Wisconsin Historical Society: Wade House Season Opens with New Activities, Including Stagecoach Saturdays

Greenbush, Wisconsin — Delve into the era of equine-driven journeys at Wade House, a stagecoach inn from the 1850s now under the custodianship of the Wisconsin Historical Society. Beginning May 25, this historic site opens its doors for the summer season, inviting guests to experience a bygone era. This year, the site launches Stagecoach Saturdays, a new feature providing visitors with a 30-minute journey aboard a stagecoach, traversing the scenic landscapes of the Kettle Moraine. This attraction is among a host of novel events slated for this season, such as evenings at Wade’s Tavern and pizza gatherings hosted by Marzano Pizza Company, promising a blend of historical exploration and contemporary enjoyment.

“Wade House has a rich history of hospitality, serving as a gathering place for the community,” said Bridgitt Zielke, site director of Wade House. “We are excited to showcase historic horse-powered transport and introduce new events like Spirits on the Solstice Craft Cocktail Experience and a farm-to-table Harvest Moon Long Table Dinner.”

Today, guests are afforded the extraordinary chance to step back in time and immerse themselves in the rich cultural mosaic of a past era through a series of engaging and diverse activities. Participants are invited to explore the culinary traditions of Betsey Wade, revel in the quaint accommodations available for merely 25 cents a night on the third floor, and engage in the age-old art of blacksmithing through interactive horseshoe molding demonstrations. Moreover, the inn provides a captivating look into the dawn of industrial technology with guided tours of a fully functional water-powered sawmill. For those in search of a more relaxed experience, a horse-drawn wagon ride to the Wesley W. Jung Carriage Museum is on offer. This museum houses the state’s largest collection of carriages, including an exceptional piece once belonging to the illustrious architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Through this immersive historical journey, the inn not only imparts knowledge to its visitors but also fosters a deep connection between them and the region’s rich cultural legacy.

The season at Wade House, encompassing spring, summer, and fall, extends from May 25 to November 3, 2024. The historical site welcomes visitors from Wednesday to Sunday, operating hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Entry fees are structured as follows: $15 for adults and teenagers, $13 for senior citizens aged 65 and over, $8 for children aged 5 to 12, while those under five years of age enjoy free admission. Additionally, members of the Wisconsin Historical Society are granted complimentary general admission along with a 10% discount on events that require tickets.

Residents of Sheboygan and Fond du Lac can take advantage of Half-Price First Saturdays, enjoying a 50% discount on admission to the Wade House grounds on the first Saturday of each month. This discount extends to all family members upon presentation of proof of residency.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit wadehouse.wisconsinhistory.org.

Upcoming Events at Wade House:

Blacksmithing Workshops – May 18, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., or June 22, Oct. 5,  9 a.m. to noon

Seize the opportunity to immerse yourself in the craft of blacksmithing within the historic ambiance of the 1860s-era Dockstader Blacksmith Shop. Experience the resonant “clang” of the hammer striking metal and feel the warmth radiating from the forge as you delve into this ancient art. Engage in the creation of exceptional knives, molding them from diverse materials, and personalizing the handles to produce a truly unique and singular piece. The investment for this captivating experience is $225 for a full-day session and $125 for a half-day session.

Home School Days at Wade House – May 21, Sept. 4, Oct. 1, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Individuals of all age groups are warmly invited to immerse themselves in the equine-centric universe of the Wade House as it stood in the mid-19th century. Participants will have the opportunity to delve into the history of stagecoach travel, explore the Wesley W. Jung Carriage Museum, craft their own model carriage, and embark on a journey via horse-drawn wagon to the heart of the site’s historic essence. There, they will witness firsthand the operation of a water-powered sawmill and observe the vital role of a blacksmith in bygone days. Additionally, the experience includes a guided tour of the 27-room Stagecoach Inn. Admission is priced at $6 per student from kindergarten through 12th grade and $11 per adult or senior chaperone.

Stagecoach Saturdays – May 25, June 15, July 13, Aug.10, Sept 14, 30-minute rides available every 45 minutes from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Embark on a journey through time with a leisurely stagecoach ride across the scenic, undulating terrain of the Kettle Moraine. Each excursion, lasting about 30 minutes, is conducted in an authentic replica of a Concord stagecoach, offering passengers a genuine glimpse into the mode of travel from a distant past. The coach can comfortably seat six passengers per trip, and it is highly advised to pre-register to secure your place on this nostalgic adventure.

Father’s Day at Wade House – June 15 and 16, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Immerse yourself in a vivid portrayal of 19th-century life at a stagecoach inn during an exclusive Father’s Day weekend event. This meticulously crafted experience kicks off with a serene, horse-drawn wagon journey to the historic Wade House. Here, you’ll have the unique opportunity to interact with skilled artisans, gaining insights into the age-old tools and techniques employed in the construction of buildings, carriages, and various indispensable artifacts of the era. Additionally, the estate’s gardener and chef will unveil the secrets behind Betsey Wade’s methods of cultivating and preparing food for the inn’s guests, offering a glimpse into the culinary practices of the past. Families are encouraged to engage in a photo-based scavenger hunt, a quest that rewards completion with a distinctive keepsake from the gift shop. To complement your experience, a selection of food and beverages will be available for purchase, ensuring a memorable journey back in time for visitors of all ages.

Spirits on the Solstice: Craft Cocktail Experience – June 20, 6 to 8 p.m.

On the summer solstice, the day when daylight reigns supreme, indulge in the captivating experience of watching the sun dip below the horizon from the elegant Greek Revival-style porch of the Wade House. Elevate your evening with a hands-on craft cocktail-making session, where you’ll not only learn valuable mixology techniques but also enjoy sampling a variety of cocktails. Complementing your drinks, a selection of snacks and appetizers will be served. This event is exclusively for those aged 21 and over. Participation is priced at $35 per person.

Wade Pizza Party featuring Marzano Pizza Company – June 28, July 26, Aug. 23, 5 to 8 p.m.

Join us for a delightful Friday pizza party at the esteemed Wade House, commemorating the legendary hospitality of its founder, Betsey Wade, at this historic stagecoach inn. Immerse yourself in an evening filled with live music, sumptuous food, and refreshing beverages. Indulge in the exquisite pies offered by Marzano Pizza Company, complemented by a selection of soft drinks, beer, and wine. The best part? There’s no admission fee to partake in the festivities. Food and beverages will be available for purchase, ensuring a memorable experience for all who attend.

Wade House Carriage Driving Days – July 19-21, noon to 4 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday

Immerse yourself in the elegance and spectacle of a three-day carriage driving event at Wade House, set within the venue’s newly established horse arena. Witness riders, clad in exquisite period and vintage-inspired attire, as they guide their horses through a series of challenges. These trials are meticulously designed to highlight the horses’ adaptability, training, and skill. A horse-drawn carriage will graciously ferry guests to the competition grounds, allowing them to travel in style and soak in the atmosphere of the event. Admission is priced at $17 for adults and teenagers, $15 for seniors aged 65 and over, $8.50 for children aged 5 to 12, while toddlers under five can enjoy the event free of charge.

Arts & Crafts Fair – Aug. 25, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Experience the exceptional craftsmanship of over 50 meticulously chosen artists and artisans at the scenic and historic grounds of Wade House. This gathering showcases a diverse range of talents, including pottery, quilting, metalworking, woodworking, and herbalism, among others. Discover an essential whimsical item for your garden, acquire exquisite art for your living space, or indulge in artisanal foods to enhance your pantry. Enjoy this unique experience while savoring delicious snacks, delighting in live music, and observing captivating craft demonstrations. Admission is priced at a modest $5 per person, making this an accessible opportunity to immerse yourself in a world of creativity and skill.

Harvest Moon Long Table Dinner – Sept. 28, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Join us at the expansive table for a convivial, al fresco, farm-to-table dining experience that showcases the autumn bounty of the Kettle Moraine. This event features a selection of locally sourced produce and wines, fostering a sense of camaraderie and warm cheer among attendees. Chef Tracey Leonhard from Rosemary Gourmet will craft a sumptuous dinner that pays homage to Wisconsin’s rich agricultural roots, incorporating fresh vegetables, herbs, and edible flowers directly from the gardens of Wade House. The evening will also include a variety of specially curated mocktails and cocktails inspired by the menu. This event is open to guests 18 years and older, with a participation fee of $150 per person.

Autumn Celebration Weekend & General Admission – Oct. 12 & 13, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Embrace the vibrant hues of the season by partaking in quintessential autumn activities perfect for the whole family. Delve into the tradition of carving pumpkins and turnips, engage in the age-old process of apple pressing, and enjoy timeless games such as Snap Apple. The festivities extend into the evening at the candlelit Herrling Sawmill, where attendees can experience the unique sounds of a water-powered, up-and-down saw while listening to spooky, yet family-friendly, stories. The event also features warm apple cider and enchanting horse-drawn carriage rides. Admission is priced at $15 for adults and teenagers, $13 for seniors aged 65 and over, $8 for children between the ages of 5-12, and complimentary for children under five.

An Evening at Wade’s Tavern – Oct. 24, 5:30 to 8 p.m.

Discover the charm of a bygone era at the Wade House taproom, where an evening spent here transports you back to the heart of 19th-century social life in Greenbush, cherished by both locals and visitors. Delight in an array of specialty beers and apple cider, complemented by an assortment of snacks, as you wander through the majestic halls of this Greek Revival inn. The ambiance is further enriched by musical performances from Ric Tic, ensuring an unforgettable experience. This event is exclusively for guests aged 21 and over. Admission is priced at $20 per person.

Hearthside Dinners – Nov. 2 and Nov. 9, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Indulge in a sumptuous hearth-cooked feast, meticulously prepared by your hands, as part of the acclaimed Hearthside Dinner series at the historic Wade House kitchen. Dive into the culinary arts as you create a menu featuring wild rice soup, pork ragout, Yankee pot roast, brethren cheddar bread, and apple pandowdy, all cooked over a wood-burning stove, emulating the culinary practices of Betsey Wade, the esteemed matriarch of Wade House, over 150 years ago. After the preparation, take a moment to relish the exquisite dishes you’ve crafted in a communal, family-style dinner set in the elegant and inviting dining room of Wade House.

A Wade House Christmas – Dec. 14 and 15, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Immerse yourself in the holiday traditions of the past at the historical Wade House. The enchanting inn will be adorned for the festive season, illustrating the Wade family’s 19th-century Christmas celebrations, influenced by both Yankee and German customs. Delight in traditional holiday treats, crafts, live music, and a captivating reading of “The Night Before Christmas.” The celebration extends to the Wade House Visitor Center and the Wesley W. Jung Carriage Museum, where seasonal decorations, a scavenger hunt, live music, and activities for children will enhance the festive atmosphere.