Research center and archives of the Washington County Historical Society

Research

More Than 17,000 History Images and Historical Records

The Research Center and Archives at The Tower Heritage Center collects, preserves, and shares history images and historical records that tell the story of Washington County and the people who have made it their home. Our physical and online archives are open for public research. They contain more than 800 cubic feet of historical records and over 17,000 history images from agencies, organizations, businesses, and individuals throughout Washington County.

Washington House Hotel in West Bend, c. 1864

Browse Our Most Popular Original And Online Collections

Family and Genealogy Researc

We have an extensive collection of church and cemetery records, probates, obituaries and family histories.

Property and Residence Inquiries 

We have historical plat maps, Sanborn Fire map, tax records, bird’s eye view images, and community directories to aid your real estate or property research. 

Local Business and Organizations 

The Tower Heritage Center Archives have a rich collection of business, organization, and community files that can assist in your research.

Plan your visit!

Hours

Thursday 10:00-3:00

Friday 10:00-3:00

By appointment only, please. The archive is located on the 2nd floor of the 1889 Courthouse. Please call the intercom and we’ll greet you off the elevator.

Policies state that the bringing of writing utensils and food or beverages of any kind are prohibited. We ask you to respect the value and care we invest in our collection by handling materials with care, understanding that the stacks and archival storage are closed to the public, materials are non-circulating, and that we reserve the right to refuse to produce copies.

Daily Use Fees

Members: $10.00

Students/Teachers: $15.00

Non-Members: $25.00

Photo reproductions, copies, and other services incur additional costs. Research groups larger than two incur an additional fee of $5.00.