langlade county historical society museum

Antigo is a former railroad town with not a single active rail with 30 miles. Good collection of railroadiana but the all-volunteer staff is nothing beyond cordial, and you are best-served by a self-guided tour of this former Carnegie Library structure.

Even though I didn't see this, my dad and uncles visited this museum while we were all staying in Antigo. I wish I would have had time, especially when they all came back talking about it. They really enjoyed it and said it was well worth an hour or two of their day. I tell you, if my dad can find this place, ANYone can find it.

The historical society is in a beautiful old Carnegie Library building and the curator knows all about the colorful history of the county. There are a lot of pictures and exhibits. Antigo was once the last "large" town in the northwoods of Wisconsin and played a big part in the lumbering, tourism and bootlegging industries that developed in that part of the state in the early 1900's. It is a good place to stop for a break on your way up north.

The building the museum is in used to be the library when I went to school in Antigo and is a gem in and of itself.

This museum is a nice way to spend a few hours in Antigo and think about how early settlers in the area lived. Many rooms and floors are chock full of curiosities and antiques. There is also an old steam locomotive in front which you can schedule tours for. You can't miss it, look for the train on Route 45 near the center of town.