From 1926 to Today: How Door County’s History Came Alive

By Amy Frank

As we embark upon our 100th anniversary, it is meaningful to reflect on how the Door County Historical Society was founded in 1926. At that time, there was growing concern that important historic sites, landmarks, and stories across the peninsula were being lost. Newspaper accounts from the fall of 1926 document a coordinated effort to form a countywide historical organization dedicated to preserving Door County’s past for future generations.

Leadership for this effort came from several well-known and respected figures. Hjalmar R. Holand of Ephraim—historian, author of The History of Door County, and a nationally recognized authority on early Midwestern history—played a central role in organizing the society and articulating its purpose. He was joined by the Reverend S. J. Groenfeldt of De Pere, formerly president of the State Historical Society, whose experience and guidance helped shape the organization’s early direction. The Reverend Clement Hoefler of Green Bay was secured as a principal speaker for the founding meeting, lending additional credibility and regional support to the effort. Other early advocates included Judge H. R. Leland, described in contemporary articles as a well-known historian who had been actively involved for more than a year in organizing the society. Community groups also played a role; the Men’s Club of Ephraim had already begun marking places of historical interest and assisted with early preservation work, including efforts connected to Peninsula State Park.

On October 1, 1926, these men and other representatives from communities across Door County gathered at the courthouse in Sturgeon Bay to formally organize the Society. Their shared goals were ambitious and forward-looking:
• Identify and mark historic sites
• Preserve old trails and landmarks
• Commemorate early Indigenous and European history
• Educate both residents and visitors about the peninsula’s rich past

From the outset, these leaders recognized that preservation would benefit not only historical understanding but also civic pride and tourism. The founding vision extended beyond preservation alone. Leaders recognized that protecting historic sites would benefit education, community pride, and even tourism, helping visitors and residents better understand the peninsula’s past. From its earliest days, the Society relied on community involvement, volunteer leadership, and financial support to carry out this work—a model that continues to define the organization a century later.

Today the Door County Historical Society continues to be guided by the same principles established by its founders— community leadership, volunteer involvement, and broad public support. Our members, donors, sponsors, and supporters help us carry that legacy forward. Your involvement is essential as we work to preserve historic sites, care for collections, and ensure the continued growth and stability of the organization for generations to come.