Kallie Schultz Board Member | Official Website
Kallie Schultz Board Member | Official Website
STEVENS POINT, Wis. — The Portage County Historical Society (PCHS) has been recognized as the 2025 recipient of the Reuben Gold Thwaites Trophy. This award is given annually by the Wisconsin Historical Society to acknowledge excellence in the efforts of local historical organizations.
The award acknowledges PCHS for its significant achievements in preservation, public programming, education, and community outreach. Named after historian and former Wisconsin Historical Society director Reuben Gold Thwaites, this trophy is considered the highest recognition a local history organization can receive within the state.
This is the second occasion that PCHS has received the Thwaites Trophy; they first earned it in 1996.
“To receive this honor nearly 30 years after our first award speaks volumes about the continued growth and impact of our organization,” said John Harry, Executive Director of the Portage County Historical Society. “From new exhibits and educational programs to community partnerships and preservation efforts, this award is a reflection of the hard work and passion of our staff, board, volunteers, and supporters.”
A significant change for PCHS occurred in 2021 when they shifted from an all-volunteer model to a professionally staffed operation. Since then, they have added multiple paid positions, expanded public programming, initiated new community projects, and revitalized several historic sites.
Recent initiatives include the Rhythms of the River music history exhibit at Heritage Park, launching a live oral history series, and organizing events such as Heritage Days and Lagers and Loggers.
The formal presentation of the award will be held at a ceremony scheduled later this summer.
For more details about PCHS's sites, exhibits, and programs, visit www.pchswi.org.
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