Just a month after a tornado did widespread damage at Old World Wisconsin, the state historic site is ready to open again.
On the night of June 21st a tornado touched down and moved across the grounds of Old World Wisconsin, downing nearly 2,500 trees and damaging several historic structures. Since then, director Dawn St. George says they’ve been working to repair the damage.
St. George says DNR crews, brick layers, outside contractors, and volunteers have played a vital role in restoring the site. Old World Wisconsin has been closed since the storm, while repairs were underway. Even though some buildings will remain closed to the public, Waukesha County attraction will be open again on Saturday.
Old World Wisconsin provides a glimpse of life in the state over 200 years ago, with demonstrations of blacksmithing, farming techniques, and views of many historic buildings.
The attraction sees most of its visitors come through in the summer months, and St. George is confident that the public will return and make the rest of the season strong for them.
The site did have insurance and also received emergency funding to help make repairs.