Wisconsin Dells, WI. – H.H. Bennett Studio & Museum, one of the Wisconsin Historical Society’s 12 historic sites and museums, has reopened for in-person experiences. The site is open Thursday through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. until closing day of the season on Sunday, October 31, 2021. Guests can purchase general admission tickets at the museum store on site, and do not need to make reservations in advance.
“We are excited to host visitors for in-person experiences at H.H. Bennett Studio & Museum after the unprecedented time apart,” said David Rambow, site director. “Locals and tourists alike have missed visiting this landmark in the heart of downtown Wisconsin Dells, and the team is excited to resume sharing the stories of the studio’s namesake who contributed so much to the history of the Dells and Wisconsin.”
Guests can expect to spend about an hour exploring the studio and museum. They will learn about H.H. Bennett’s early days, his relationship with the Ho-Chunk Nation, and how the photographer and inventor used his skills to “make the Dells famous.” Guests can engage with informative videos and experience stereoscopic views, and will also walk through the original 1875 historic photography studio used by H.H. Bennett and his family to produce stunning landscape photographs of the area as well as studio portraits.
For guests who want to have their portrait “struck” using the same wet plate photography method used in the studio over 100 years ago, the TinType Experience offers the opportunity to have a custom portrait created. Guests will experience the sights, smells, challenges and excitement of participating in a 19th century portrait session and receive a bespoke photograph to take home. Pricing information is available online and registration for this special experience must be completed 24 hours in advance.
H.H. Bennett Studio & Museum also offers the DigiType Photograph online experience for those who prefer to engage with the studio from the comfort of home. The experience transforms a digital image into a one-of-a-kind work of art on metal, a timeless heirloom that can be passed down for generations or gifted to a loved one to mark a special occasion. To learn more about H.H. Bennett Studio and Museum, visit hhbennettstudio.wisconsinhistory.org.
For the most up to date information about all 12 of the Wisconsin Historical Society’s sites and museums, visit wisconsinhistory.org/sites.
About H.H. Bennett Studio & Museum
Henry Hamilton Bennett, considered one of the preeminent landscape photographers of the 19th century, built his first personal studio in the Wisconsin Dells in 1875, attracting global attention and new visitors to the region. The studio remains the oldest business currently operating in the Wisconsin Dells and is one of the oldest working photography studios in the nation.
About Wisconsin Historical Society
The Wisconsin Historical Society, founded in 1846, ranks as one of the largest, most active and most diversified state historical societies in the nation. As both a state agency and a private membership organization, its mission is to help people connect to the past by collecting, preserving and sharing stories. The Wisconsin Historical Society serves millions of people every year through a wide range of sites, programs and services. For more information, visit www.wisconsinhistory.org.
