Our History

The Three Lakes Historical Museum was founded in 1981 and the Three Lakes Historical Society in 1984 as part of the Three Lakes Centennial Celebration. The museum was originally located in the Chicago and North Western railroad depot but was on the look-out for a new building. In 1982 the Three Lakes Historical Museum found a new home in the Johnson House, one of the oldest home in Three Lakes. The Museum Welcome Center and archives share a space with Demmer Memorial Library. The Museum offers an extensive overview of Three Lakes and its people in seven distinct exhibit buildings. The collections narrate the history of the Three Lakes area. 
"We walk in the footsteps of the past to build a path to the future."

Our Mission

The mission of the Three Lakes Historical Society is to inspire an appreciation of the values and heritage of the Three Lakes area. We pledge to preserve, exhibit, and engage our community and its visitors in our local history.

Our Vision

It is our vision to be the place where Three Lakes archives, honors, and celebrates our local people and history as a foundation for future generations.

Our Values

As a Society, we value:
  • Preservation of authentic story lines;
  • Experiential activities that lead to active engagement;
  • Stewardship of museum buildings, artifacts, human, and financial resources
1981 - Centennial Museum at the former Chicago & Northwestern Depot

1982 - Move to 1882 Johnson House

1986 - Johnson House set back from street onto new foundation

1990 - Replica CCC barracks building built from CCC-planted trees and C&NW railroad ties

1996 - Built community gazebo in Cy Williams Park

1998 - Major renovation of Johnson House for safety of visitors

1998 - Disassembled & relocated 1903 Grosman cabin to museum grounds

1999 - Added granary building to form Pioneer Village

2001 - Added sawmill shop building as a country store

2002 - Built Goldsworthy Exhibit Hall for more exhibit space and a workshop

​2019 - New Welcome Center & offices in Demmer Library expansion
The Three Lakes Historical Society is incorporated as a non-profit, 501(c)3 corporation and is governed by a volunteer board of directors. All donations made to the Three Lakes Historical Society and Museum can be considered tax deductible as per the United States IRS tax code.