The Land O' Lakes Historical Society

The Land O' Lakes Historical Society was formed in the early 1990's to encourage and advocate historical preservation in the Land O' Lakes area. It incorporated in 1994 as a non-profit 501(c)3 organization.

Our Northern Waters Museum opened a few years later on July 27, 2001. The building is the former Gateway Ski Chalet which was part of the historic Gateway Resort Complex built in the late 1930s.

Our Mission

To identify and preserve the historical heritage of the Land O' Lakes area, and present aesthetically appealing, interactive and educational exhibits which honor, interpret and preserve the unique stories of the Land O' Lakes area for visitors of all ages.

NorthernWaters Museum, Land O' Lakes Wisconsin

Featured Museum Exhibit

The History of Sylvania Wilderness – From Private Ownership (late 1800s) to Protected Wilderness (1987)

New in 2023 — the fascinating history of the beautiful Sylvania Wilderness area! This new exhibit tells the story of the group of wealthy industrialists who purchased the property and largely spared it from the intense logging of the late 1800s and early 1900s. Learn about these “Sylvania Club” men, their background and their use and protection of the Sylvania property. …

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Your Land O' Lakes. Our History. Look Inside.