Visit Us
Step into the stories of Portage County’s past by visiting one of our historic sites. From restored buildings and engaging exhibits to hands-on activities and special events, the Portage County Historical Society offers unique experiences for visitors of all ages. Whether you're a local resident, a family looking for a weekend outing, or a history enthusiast passing through, our sites offer a window into the people, places, and traditions that have shaped this region for generations. Plan your visit today and discover how history lives on in Portage County.
If you'd like to arrange a group tour, please email education@pchswi.org.​​​​​​​
​​​​​​​​​Heritage Park​​​​​
Located at 2700 Madison Avenue, Plover, WI
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Heritage Park is home to 11 historic buildings, moved to the property from throughout Portage County, immersive exhibits, and seasonal programming for all ages.​
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Fall 2025 Hours (Labor Day–Thanksgiving):
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Fridays: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
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Saturdays: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
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What’s Open:
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General Store Gift Shop
Step into a fully restored early 20th-century general store and browse our selection of dozens of local history books, PCHS Merchandise, historical photographs, and more! Don't forget to stop at the candy counter during your visit! -
2025-2026 Feature Exhibit – Rhythms of the River: The History of Music in Portage County
Discover the sounds and stories that shaped our region.
Admission: $5 / Free for PCHS members​
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Can't make it, but you'd still like to see some of our spaces here? Check out our virtual tours! These can be viewed on your computer, phone, or even with a VR headset.
How to take a virtual tour video link
Old Methodist Church: This tour takes you through the Church when it had the feature exhibit We Just Wanted to Play inside. Tour link
Hei Corners School: This one-room schoolhouse is used by local elementary students every year. Take a look at this historic schoolhouse using the tour link.
Rising Star Mill
Located at 3190 County Road Q in Nelsonville
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Open by Appointment or During Special Events
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Built in 1868, the Rising Star Mill is one of Wisconsin’s last remaining grist mills of its kind.
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Available for private tours by appointment - email education@pchswi.org
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Hosts select events including our Music at the Mill Concert Series
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Rental available for weddings, photography sessions, and other private events - Book Now!
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Can't make it, but you'd still like to see the space? Take a virtual tour of the mill using the link below!
How to take a virtual tour video link
Rising Star Mill virtual tour link
Beth Israel Synagogue Museum
Located at 1475 Water Street in Stevens Point
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Open by Appointment Only
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The Beth Israel Synagogue Museum serves as an educational resource exploring the history of Stevens Point’s once-thriving Jewish community. Built in 1905, it is the third-oldest synagogue building in Wisconsin—and the oldest with its original sanctuary still intact. Through interpretive displays and preserved architectural features, visitors gain insight into the cultural and religious life of one of the region’s immigrant communities.
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Not able to visit, but you'd still like to see the space? Check out our virtual tour using the link below!
How to take a virtual tour video link
Beth Israel Synagogue virtual tour link
Firehouse No. 2
Located at 1949 Strongs Avenue in Stevens Point
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Currently Closed to the Public
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This site is not currently open for tours. Stay tuned for future updates.
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Would you like to see inside the building? Check out our virtual tour using the link below!
How to take a virtual tour video link
Historic Firehouse #2 virtual tour link