Oshkosh, Wisconsin — MKI Traveling Exhibit “Neighbors Past and Present: The Wisconsin German Experience”

Location:

Oshkosh Public Library, 106 Washington Avenue Oshkosh, WI

Co-sponsor(s):

Oshkosh Public Library, Wisconsin Humanities Council

Description:

Display of MKI’s traveling exhibit “Neighbors Past and Present: the Wisconsin German Experience.” On fourteen panels that draw largely on images and resources from the MKI Library and Archives, the exhibit covers German migration and settlement in Wisconsin, questions of ethnicity and identity in newly forged communities, and the cohesiveness of these communities over the decades, especially in times of economic crisis or war. Specific topics include language; print culture; religion; Amish and Mennonites; traditions and social clubs, education; rural and urban life; business; political and civic engagement; times of war; and immigrants and their descendants in the global world, past and present. Additional Programming at the Oshkosh Public Library Lecture: Introduction to Neighbors Past and Present: The Wisconsin German Experience Sat., Jan. 25          10 a.m.          Under the Dome Max Kade Institute Director Mark Louden gives an overview of German immigrants’ impact on Wisconsin’s history. Carl Laemmle: From Germany to Oshkosh to Hollywood Tues., Jan. 28          6 p.m.          Under the Dome How did German immigrant Carl Laemmle become the founder of Universal Studios? UWO professor Doug Heil will trace his remarkable journey. Before the talk, check out Laemmle’s 1912 promotional film Oshkosh in Motion on YouTube. German Ethnic Groups in Oshkosh Wed., Feb. 5             6 p.m.           Under the Dome Lourdes High School German teacher Linda Kaelin gives an overview of the various German ethnic groups that have settled in Oshkosh – including the Volga Germans and Highholders. Tuba Dan Band Sat., Feb. 8               10 a.m.          Under the Dome Tuba Dan Band plays a rousing round of Polka favorites. The unique acoustics of the Dome make this an extraordinary event for polka fans. World Cultures: Germany Sat., Feb. 15               11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.          Under the Dome Experience German culture through traditional folktales. Lourdes High School German-language students will lead a series of children’s games. Top off your studies with a German treat! Special thanks to UWO Professor Emeritus of German Dr. Alan Lareau; author Lee Reiherzer; UWO Archivist Joshua Ranger, and the Oshkosh Public Museum for the coordination of local displays and on-going program support. All events are free and open to the public. The “Neighbors Past and Present” project has been made possible by a Major Grant from the Wisconsin Humanities Council.