You’re invited to an inspiring night honoring individuals, businesses, and community organizations that have worked diligently to preserve Milwaukee County’s history and continue to forge its future.
Since 1953, the Milwaukee County Historical Society has recognized individuals, community organizations, and businesses that have made significant contributions to preserving and promoting local history. In 2003, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of our awards program, we introduced the Anniversary Accolades, honoring milestones like the 50th, 75th, 100th, 125th, 150th, and 175th anniversaries of local businesses, organizations, schools, and universities.
Our awards span a wide range of contributions. The Witness to History Award honors individuals who have shaped and documented Milwaukee’s history. The Courtland R. Conlee Community Service Award celebrates those who have made lifelong contributions to preserving local history. The Frederick I. Olson Historic Preservation Award acknowledges the preservation efforts of Milwaukee’s historic architecture. The Gambrinus Prize recognizes exceptional books on Milwaukee history, while the Dan Emmer Recognition Award highlights the invaluable efforts of volunteers and organizations that support the Society’s work.
The 2025 Annual Awards Dinner will be held on Thursday, May 22nd, at the iconic Pfister Hotel, gathering more than 400 guests for a memorable evening. This prestigious event includes a silent auction, an awards ceremony recognizing excellence in history and preservation, and an outstanding dinner and dessert.
2025 Awardees
We’re thrilled to announce this year’s awardees, whose contributions to our community exemplify the values and mission of the Historical Society:
Donald and Donna Baumgartner: Witness to History, honors individuals who have shaped and documented Milwaukee’s history.
Jackie Herd-Barber: Courtland R. Conlee Community Service Award, recognizes individuals who make major contributions to forging Milwaukee history through strengthening the community.
Doris Heiser: Dan Emmer Recognition Award, highlights the invaluable efforts of volunteers and organizations that support the Society’s work.
Concordia 27 Project: Frederick I. Olson Historic Preservation Award, recognizes the efforts of individuals and organizations to preserve and protect historic architecture in Milwaukee County.
As a Sponsor
… you honor stories.
The Historical Society preserves the items that tell Milwaukee’s story—documents, photographs, and artifacts that invite us to learn about those who came before us. At the event, you’ll also hear the inspiring stories of our Anniversary Accolade Recipients and Awardees.
… you open doors through education.
Our work allows researchers, genealogists, students of all ages, those new to Milwaukee, longtime neighbors, and everyone in between to explore Milwaukee County’s history, helping them find their place in it.
… you build community.
All our programs foster connections among Milwaukee County’s diverse spaces, organizations, and communities, both past and present. We invite you to attend the event to learn more about the MCHS and discover how we are bringing our rich history to life!
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