emphasized the importance of preserving historical structures and artifacts — from city landmarks like the Columbia Park Bandshell to smaller treasures like letters from World War I, recently discovered during an estate sale.
“We’re always looking for volunteers,” said Chris. “Whether it’s baking a pie, planting flowers, or helping catalog artifacts, there’s a place for everyone who wants to help preserve Marshfield’s story.”
All events are either free or donation-based, supporting the continued efforts of Marshfield’s historical organizations.
For more information or to get involved, residents are encouraged to visit the Historic Preservation Committee’s page on the city’s website or contact the North Wood County Historical Society directly.

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