Franklin Historical Society

important dates in history

  • July 4, 2006
    City of Franklin celebrates its 50th Anniversary
  • July 1969
    Franklin Historical Society becomes incorporated as nonprofit organization.
  • August 14, 1956
    Franklin residents vote to incorporate as a city.
  • August 31, 1962
    Franklin High School opens.

upcoming events

  • OPEN HOUSE
    Historical Building Tours in Legend Park
    Sunday, June 28 - 2:30-4 p.m.
    Saturday, July 4 - 12:30-4:30 p.m.
    Sunday, July 12 - 2:30-4 p.m.
    Sunday, Aug. 2 - 2:30-4 p.m.
    Sunday, Aug. 23 - 2:30-4 p.m.
  • 2nd Annual Oktoberfest
    Thursday, October 22
    Root River Center,
    7220 W. Rawson Ave.

welcome

Welcome to the Franklin Historical Society website. It is our goal to preserve and promote Franklin's long, proud history. We invite you to visit the four historic buildings in Lions Legend Park and participate in our community activities. New members to our nonprofit organization are always welcomed.

Mission Statement

Since its beginning, the Franklin Historical Society has sought to collect, document and preserve local history, inspire reading programs at local schools and maintain living museums in Legend Park for community awareness and fulfillment.

the franklin historical society

The Franklin Historical Society evolved from an adult education class taught by Al Block, Director of Instruction, at Franklin High School in January 1969. Dennis Horvath served as acting chairman when the FHS was organized on February 5, 1969, and the first board of directors was elected that April with John Kamper as president. The Society was incorporated as a nonprofit organization in July 1969 and became an affiliate of the Wisconsin State Historical Society the following year.

what's new?

The 2009 Annual Meeting featured a panel discussion by community members who shared their memories of how Franklin has changed over the past 50 years. Historical Society President Doug Schmidt (far right) moderated the panelists who included (from left) Vernin Tretow, Franklin Engineer Jack Bennett and Delores Nitz. Doug With the Panel

living museums

Whelan School Living History Experience

Teachers are invited to sign up their elementary class for a day of learning in a rural one room school setting. Contact Barbara Pforr at Bap4@earthlink.net for more details.

chapel weddings

Couples interested in a quaint chapel wedding ceremony are welcomed to rent the St. Peters Chapel for such a service. The chapel holds up to 50 guests and an organist is available if requested. For reservations, contact Barbara Pforr at Bap4@earthlink.net.