Delavan Exhibit & Resource Center
Preserving Delavan's story, one collection at a time.
From circus winter quarters to the shores of Lake Delavan, discover the people, places, and events that shaped our community — and help write its next chapter.
Your Title Goes Here
Historic photograph coming soon
Mon, Wed & Sat · 10am–1pm
663 East Ann Street, Delavan, WI
Displays rotate quarterly
What's on
Upcoming events
Talks, tours, and community gatherings hosted at the Resource Center and around Delavan.
Annual Historic Boat Tour
May 20
Support the history of Delavan with a guided tour of Delavan Lake's historic shoreline.
Lane Legends Bowling Fundraiser
Nov 10
An evening at Delavan Lanes supporting artifact preservation, with Bronze/Silver/Gold sponsor tiers.
Full Events Calendar
Get involved
Ways to support the Society
Membership, sponsorship, giving, and volunteering are now all handled through our Zeffy giving page — no processing fees, more support for Delavan history.
Membership
Single, Family, Contributing, and Sponsoring Business tiers — starting at $20/year.
Sponsorship
Sponsor the Lane Legends event or an exhibit and see your name in the community.
Donate
One-time and recurring gifts go directly toward collection care and public programs.
Volunteer
Help with archiving, tours, events, and front-desk hours — training provided.
Membership, sponsorship, and donation processing runs through Zeffy — 100% of your contribution goes to the Society.
Current projects
What we're working on
A look at the initiatives our staff and volunteers are focused on right now.
Collections
Collection Management System
Digitizing and cataloging thousands of archival items for public research access.
Restoration
Muster Tree Plaque
Restoring and re-installing the historic Muster Tree marker downtown.
In progress
Website Redesign
You're looking at it — a fresh, story-forward home for delavanhistory.org.
History & Chronicles
The Delavan Chronicles
Recent updates and stories from our research team and community contributors.
Editor's introduction
Delavan's Circus Winter Quarters, 1847–1894
How the Mabie brothers made Delavan America's circus capital, with more than 26 circuses wintering here.
Community
Delavan Hall of Fame Nominations
Annual nominations recognizing residents who have shaped Delavan's story.
Milestone
20 Year Celebration
Marking two decades of the Society with an exclusive historic boat tour and community gathering.
Plan your visit
Exhibit & Resource Center
| Monday | 10am – 1pm |
| Wednesday | 10am – 1pm |
| Saturday | 10am – 1pm |
| Other days | By appointment |
Free admission, donations welcome. Contact us to arrange appointments outside regular hours.
663 East Ann Street
Delavan, WI