Old World Wisconsin: Old World Wisconsin interpreters to legally wed September 6 during first-ever 1880s Pomeranian wedding held on site

Eagle, Wis.–When Anne Danko and Karl Kaphengst met as interpreters at Old World Wisconsin 20 years ago, each knew that they had found a kindred spirit in the history-loving other. Little did they know how that this historic museum would not only be the site of their employment, but of their courtship and, on September 6, their historic wedding as well. It will performed as a legal ceremony in the style of the 1880s Pomeranian immigrants to Wisconsin.

Their love of the past is part of what drew them to each other: Anne has a degree in history, and Karl had wanted to work in museums since childhood. They met as interpreters at Old World Wisconsin in 1994 and have worked together intermittently ever since.

When they became engaged in 2009, they knew that Old World Wisconsin would play an important role in their ceremony. According to Anne: “We felt it was the natural thing to do. Karl had always thought that the Koepsell farmstead front porch would be a perfect spot for a wedding. When our request to be married on site as part of a public event was granted, we began planning our 1880s-style Pomerian wedding to dovetail with the building’s provenance. When Pomeranians got married it was a very public event–which mirrors our objective. We love Old World Wisconsin and are so happy to be able to have our ceremony here–and we’re delighted to share it with guests as a very special event for everyone.”

All museum guests are welcome to share the celebration. A hochzeitsbitter, or wedding inviter, a traditional Pomeranian custom, will make the rounds of the crossroads village and outlying areas to invite everyone visiting the museum that day to attend the ceremony and reception afterwards.

Wedding Schedule:

11 am to 1 pm: Bride and groom’s preparations, in the Schottler and Koepsell homes.

1:45 pm: Guests may follow the bride as she rides in the horse-drawn carriage from the Schottler home to the ceremony.

2 pm: Ceremony at the Koepsell home (approximately 25 minutes)

Immediately Afterward: Reception in the Koepsell yard

Hours and Admission September 6: Old World Wisconsin is open from 10 am to 5 pm. Adults $16; children (5-17) $9 (children under 5 are free); students and senior citizens (65 and over) $14; family (two adults and two or more dependent children 5-17) $43. Fees include an all-day tram transportation pass. All details at www.oldworldwisconsin.org or by calling 262-594-6301.

Overview of Old World Wisconsin
Old World Wisconsin is located in the Milwaukee/Chicago/Madison triangle.The outdoor museum features 19th- and early 20th-century Midwestern immigrant farm and rural life. In 2014, the museum launched “Catch Wheel Fever!”–a hands-on 1890s cycling experience–to excellent guest response. During the daily operating season May through October, plus postseason and holiday events in November and December, the museum offers family friendly activities, led by period-clad interpreters, as they visit 10 working farmsteads, explore 12 heirloom gardens, interact with heritage animal breeds, and try historic crafts and trades. Old World Wisconsin is located at W372 S9727 Highway 67, Eagle, WI 53119. For general information and details about 2014 activities, call 262-594-6301 or visit www.oldworldwisconsin.org.