South Wood County Historical Museum announces two new exhibits exploring history, creativity, civic heritage

WISCONSIN RAPIDS – The South Wood County Historical Museum (SWCHM) is pleased to announce two upcoming exhibits that highlight both imaginative visual history and the powerful story of women’s suffrage in Wisconsin. These exhibits will be on display from May through July in both outdoor and indoor gallery spaces.
“Thinking Big Is What We Do” History Walk
May 1 – July 31
Visitors are invited to explore Thinking Big Is What We Do, an outdoor History Walk featuring large-scale reproductions of historic tall-tale postcards. This engaging display is accessible at any time on the Museum grounds and invites visitors to experience history in a playful, open-air setting.
Tall-tale postcards became popular in the early twentieth century, using manipulated photographic techniques in which artists combined multiple images to create exaggerated and whimsical scenes — where strawberries grow to the size of boulders and fishermen wrestle with oversized catches.

The display showcases the creativity and humor of early photographic manipulation and is part of the Wisconsin Historical Society’s “History Makers Tour.”
“We Stand on Their Shoulders:” A History of Wisconsin Women and Voting
May 5 – June 28
Brazeau Gallery, SWCHM
Inside the Museum, We Stand on Their Shoulders tells the powerful story of Wisconsin women’s fight for political equality. Through an in-depth timeline and reproductions of 21 historic photographs and documents, the exhibit traces the efforts, challenges and achievements of women who worked to secure voting rights and greater civic participation.
This exhibit is part of the Museum’s America 250-themed season lineup, “Rights, Revolution and Rhythm,” which explores the people, movements, and cultural forces that have shaped the nation’s democratic story.
Designed for both secondary school audiences and the general public, the exhibit offers an accessible and compelling look at a pivotal chapter in Wisconsin history.
About the South Wood County Historical Museum
The South Wood County Historical Museum preserves and shares the history of South Wood County through exhibitions, educational programs and community engagement opportunities that bring local heritage to life.
There is no admission fee; however, donations are greatly appreciated and help support the SWCHM’s exhibitions and programs. Additional information is available by contacting the museum or visiting its website at www.swch-museum.com.