20th Annual Local History & Historic Preservation Conference
October 16 | 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Event Details
Thursday, October 15, 2026 | 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Friday, October 16, 2026 | 7:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Overview
Join the Wisconsin Historical Society for the 20th Annual Local History & Historic Preservation Conference! This year, we are excited to travel to Milwaukee featuring dynamic speakers, interactive workshops, and engaging breakout sessions.
Cost
Early Bird Registration Rates (through August 16)
- Two-Day Adult Attendance: 5
- Thursday Only Adult Attendance: 5
- Friday Only Adult Attendance: 5
Regular Registration Rates (from August 17)
- Two-Day Adult Attendance: 5
- Thursday Only Adult Attendance: 0
- Friday Only Adult Attendance: 0
Student Registration Rates
- Two-Day Student Attendance:
- One-Day Student Attendance:
Advance registration required by September 28, 2026.
Society members receive a 10% discount, please verify your membership where prompted to receive discount at check out.
The 2026 Local History & Historic Preservation Conference is presented in partnership with AIA Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Association of Historic Preservation Commissions, and the Wisconsin Historical Records Advisory Board.
Add Ons
Thursday Off Site Excursions, Oct 15, 2026, 1:30 – 4:00 pm
- Milwaukee Central Library Tour, maximum attendance 30; Cost: .00
- Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory Domes Tour, maximum attendance 35; Cost .00
- Forest Home Cemetery & Arboretum Tour, maximum attendance 35; Cost .00
Thursday National Trust for Historic Preservation Full-Day Workshop, Oct 15, 2026, 9:15 am – 4:00 pm
- Full day workshop for historic preservation professionals, maximum attendance 50; Cost .00, in addition to conference registration fee.
The 2026 Local History & Historic Preservation Conference is presented in partnership with AIA Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Association of Historic Preservation Commissions, and the Wisconsin Historical Records Advisory Board.
About the Location
Hyatt Regency Milwaukee
333 West Kilbourn Ave.
Milwaukee, WI 53203
Know Before You Go
Registration includes access to all conference sessions and half-day workshops, as well as networking opportunities. Registration also includes breakfast, snacks, and lunch provided at the conference center. Workshops with limited space require advanced registration. Additional fees and registration are required for off-site tour excursions and the full-day National Trust workshop.
For general information please see the Local History & Historic Preservation Conference webpage. https://www.wisconsinhistory.org/connect-with-local-history-outreach/local-history-historic-preservation-conference/. Registrants will be sent a follow-up form which will include sessions, workshops, additional opportunities, and meal selections.
Accessibility
Hyatt Regency Milwaukee is ADA accessible.
Contact
For more information, please contact Amy Norlin at [email protected] or 608-264-6579.
Guests with additional mobility needs are encouraged to contact Amy Norlin directly.