Member Appreciation Event
Behind the Big Top: Private Tour of Ringlingville's Restoration
Member-Only Event
Saturday, September 12
Join us for this member-only tour at Circus World in Baraboo, WI. Enjoy catching up with your fellow members on this special tour!
Step inside history — literally. Circus World is home to Ringlingville, the original Winter Headquarters of the Ringling Brothers Circus (1884–1918), and one of Wisconsin's most extraordinary landmarks. As a designated National Historic Landmark on the National Register of Historic Places, this site tells the story of the greatest show on earth and the brothers who built it.
Thanks to the Save America's Treasures Grant program and State of Wisconsin funding, WHS is bringing Ringlingville back to its 1915 glory. As our valued members, you'll get an exclusive peek behind the curtain.
Join us for a private, guided tour with the architects and state facility managers as we explore three projects in different stages of transformation:
The Ringling Brothers Office Building — freshly restored and ready to impress
Wild Animal House #2 — newly completed!
The Baggage Horse Barn — in the design phase, where history meets blueprints
You'll walk away with a front-row seat to the fascinating world of historic restoration. From how investigators uncover a building's original secrets, to the craft of replicating century-old wood windows, masonry, plaster, and even historic paint colors. We'll also dig into how preservationists balance authenticity with modern safety and accessibility needs.
This is a rare, members-only experience you won't want to miss!
Photo courtesy of Circus World-Wisconsin Historical Society, CWi 7264
We realize that this location is outside of Madison, but we hope you’ll consider heading up to Baraboo to learn more about the history of this historic place. We also plan to provide you with suggestions for lunch and a short historical driving tour. Spend the day in Baraboo!
Venue: Circus World, 550 Water St., Baraboo, WI
Date: Saturday, September 12
Time: Tours will be announced soon
Cost: FREE tour
There is limited space at this event so we encourage you to register early! Event information will be sent after you register. Members must provide their six-digit Member ID to register. Maximum of 2 tickets per member so that we are able to include as many members as possible.
Additional material: Lunch suggestions and a short historical driving tour