EC Wisconsin News

The Manitowoc County Historical Society held its 119th Annual Meeting on March 13 at K-City Pub and Grill in Kellnersville. The event included a business meeting, election of new directors, and recognition of volunteers.

Jacob Novosad, the Education Coordinator for MCHS, welcomed attendees. Hannah Harvey, Living History Program Coordinator, emphasized the significance of historical spaces. Alex Brendemuehl led a prayer before lunch.

After lunch, Engagement Manager Devinne Fackelman acknowledged museum members' milestones. President Jennifer Johnson expressed enthusiasm for achievements in 2024 and introduced board members: Ryan Zunker (Vice President), Megan Bruckschen (Secretary), Matt Neu (Treasurer), Mike Johnson, Angel Johanek, and Dennis Tienor.

A financial overview highlighted an operating budget of about $260,000 annually. Membership dues contributed over $21,000 last year. Program fees and admissions generated over $60,000 in income. School and youth program outreach brought in over $14,000—a nearly 25% increase from 2023.

Unrestricted donations amounted to over $52,000 in 2024 compared to $17,000 in 2023. Membership contributions exceeded $270,000 in restricted gifts mainly directed towards specific projects like the Vetting Fund and Meeme House project. The Endowment Fund ended with over $849,000.

Expenses remain minimal relative to the museum's scope of work. Staffing costs rose by almost 30%. A construction loan was taken for Meeme House restoration; approximately $400,000 is still needed towards the project goal of $1.5 million.

Executive Director Amy Meyer shared successes from education programs to building restorations. The Annual Impact report is available online at ManitowocCountyHistory.org.

Jennifer Johnson introduced incoming board members: Dennis Tienor for a second term; Megan Bruckschen for a second term; Mike Johnson for a first term.

In 2024, volunteers contributed 8,118 hours to the museum and Pinecrest Village. Volunteers with over 100 hours were recognized including Aggie Schmitz with 1,094 hours among others.

Jim Day received the Square Nail Volunteer of the Year Award for his efforts with walking tours and cataloging collections.

The meeting concluded with a fundraiser raffle raising over $4,900 for MCHS's mission.

The Manitowoc County Historical Society is located in Eastern Wisconsin's Ice Age Kettle Moraine countryside featuring Pinecrest Historical Village with historic buildings from early settlers.

For more information contact (920) 684-4445 or visit ManitowocCountyHistory.org.