Wisconsin Automotive Museum | Milwaukee

The Wisconsin Automotive Museum, located in downtown Hartford, Wisconsin, stands as the state’s premier institution dedicated to preserving and celebrating Wisconsin’s rich automotive heritage. Housed in a historic building that once served as a Nash dealership, the museum offers visitors a comprehensive journey through the history of automobiles, with a special focus on vehicles manufactured or connected to Wisconsin’s automotive industry.

History and Background

Founded to showcase the state’s significant contributions to automotive manufacturing and culture, the museum highlights Wisconsin’s unique place in American automotive history. Hartford was historically home to several automobile companies, most notably the Kissel Motor Car Company, which produced luxury vehicles in the early 20th century. The museum preserves this legacy by maintaining the world’s largest collection of Kissel automobiles, an important aspect of local pride and industrial history.

Collections and Exhibits

The museum’s collection features over 120 classic, vintage, and historically significant vehicles, with a broad range spanning early horseless carriages to mid-century classics. Highlights include:

Kissel Automobile Collection: The museum holds 27 of the approximately 150 surviving Kissel vehicles worldwide, including iconic models such as the “Gold Bug” Speedster. These cars are renowned for their craftsmanship, style, and engineering, symbolizing Wisconsin’s once-thriving luxury car manufacturing industry.

Nash Automobiles: Exhibits feature vehicles and memorabilia from the Nash Motors Company, another key player in Wisconsin’s automotive past.

Steam Locomotive: A 1913 Soo Line Steam Locomotive (#1003) is displayed, showcasing the state’s broader transportation heritage beyond automobiles.

Lionel Train Layout: A detailed model train display provides entertainment and educational value for visitors of all ages, illustrating the interplay of rail and automotive transportation history.

Automotive Artifacts: The museum includes a variety of related items such as vintage gas pumps, license plates, oil cans, tools, and outboard motors, enriching the context around automobile culture and technology.

Visitor Experience and Facilities

Visitors to the Wisconsin Automotive Museum can expect a well-organized and engaging experience. The exhibits are thoughtfully curated to appeal both to automobile enthusiasts and general visitors, including families and school groups. Informational signage and knowledgeable staff help contextualize the displays, providing insights into the engineering, design, and social impact of the vehicles and artifacts.

The museum operates primarily from Wednesday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and is closed on Sundays through Tuesdays. Admission fees are reasonable, with discounts for seniors and children, and free entry for young children under six.

Location and Accessibility

Situated at 147 N. Rural Street in Hartford, the museum is conveniently located near the city center, making it accessible for visitors traveling by car or public transport. Parking is available nearby. The building’s historic character adds charm to the visit while providing modern amenities to ensure visitor comfort.

Nearby Attractions

The museum’s location allows visitors to combine their trip with other nearby attractions:

Schauer Arts Center: Adjacent to the museum, this venue offers a variety of cultural performances and art exhibits.

Holy Hill National Shrine: Located a short drive from Hartford, this historic basilica and scenic viewpoint attract visitors for both spiritual and recreational reasons.

Summary

The Wisconsin Automotive Museum offers a thorough and fascinating look into the state’s automotive legacy, with a particular emphasis on locally produced vehicles and manufacturers. Its extensive collection of Kissel automobiles and related artifacts makes it a unique destination for those interested in automotive history, engineering, and Wisconsin’s industrial heritage. The museum’s engaging exhibits, combined with its welcoming atmosphere and convenient location, make it an enriching stop for tourists, historians, families, and car enthusiasts alike.