BELMONT, Wis. – As the nation prepares to commemorate America 250, Wisconsin’s First Capitol in Belmont invites visitors to experience the birthplace of Wisconsin’s government starting May 23, when the site opens for weekend visits. The historic site – recently awarded a major capital project investment – will host two special America 250 events and offer weekend interpretive on-site visits alongside exhibits highlighting the pivotal history that unfolded within these buildings.
In December 2025, the Wisconsin Historical Society received $2.6 million project approved by the Wisconsin State Building Commission to support a comprehensive restoration project. Work is scheduled to begin in 2026. Planned improvements include exterior repairs and repainting, insulation upgrades, and the construction of new bathroom and picnic facility.
“We are thrilled to receive this state investment in historic preservation said Bethany Brander, Pendarvis and First Capitol Site Manager for the Wisconsin Historical Society. “It reflects Wisconsin’s strong commitment to preserving the place where our government began. As stewards of this site, it’s inspiring to see this preservation work moving forward.”
In 1836, territorial legislators met here for 46 days, drafting 42 laws and naming Madison as the capital city – all within these two modest buildings. The Council House served as the legislative meeting place, while the Court House provided lodging for legislators.
The site offers insight into how early legislative efforts took shape during the United States’ formative years. In addition to weekend hours, visitors can take part in two special programs marking the nation’s 250thanniversary:
Upcoming Events at First Capitol
Making Wisconsin: A Hands-On History Day: June 13, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Explore the formation of Wisconsin from its territorial beginnings to the establishment of state government through a series of period-inspired activities. Historian Mary Elise Antoine will present a special talk entitled “Residents of ‘Wisconsin’ in the American Revolution.”
Reading of the Declaration of Independence: July 8, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; reading at 5 p.m.
The first public reading of the Declaration of Independence took place on July 8, 1776, at the Philadelphia State House (now Independence Hall). While this document was approved by Congress on July 4, 1776, it was not publicly read until July 8. In 2026, locations across the U.S. will present public readings including Wisconsin’s First Capitol.
First Capitol is open on Saturdays and Sundays only from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., from May 23 to Sept. 6. A $2 donation is suggested. For further information, visit FirstCapitol.org. First Capitol is located at 18904 Co Rd G, Belmont, Wisconsin.
Wisconsin Historical Society membership starts at $60 annually. Members are encouraged to pick up a PastPort which can be used to collect stamps and redeem discounts at every Wisconsin Historical Society site.
About First Capitol
First Capitol is one of the Wisconsin Historical Society’s 12 historic sites and museums. Located near the picturesque hamlet of Belmont, Wisconsin, it is the place where the first territorial Legislature established Wisconsin’s territorial government. These lawmakers huddled in the cold during the fall and winter of 1836 and built the framework that would evolve into the state of Wisconsin twelve years later. During this time, they put 42 laws on the books, established a judicial system, called for roads and railroads and most significantly, established Madison as the permanent capital city. For hours and information visit firstcapitol.org or call (608) 987-2122. Wisconsin Historical Society members receive free admission to this site during regular operating hours.
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 wisconsinhistory.org.
