Stratford Area Historical Society continuing Well House fundraiser

In 2024, the Stratford Area Historical Society (SAHS) initiated a fundraising campaign to restore the exterior of the historic Well House.

The restoration estimate is $15,000 to repair the roof, soffit/fascia, and brickwork. Business sponsors this year have contributed $5,000 toward the repairs.

SAHS members and supporters contributed funds in memory of loved ones and friends. The campaign will continue in 2025 in order to raise the remaining funds needed.

History of the Well House

In 1920, the Village of Stratford Waterworks realized the need for a well to provide residents with an ample supply of clean water. A crew of men hand-dug a well, 24 feet deep and 22 feet in diameter.

The excavation revealed blue rock that had to be blasted to finish the well. The Well House brick structure, located on Larch Street, was built to cover the hand-dug reservoir.

Until 1985, the pump drew water to be stored in Stratford’s first water tower, located on State Highway 153. Well #1 was properly abandoned in June 1995, and the Well House structure was donated to SAHS.

How you can help

In addition to the Well House repairs, funds are also needed to repair the Stratford Area Museum (the red log cabin, former American Legion Post #307 in Klemme Park).

Donations are also appreciated to provide educational programs for the community and museum displays. SAHS is a 501(c)3, a tax receipt is provided for project donations.

To help fund repairs and programs, contact the Stratford Area Historical Society by calling 715-391-9494, sending an email to stratfordareahistoricalsociety@gmail.com, or writing to Stratford Historical Society, PO Box 306, Stratford, WI 54484.

OVER 100 YEARS OLD - The Stratford Well House, built in the 1920s to cover the village’s first hand-dug well, is slated for renovations as part of an ongoing fundraiser organized by the Stratford Area Historical Society.

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