Supporting Historical Research

Our History Center and Archives is #14 in the statewide network of Area Research Centers (ARC’s) operated by the Wisconsin Historical Society (WHS). The ARC’s bring historical records to the people of Wisconsin. Working cooperatively, the network’s partners identify, collect, organize and preserve records documenting Wisconsin’s heritage.

Serving Nine Wisconsin Counties

We serve Ashland, Bayfield, Forest, Iron, Oneida, Price, Sawyer, Vilas, and Washburn counties. We house a variety of public records and private manuscript collections. To view a listing of our catalog, visit our Web site.

Genealogical Records

Items of most use and interest for genealogical researchers include naturalization records; pre-1907 registrations of births, deaths, and marriages; census records for each of the nine counties as well as Native American census rolls for Northern Wisconsin tribes; area newspapers on microfilm; court and tax records; and Ashland City Directories.

Local History References

We have a local history reference collection, maps and numerous manuscript collections available for scholarly research.

Accessing Collections

In addition to the collections housed at the History Center and Archives, researchers can access collections from the other ARC’s and from the Wisconsin Historical Society through the ARC network. Visit the Society’s on-line catalog.

Should you find a collection that you are interested in viewing that’s located at another WHS repository, tell us and we’ll have the collection brought to Ashland for your use at no cost. Nominal charges apply for copying and or research that we conduct for patrons; contact us for fee information.

History Center & Archives Contact Information

Visit us in person! We're open Tuesday through Friday, 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. or by appointment. We are closed holidays. If you are driving from any distance please call ahead: Phone: 715-685-2647.