The Door County Historical Society will welcome a special guest to its centennial celebration Wednesday as the organization marks its 100th anniversary. The organization is inviting the community to Heritage Village in Sturgeon Bay for the presentation of the 2026 Reuben Gold Thwaites Trophy for Local History, the Wisconsin Historical Society's highest honor for affiliated local historical organizations.
The traveling trophy, which dates to 1958, recognizes the organization's work in the community over the past five years. The award, which was announced in July, coincided with the Door County Historical Society's efforts to restore the Eagle Bluff Lighthouse to its former glory. The restoration also earned the Door County Historical Society the Historic Rehabilitation Award.
“These awards celebrate what we've accomplished together over the past 100 years,” Door County Historical Society Executive Director Amy Frank said. “They remind us that preserving history isn't just about protecting old buildings or collecting artifacts — it's about connecting people to the stories that define our community.”
Christian Overland, Ruth & Hartley Barker director and chief executive officer of the Wisconsin Historical Society, along with society staff and members of the Board of Curators, will be in attendance for the ceremony, which will take place at 3:30 p.m. at Heritage Village.
