Wildwood Historical Society Museum | Springfield MO

The Wildwood Historical Society Museum, located at 18750 Highway 100 in Wildwood, Missouri, is a dedicated institution committed to preserving and sharing the rich historical legacy of the Wildwood area. The museum operates out of a historically significant site-the Hencken Family Homestead, which dates back to 1852 and is listed on the City of Wildwood’s Register of Historic Places. The museum building itself is housed in a restored two-story barn that formerly served as the Damhorst Toy Factory, blending local heritage with community-focused preservation efforts.

Mission and Purpose

The primary mission of the Wildwood Historical Society Museum is to discover, document, memorialize, and disseminate the prehistory and history of Wildwood and its surrounding region. This includes gathering, preserving, and displaying written records, photographs, artifacts, and other materials that collectively tell the story of the community from its earliest days through modern times.

Collections and Exhibits

The museum’s collections are extensive and diverse, reflecting the social, cultural, and economic development of Wildwood:

Photographic Archives: The museum houses a vast collection of historic photographs depicting early settlers, town development, community events, buildings, and landscapes, providing a visual chronicle of the area’s evolution.

Documentary Records: These include personal letters, diaries, newspapers, maps, and legal documents that reveal the daily lives, challenges, and milestones of Wildwood’s residents through the decades.

Artifacts and Memorabilia: Objects from everyday life, agricultural tools, household items, and locally manufactured goods (including remnants from the Damhorst Toy Factory) offer tangible connections to past eras.

Genealogical Resources: The museum maintains records and genealogical data supporting family history research, enabling visitors and scholars to trace lineages and learn more about the people who shaped the community.

The exhibits are thoughtfully curated to provide educational narratives about Wildwood’s development, touching on topics such as early settlement patterns, the impact of transportation and industry, the Civil War’s influence, and the region’s transformation into a modern suburban community.

Educational and Community Outreach

The Wildwood Historical Society actively engages with the community through programs, events, and publications:

It offers docent-led tours and educational sessions that bring local history to life for school groups, families, and visitors.

The society produces annual historical calendars highlighting significant dates and stories from Wildwood’s past.

Published works such as "At Rest in Wildwood" and "Before It Was Wildwood" explore detailed aspects of local history, including one-room schoolhouses, early churches, and Civil War history specific to the area. These are available for purchase and serve as valuable resources for residents and historians alike.

Research Access and Archives

For researchers, genealogists, and history enthusiasts, the museum provides access to its archives by appointment. These archives contain an extensive range of primary source materials and reference documents. Visitors can consult with the museum’s archivist to conduct in-depth research on family histories, land records, and historic events tied to Wildwood and the surrounding communities.

Visiting the Museum

The museum is generally open during scheduled meetings and special events but also welcomes visitors by appointment, allowing for personalized tours and research opportunities. Prospective visitors are encouraged to contact the museum in advance to arrange visits and confirm hours.

Significance

The Wildwood Historical Society Museum serves as a vital repository for the area’s collective memory. By preserving artifacts, stories, and records, it fosters community identity and ensures that the heritage of Wildwood remains accessible to future generations. It acts as a cultural hub where residents and visitors alike can deepen their understanding of the region’s past, from pioneer times through contemporary growth and change.

In essence, the Wildwood Historical Society Museum is more than just a collection of artifacts; it is a living institution that connects the present-day community to its roots through education, preservation, and celebration of Wildwood’s unique history.