Mineral Point Historical Society Announces Winter Lyceum Series 2026

Mineral Point, WI — The Mineral Point Historical Society is pleased to announce its Winter Lyceum Series 2026, a lineup of three engaging and informative presentations exploring regional history, culture, and the natural world. All programs are free and open to the public and will be held at the Mineral Point Odd Fellows Lodge, 112 Front Street.

Old Abe, 

the Wisconsin War Eagle:

Sunday, January 18, 2:30pm Mineral Point Odd Fellows Lodge (112 Front Street)

Join Dr. Mark Bishop for an engaging historical reconstruction of the life, Civil War service, and post-war adventures of Old Abe, the Famous Wisconsin War Eagle. The Civil War Lyceum will highlight Old Abe's personal impact on Wisconsin troops, his antics and exploits that affected soldiers' day-to-day lives in both the North and the South, his contributions to many successful military battles and skirmishes, and will examine the unifying role he played in rebuilding veterans' lives and our fractured post-war nation.

A History of Immigration in Southwest Wisconsin

Sunday, February 15, 2:30pm Mineral Point Odd Fellows Lodge (112 Front Street)

Migration is an ongoing process. It began in the 18th century when many eastern Native Nations pushed into Ho-Chunk lands. Then the rush for lead ore caused American and immigrants to come to our region. Some of them brought free and enslaved Black workers. Learn about the many groups that came to this area and about the migrants who have come recently-the Amish and Spanish-speaking peoples. Our corner of the state has always been a place of great diversity of people, languages, and religions. Join Tracey Lee Roberts, UW-P Senior Lecturer Emeritus, for a fascinating look at the history of migration in Southwest Wisconsin.

Vulnerable Oaks: What's Ailing Our Oak Trees?

Sunday, March 15, 2:30pm Mineral Point Odd Fellows Lodge (112 Front Street)

Forever seen as symbols of strength, endurance, and longevity, oaks have always played a critical role in our urban and forest ecosystems in Wisconsin. In recent decades a multitude of factors have led to the general decline and mortality of these important legacy trees.  From drought to insect pests and fungal pathogens, our heritage oaks are under intense pressure and struggling to survive.  Given from the perspective of a certified arborist, this talk will focus on the issues commonly seen on our oak trees and the possible treatment efforts that can be employed to keep these trees in the landscape for as long as possible. Arborist Matt Duffy will present this engaging lyceum.

Consider joining us for these informative and free lyceums!