Visit Wisconsin's Maritime Trails

Founded in 1958 by several inhabitants of the island, the Madeline Island Historical Museum is today maintained by the Wisconsin Historical Society. Exhibits of rare and one-of-a-kind artifacts, most of them found on Madeline Island or one of the surrounding islands that dot Chequamegon Bay, illuminate the story of the area's exploration and settlement, from prehistory to the present day. Prehistoric relics from the days of Ojibwe habitation rest alongside trade goods, missionaries' effects, tools of the lumbering and maritime industries, and other remnants of human habitation on the island.

The museum grounds are comprised of the original log museum building and the new Capser Center, which contain an auditorium, a multi-purpose room for public history programs, space for care and preservation of the collections and an exhibit fabrication shop, all which contribute to telling the story of this unique island community. On your next trip to Wisconsin's northern coast, board a Madeline Island Ferry for a pleasant cruise into Wisconsin's Great Lakes past, and relive the whole saga.