Join a Society With a Cause, and Have Fun, Too

The Port Washington Historical Society — who are we?

When you hear the name "Port Washington Historical Society" do you immediately run the other way? Do you think it is for "golden agers" or just Mensa candidates?  Do you picture dry, dusty, antique-filled libraries and just yawn? 

Well, guess again! 

We are a group of citizens from Ozaukee County — many of whom grew up in Port — and others who have made this city their home. We all have one thing in common — that is, we simply take an interest in our community’s history and are dedicated to preserving that history and its buildings through action and education. 

Our city’s history is extremely rich. Founded in 1835, a few short months before the City of Milwaukee, we have been a doggedly determined and very enterprising community.  Our society’s quarterly meetings present entertaining topics about our heritage — from the auto dealerships and gas stations that profusely dotted the area to the many, many taverns and saloons of early Port Washington. 

As a member of our Society, we welcome your participation in any or all of our events — whether that means attending our educational programs, or .  The rewards of membership are many, from enriching your own knowledge of this beautiful city’s past, to teaching school children about life in the 1860s through a tour of the Light Station, to the satisfaction of helping with a project such as preparing maritime displays or even perhaps saving a building from destruction! 

There is no age requirement to being a member, and we would welcome more of the younger families of our community to become a part of what, for 20 years, has been a truly great endeavor — preserving our past and building our future.

Kathie Gordon, Secretary
Port Washington Historical Society Board of Directors