A century ago, a small group of citizens met at the Courthouse and made a bold decision—to protect Door County’s history before it was lost to time. Because of them, our stories and places still live on today.
Now, it’s our turn.
As we celebrate 100 years, we’re launching a Centennial Campaign to raise $100,000—an investment in preserving our historic sites, strengthening our collections, and expanding educational programs for the next generation.
Be Part of It
We’re inviting supporters to step forward at every level:
- Century Leaders – $10,000
- Legacy Circle – $5,000
- Founding Members – $1,000
Our goal is to secure our first 25 Founding Members by May 15 and reach all 100 by September 1.
You can also take part with a $100 Centennial Gift—a meaningful way to honor one year of our first century.
Why It Matters
Every gift helps preserve Door County’s history and ensures it remains vibrant, accessible, and meaningful for generations to come.
A 100th anniversary only comes once. The next 100 years begin with us.
👉 Give by May 15 to help build momentum
👉 Give by September 1 to be recognized in this historic milestone
P.S. We’ll announce our first 25 Founding Members shortly after May 15—we hope you’re one of them.
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The family picture you posted in ‘The Next 100 Years Begin With Us’ article is of the Carl & Augusta Peil family, early settlers of Baileys Harbor with their children and spouses! Their son Otto and his wife Hedwig Heinrich are my great grandparents. Hedwig came to America in the late 1880’s by becoming a mail order bride. After giving birth to 10 children she went on to build a career in real estate, flower gardening, wall papering and as a midwife. The Loving Spice of Life is a book that tells her story of finding a way to America and achieving a life full of opportunities. Richard and Annie Jonas Peil are also in the photo. Their wedding attire a beautiful blue dress along with the corsages is part of the Door County Museum and Archive. Stop by to see it at the museum. Richard was known as a local veterinarian, a vital part of the community at a point in time when most of the population depended on their animals for subsistence. The Peil sisters married into Kalms, Tishler, Anschutz and Oldenburg families. All local names with family still in Door County. Each family made a contribution to their respective communities. Thank you for including this picture. It represents so many families and how interconnected so many of us are in Door County.
I knew you’d recognize it immediately! Thanks for sharing the details.