As the first phase in an eventual 8,000 square foot expansion, People of the Waters introduces visitors to the early cultural history of the region and establishes the overall tone for the future exhibitions. Based on the latest research, interactive and hands-on components demonstrate how glaciers created the local landscape and how indigenous people established trade routes allowing new tools and materials to reach Oshkosh.
Exhibits encourage discovery—a buried midden or food storage pit rewards the curious and careful observer. An underfoot artifact case gives visitors a glimpse of another world and era as they step into the role of an archaeologist.
People of the Waters was selected as a 2018 Award of Merit winner by the AASLH Leadership in History awards committee.