Discover the Birthplace of Wisconsin Government
Madison has long been Wisconsin’s capital city, but the first 42 laws were made 50 miles southwest, here in Belmont. Welcome to Wisconsin’s First Capitol, where for just 46 days in 1836 representatives met to lay the foundation for our state’s government. Immerse yourself in the world of these founders, walking through the buildings and rooms where these important decisions were made.
FIELD TRIPS & GROUP TOURS
Field Trips
The best day of your school year awaits! Don’t just read about history, experience it! Field Trips at the Wisconsin Historical Society’s historic sites and museums allow students to step into the worlds they’re studying through fun adventures and engaging experiences around the state for grades K-12.
Group Tours
Travel Together Through Time and bring your group tour to the Wisconsin Historical Society’s sites and museums. Experience the worlds and wonders of Wisconsin’s past. Book your group tour today! Tours include private guide(s) that can be customized to meet the needs and interests of your group.
Get the Best Deal in History
Unlock incredible value for historic year-round fun!
All Wisconsin Historical Society members enjoy unlimited free admission to our 11 historic sites and museums, exclusive merchandise and special event discounts, a complimentary annual subscription to the Wisconsin Magazine of History and more. Join at the Family level and above for added benefits and discounts at over 1,200 organizations nationwide!
Follow Us!
[instagram feed=”3902″]
First Capitol
Discover the rugged origins of the first capitol of Wisconsin Territory, where legislators laid down the framework for the current state government.
Today First Capitol had a visit from the Highland Elementary 3rd and 4th graders! Students learned from tour guide Glenn all about Governor Dodge and the laws created on site in 1836, including the decision to make Madison the capital of Wisconsin.
Students got to propose and vote on where they would like the Wisconsin state capital to be located, just like legislators in 1836. Here is how they voted:
Highland - 11
Platteville - 11
Madison - 5
Dodgeville - 4
Livingston - 0
Governor Dodge had to break the tie with Highland winning the vote! ... See MoreSee Less
Comment on Facebook
We are so excited to be included on Travel Wisconsin's list of 20 historical sites to visit here in Wisconsin!
Come explore Wisconsin history at First Capitol! We open on Saturday, May 24 for the season. ... See MoreSee Less
Comment on Facebook
Happy Independence Day!
We are open today, Thursday, July 4 for the holiday! Come on over between 10am - 4pm to learn about Wisconsin territorial history. ... See MoreSee Less
Comment on Facebook