Winneshiek County Historical Society Marks America's Semiquincentennial with Open House

Our newsroom runs on more than coffee and craft beer — it runs on you. Support Decorah News' local reporting today. DECORAH — The Winneshiek County Historical Society celebrated America's semiquincentennial with an open house Tuesday, welcoming visitors to explore local history through township displays while enjoying ice cream on a hot summer afternoon. The event featured exhibits created by the society's 20 board members, each representing one of Winneshiek County's townships and highlighting stories from across the county. Newly elected Historical Society President Beth Wahlberg said the exhibits were designed to tell the story of the county while acknowledging that Winneshiek County did not exist in 1776. "Winneshiek County didn't exist in 1776, of course, so we addressed that in some of our displays, including information about the Native people who lived here before us," she said. Wahlberg also researched the mystery surrounding Decorah's Oil Well Road. "I picked the topic of an oil well in Decorah," she said. "I knew there was an Oil Well Road, but was there an actual oil well? We never discovered that for sure, but it was a question I raised through research of the area. I thought it was interesting." Wahlberg said accepting the role of society president was an unexpected opportunity. "I never thought I would find myself in this position, but I've always been interested in genealogy and history," she said. "When they needed a new president, I said yes. I'm learning a lot, and the people here are so supportive." Board member Sharon Rossman reflected on the significance of the nation's 250th anniversary. "The semiquincentennial of America has come so fast," she said. "I remember during the bicentennial, I had grade-school-aged children and was living in Wisconsin. Now it's 50 years later, and those kids are 60 and 62 years old. Time flies." Decorah resident Mike Ellingsen said he appreciated the event. "There's always something new to learn about our community," he said. The day also included a planned walking tour of the Broadway-Phelps Park Historic District led by board member Elizabeth Lorentzen. However, the tour was postponed due to extreme heat. The open house was part of the Historical Society's Fourth of July observance and recognized the nation's 250th anniversary while encouraging residents to learn more about the people, places and stories that have shaped Winneshiek County. Be the first to know! Sign up for the free newsletter and unlock exclusive updates, breaking news, and tips from around the community.