Research Collections

The Sauk County History Center houses the largest collection of archival material related to Sauk County including surname files for over 3,000 Sauk County families along with many published family histories. Subject files, local history publications, archival collections and photos are also available. The Society houses Sauk County probate records from 1847 to 1976. Researchers and genealogists may make an appointment to use the various research materials at the history center for research on their own or can submit a request for research.

Click a photo to view the collection. 

Above & Beyond

Real life stories about men and women who made history in flight. 

Area Histories

The wealth of information in these locally produced histories is just now being indexed and we’re excited to share it with you.

Area Attractions

Sauk County has a variety of unique and interesting attractions. 

Census Records

The federal census was taken every ten years and began in Sauk County in 1850.

Church Records

Church records and histories can provide a wealth of information for genealogical research.  This  page contains information on most of the churches in Sauk County and a few "just across the border." 

Devil's Lake

Explore a collection of images of the past places and events at Devil's Lake.

Family Histories

Compiled by Descendants and Donated to the Sauk County Historical Society as of September 2015

History in the News

These articles were compiled from various sources and consist of writings of early pioneers who describe the histories of the Sauk County area.

Newspapers

Additional Baraboo News Republic newspapers, through 1989, are also available in the collection of the SCHS. The Baraboo Library has the Baraboo newspapers on microfilm through 2001. 

Notables

Stories about individuals from Sauk County who made far reaching contributions to the community and beyond.

Obituaries

Obituaries for Sauk County are indexed in alphabetical order. 

Old Sauk Trails

Sauk County Historical Society Newsletters (1940, 2004 - present)

Photo Collection

A collection of over 10,000 photographs, postcards and stereo cards depicting Sauk County towns, villages, events and people

Probate Records

Probate records consist of the documents that settle an estate after someone’s death, whether they died with a will (testate) or without one (intestate).

Sauk County Aerial Views

View Sauk County towns and villages from the sky. 

Sauk County Maps

Maps dating as far back as 1852 can be found within the Sauk County Historical Society Collection. 

Sauk County Memories

Real life stories about memorable moments that became turning points in Sauk County. 

Sauk County Naturally

Sauk County is rich in natural beauty. View this collection of Sauk County's natural wonders.

Sauk County Village Histories

These articles were compiled from various sources and consist of writings of early pioneers who describe the histories of the Sauk County area.

World War I Letters Home

These letters home from soldiers of WWI  (or the Great War as it was known at the time) were originally published in the Baraboo News Republic. 

William Canfield

Images from William Canfield's life