The Marathon County Historical Society has embarked on a $4,460,000 fundraising campaign to restore the Yawkey House and safeguard its place as one of our Nation’s recognized treasures. Renovations to the Society's Headquarters and Library are also planned and will include adding an elevator to provide access to all levels and climate control to safeguard the historical archives and artifacts.

The Yawkey House restoration plan includes restoring the kitchen and butler's pantry on the first floor, and restoring and furnishing the entire second floor. The beautiful carriage house located on the property will also be restored, and a catering kitchen and restrooms will be added. When completed, the carriage house meeting/reception room will be made available for community use. Finally, the Yawkey House grounds and formal garden, designed in 1911 by Morrell and Michols, complete with Pergola, will be restored.

We are very pleased to announce that the Jeffris Family Foundation from Janesville Wisconsin has recently awarded the Marathon County Historical Society a $1,000,000 challenge grant towards the restoration of the Yawkey House. This prestigious and highly competitive challenge grant is awarded by the Jeffris Family Foundation to assist nonprofit organizations in completing restoration projects. Our challenge is to match this generous grant two to one.

Your gift or pledge at any level can help us secure our $1,000,000 challenge grant from the Jeffris Foundation. Please help us meet our challenge and become an important part of the future of the Marathon County Historical Society.

For additional information on giving opportunities or any aspect of the Yawkey House project, please contact the Marathon County Historical Society at 715-842-5750 or print our online pledge form and mail with your check to:

Open The Doors To History Campaign
c/o Marathon County Historical Society
410 McIndoe Street
Wausau, WI 54403