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Meet the Man Who Made the Dells Famous
About Us
Visiting H.H. Bennett Studio & Museum takes you back to a Wisconsin Dells that is very different from the one you see today. Like the photography process perfected by the studio and museum’s namesake, the captivating story develops before your eyes through stunning images and artifacts, engaging exhibits, and hands-on experiences for all ages.
On your walk through the museum, see the stunning landscape photographs that helped attract some of the first tourists to the area. You can recreate “The Leap,” as you attempt to jump the same distance seen in one of Bennett’s most iconic photos. You can even get your portrait “struck” on metal in Bennett’s studio, a timeless treasure to remember your visit. Steer a riverboat down the Wisconsin River and explore Wisconsin Dells history, including the history of the Ho-Chunk Nation, on whose ancestral land the museum stands today.
Things To Explore
1875 PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO
The oldest operating business in the Wisconsin Dells and what is believed to be the oldest continuously operating photography studio in the country. This historic space showcases Bennett’s original photographs, glass plate negatives equipment, photography inventions, cameras, and equipment. You can also book an appointment to have a tintype photo of you “struck” in the studio.
MUSEUM OF THE DELLS
Experience the fascinating history of the Wisconsin Dells (formerly Kilbourn City) through interactive and engaging exhibits exploring Bennett’s life, the people of the Ho-Chunk Nation (the inhabitants, since time immemorial, of the area where H.H. Bennett Studio & Museum stands), Dells tourism history, and more!
Houghton Exhibition
Open through 2022
The collection of photos in this exhibition are those that George Houghton is best remembered for; glimpses into soldier’s camp life between the winter of 1861 and spring of 1863. Visit the exhibition in-person to see all the images in the collection!
The Studio Experience
Step back in time and experience the historic photography studio like never before! Have your portrait “struck” using the same wet plate photography method used by H.H. Bennett, in the same studio, over 100 years ago. Learn about Tintype photography all while the authentic historic lens captures your one-of-a-kind image that will last a lifetime.
H.H. Bennett Studio & Museum Gallery
Learn with the Wisconsin Historical Society
Field Trips
The best day of your school year awaits! Don’t just read about history, experience it! Field Trips at the Wisconsin Historical Society’s historic sites and museums allow students to step into the worlds they’re studying through fun adventures and engaging experiences around the state for grades k-12.
