Gala Victorian-era Fundraisers at Historic Courthouse Downtown

(Waukesha, WI) . . . Delicious and abundant “heavy hors d’oeuvres,” catered by Chef Jacks, served in the magnificently restored ballroom of the 1893 former Waukesha County Courthouse are among the featured draws of a $30,000 fundraiser for the Waukesha County Historical Society and Museum, Thursday, April 18th from 6-9pm.

In addition to a presentation by celebrated historian and author, John Schoenknecht about Waukesha’s famous Victorian Resort and Springs Era— a time of extreme competition among massive hotels, healing baths that drew celebrities from all over the country, and natural springs selling bottled water to patrons thousands of miles away — the event also features self-guided tours of the museum including its award-winning Les Paul exhibit, its Agriculture of Waukesha County exhibit now under construction, and the first glimpses of another new exhibit highlighting the remarkable Waukesha Springs era, which is the purpose of this year’s Spring fundraiser.

Other fun includes a fundraising wine pull, a silent auction with items like a get-away weekend, a pontoon boat cruise, artwork, and other items for bid. In tune with the evening’s theme — Waukesha’s Springs Era — there will even be a fun “water tasting” to engage guests, many of whom may arrive in fanciful and fun Victorian garb.

“This event is going to be a memorable blast of fun for every single person who attends. We are honored to host everyone who can be with us,” said executive director, Nicki Ciurro. Board chair Ronda Baxter said, “It takes hard work by many volunteers and significant funds to design and stage a new high-quality exhibit like Waukesha’s Springs Era. We hope for a very fun and successful event.”

Admission is only $50 each; tickets can be purchased online at either eventbrite.com, waukeshacountymuseum.org, at the museum during operating hours on Wed, Thurs and Fri from 1-4pm, and Saturday 10am-4pm, or at the door that evening with prior phone RSVP for food planning.

Business and charitable underwriting gifts: Gifts to the 501(c)3 organization are tax deductible, and any size underwriting donation is deeply appreciated. With special pride and gratitude, all gifts of $1000 or more, (received by 4pm on Monday, April 15th), will result in the donor’s name and logo listed on event signage as an especially committed supporter of the historical society and museum.

The Waukesha County Historical Society & Museum is in its 120th year of bringing to life the stories and people of Waukesha County. “The organization, founded in 1904, depends on generous history lovers and members. It is not funded by Waukesha County government, but both the society and museum are very proud to bear this remarkable county’s name in our work,” said Baxter.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. It has not been verified for its accuracy or completeness.