Peshtigo Historical Society


Remembering the Deadliest Fire in US History

Schedule a tour of the Peshtigo Fire Museum

Our Story

Learn about the Peshtigo Historical Society and our mission to learn, participate, preserve, and promote.

Visit the Museum

Find details about our museum and location. Visit us today to learn more about the deadliest fire in US History.

Support Us

Donate to the Peshtigo Fire Museum and help us preserve the history of Peshtigo for many years to come.

Fourth Wall Films’ “Peshtigo” Film about Deadly Wildfire receives Wisconsin Humanities Grant Award


Peshtigo Fire Museum building exterior

The deadliest fire in US history raged through Peshtigo, Wisconsin.

On October 8, 1871, a firestorm roared through Peshtigo and surrounding areas. It not only killed between 1,500-2,000 people, it but also destroyed the entire community and its livelihood. The Peshtigo Fire Museum preserves this heritage through:

  • Storytelling and Presentations
  • Exhibits of artifacts from the fire
  • Displays of the lifestyle at the time of the disaster
  • A cemetery to memorialize those who died

The Fire Museum is housed in the first church built after the fire.


Get in Touch

Call or send a message to the Peshtigo Historical Society to learn more about our museum, the history of the Peshtigo Fire, and how you can support our efforts.