Sheboygan County's oldest building is decorated in high Victorian style for the holidays. What to know about 'A Treemendous Celebration.'
At a time of year we focus on the good things in life and are thankful for family and traditions, Christmas is a focal point for many.
The Sheboygan County Historical Research Center, a venue steeped in local and regional history, joins the celebration this year creating A Treemendous Celebration, a community event.
The catchy name, coined by Sheboygan Falls Mayor Randy Meyer, gives a hint as to the focus of the fun.
Volunteers spent the month of November decorating the Mill House, the oldest building in Sheboygan County, in high Victorian style.
Built in 1837 by the Rochester Lumber Company for boarding their workers, the Mill House was the first home for new settlers in the county, accommodating families until they could build their own homes.
In 1860, Charles Cole purchased the structure for his two sons, William and James. He added 8 feet to the south and remodeled the building into a two-family home for them.
Today, the building houses the Sheboygan County Historical Research Center.
When you enter the Mill House, you’re greeted by volunteers ready to share their holiday cheer. A short video introduces the event and the Research Center. A beautiful fireplace, an antique out of the old Prentice House, sets the mood for Christmas. Two trees, one a very special creation from Blessed Trinity Church of Sheboygan Falls, reminds us of the reason for the season. A second tree sports gold-framed photos of the Research Center’s history.
Visitors then wander their way through the building, walking the original floorboards, ascending one of two matching staircases, with 1837 banisters decked in garland.
The room that now serves as the board room of the 1860 mirror house has been transformed into a dining room par excellence.
The table, a gift from the Kohlers of Windway, is set for a party of six. One feels an air of pageantry and a time when family and close friends dined on holiday delicacies and valued close conversation, catching up on family drama and events of the day. No cell phones at this table.
An immigrant trunk filled with antique toys takes pride of place in one corner. It’s a favorite with kids.
Lights and trees and a most interesting view out of a Victorian window with its lace curtains finish the scene.
The Mill House is a vision created by Lorrie Wilson and her team of volunteer decorators. The ladies outdid themselves.
The Research Center’s second venue, across the street at 511 Adams, is filled with about 50 lighted trees designed by local businesses, non-profits and private individuals.
Lakeland University students bring a theme of blue and gold, their college colors, to their tree.
H.C. Denison’s tree is covered in all things financial and topped with a ticker tape reminiscent of the old days of investing.
Falls Glass created one of the most unique trees in the bunch. A vision of translucent glass surrounds a brightly lit tree, giving the whole creation an ethereal feel.
Make sure to check out the banner honoring the event’s many sponsors. Without them, A Treemendous Celebration would not be possible.
The Research Center, 518 Water St., is in the Cole Historic District in Sheboygan Falls. Situated south of Monroe Street just east of the bridge, the Rochester Inn, Mersberger Financial and Kleiber Construction are also a part of the district.
This event is free and open to the public. It runs 4-9 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays. If you’re not a night driver, please come during the day. It’s not as magical, but we don’t want anyone to miss this celebration.
Beth Dippel is executive director of the Sheboygan County Historical Research Center.
This article originally appeared on Sheboygan Press: Sheboygan museum's Christmas tree exhibit a Treemendous sight to see
