Step into history and experience life as it was in the 1800s at the Ozaukee Pioneer Village, a captivating outdoor museum owned and operated by the Ozaukee County Historical Society (OCHS). Established in 1960, OCHS is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich heritage of Ozaukee County, Wisconsin. Among its treasured properties, the Pioneer Village stands out as a unique destination where history comes alive.
Located within the scenic Hawthorne Hills County Park in Saukville, the Ozaukee Pioneer Village is a collection of 24 meticulously restored historic structures dating back to 1840. Imagine wandering through authentic buildings, each with its own story to tell, transported from various locations around Ozaukee County and carefully reconstructed to form a representation of a 19th-century village.
The village began with the Ahner House, the first structure relocated and rebuilt in the park in 1962. Since then, it has grown to encompass a diverse range of buildings, offering visitors a comprehensive glimpse into the past. From homes and workshops to public buildings, each structure in the Ozaukee Pioneer Village is furnished with period-appropriate artifacts, providing an immersive and educational experience for all ages.
Open from mid-May through October, the Ozaukee Pioneer Village welcomes thousands of visitors annually. Whether you are seeking a peaceful weekend outing, an enriching educational experience for a school group, or an engaging community event, the village offers something for everyone. Throughout the year, the Ozaukee Pioneer Village hosts a variety of events that further enhance the visitor experience, bringing history to life through demonstrations, activities, and celebrations.
Beyond the Ozaukee Pioneer Village, the Ozaukee County Historical Society also manages the Hazel Wirth Archives and Research Center in Cedarburg, a treasure trove of historical documents and resources, and the Stony Hill School in Fredonia, famous as the site of the first recognized Flag Day observance. However, the Ozaukee Pioneer Village remains a cornerstone of the OCHS, offering a tangible and engaging connection to the past.
To further support their mission and the Ozaukee Pioneer Village, OCHS actively seeks volunteers. If you’re looking for an opportunity to meet new people, have fun, and contribute to the community, consider joining their team. With a planned summer of events and ongoing activities, your help would be greatly appreciated. Visit their volunteer page to learn more and become a part of preserving Ozaukee County’s history.
For hours of operation and further details about visiting the Ozaukee Pioneer Village and other OCHS properties, please refer to the Ozaukee County Historical Society website. Come and explore the Ozaukee Pioneer Village – where history awaits!
