The Brookfield Scene

It all starts in May during Wisconsin’s Historic Preservation and Archaeology Month. History comes alive at the Dousman Stagecoach Inn in Brookfield. The Inn is located at 1075 Pilgrim Parkway (between Bluemound and Gebhardt Roads).

The 1843 Inn opens for guided public tours on the first and third Sundays from May through October. Tours are offered from 1 to 4 p.m. Admission is $4 Adults, $1 Children, $3 Seniors and $10 families.

A new exhibit, “Flags of Our Forefathers,” starts its three-month run at the Inn on Sunday, May 6. Over fifteen historic flags will be displayed. The oldest flag dates to 1867.

On May 5 and 6, the Elmbrook Historical Society hosts its thirteenth annual Civil War Days Re-enactment. Men, women and children will camp on the grounds of the Dousman Stagecoach Inn over night. Activities begin at 10 a.m. and run through 4 p.m. each day.

Visitors can stroll the grounds and visit with re-enactors dressed in period attire. Uniformed Union and confederate soldiers will practice military maneuvers. Women and children will spend their days with 1860s activities. Fruit pies will bake underground, yarn will be spun, clothing woven, songs will be sung and games will be played. Wood carvers, tinsmiths and others will demonstrate their skills.

The Inn and its outbuildings will be open for self-guided tours. A silent auction, food and refreshments are available.

Park at Pilgrim Park Middle School and ride the free shuttle to the grounds. $4 Adults; $1.50 Children; Under 5 Free.

On Monday, May 21st, author and theatre owner Larry Widen speak about the rich heritage of movie theaters in Milwaukee. After the lecture, Widen will be available to autograph his most recent book, “Silver Screens.” The 7:30 p.m. talk will be held at Brookfield’s Senior Community Center, 2000 N. Calhoun Road. It is free and open to the public.

For more information call 262 782-4057 or check www.ElmbrookHistorical Society.org.

Last week’s blog was an important departure from Brookfield’s early history, but now it’s time to return to the 1860s. So far, we’ve learned that some homes in our community date back to the mid 19th Century.

Some readers want more - others have very specific questions. One reader asked whether the Cushing’s of Brookfield were related to the Cushing’s in Delafield. I haven’t yet verified any relatedness, but there is a park in Delafield honoring the two Delafield Cushing brothers who served admirably during the Civil War. Their "Cushing Cannon" still fires today. In fact, if you read on, it will be coming to Brookfield on May 5 and 6.

Another reader's great-great grandfather’s brother (Johann Nettesheim) served in the 28th Wisconsin regiment. She is interested in learning more about that regiment. I am sure there are Civil War buffs who can answer her question.

Although the Civil War occurred years ago, and seemingly far from the Elmbrook area, the Civil War did touch families in Brookfield. Between 1861 and 1865, 196 men from the Brookfield Township served in the 28th Division Wisconsin infantry. 80% returned from the conflict to their Brookfield homesteads and families. One in five Brookfield soldiers died – 32 died from wounds or disease and 5 were killed in action. Four men deserted from service.

On May 5 and 6, the grounds of the 1843 Dousman Stagecoach Inn in Brookfield will spring to life at the Civil War Days Re-enactment. It is sponsored by the Elmbrook Historical Society.

"Soldiers" (re-enactors) in their confederate and union army uniforms set up camp on the grounds of the Inn. Women and children will dress in period attire. Women will care for their families during the military maneuvers and demonstrate 1860 era activities (making clothes and making meals). “Abraham Lincoln” will address the crowd.

Visitors are invited to roam the grounds and talk with re-enactors. Families are invited to tour the historic Dousman Stagecoach Inn, blacksmith shop and other structures. Adults and children can learn how clothing was made in the 1860s and visit the “suttlers” offering antique goods. Today’s kids can participate in old-time children’s games. Kids (of all ages) enjoy meeting “Abraham Lincoln” as he strolls the grounds. Food is available.

The May 5 and 6 event runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Free shuttle service is offered from the Pilgrim Park Middle School parking lot. For more information, check www.ElmbrookHistoricalSociety.com. Admission is charged.

Share you’re knowledge about Brookfield and the Civil War with fellow readers. Just email me at JW_Blog.