What was Appleton like during the Progressive Era (1850 – 1920)? The turn of the century was a period of speculation and excitement. Americans felt the excitement of world fairs and new technologies entering their daily lives. This new exhibit at the History Museum hinges on Appleton’s evolution from a fledgling manufacturing town to a modern industrial center. Through a collection of 3,000 photographs, amateur photographer W.D. Schlafer captured this rapidly changing environment during the Progressive Era in the Fox Cities. Visitors will see how much Appleton and the Fox Cities evolved as new technologies and ideas changed the lives of area residents during this transformative period.

The History Museum at the Castle
330 E. College Avenue, Appleton, WI 54911