While the exhibits at the Ashwaubenon Historical Society’s museum are closed due to the pandemic, a fundraiser and challenge grant is happening to expand the building and preserve the history of the community.

The Ashwaubenon Historical Society has received a $20,000 grant from the David L. and Rita E. Nelson Family Fund within the Community Foundation.

The grant will be used toward the expansion and remodel project at the Society’s Museum of History and Culture. Fundraising continues to complete the transformation of the former Ashwaubenon Community Center into the Museum’s permanent home.

Phase One of the project is an addition to the building, which will include a climate-controlled storage room for archived materials, and space for the Society’s restored 1941 fire engine. Phase Two will convert the existing storage space into a community room, dedicated to those who have served their community and their country. It will include an expanded military veterans’ display, and a resource center for use by the Historical Society and community members for research, exhibits, meetings and special events.

The total cost of the project is $172,000. The Historical Society currently has $34,825 in the project fund, and is continuing fundraising with a goal of beginning construction in 2021. For more information, or to contribute to the project, leave a message at 920.429.2863, or email  [email protected]. Contributions can also be mailed to the Ashwaubenon Historical Society, 936 Anderson Drive, Green Bay, WI, 54304.

Who were the Nelsons? Learn more about the David L. and Rita E. Nelson Family Fund and find out more about this couple here.