For the First Time in Decades: Archives Made Available
For the first time in decades, archival material from the historic Diocese of Milwaukee is available to the public for research—with the historic dioceses of Fond du Lac and Eau Claire soon to follow.
Housed on the beautiful campus of Racine’s DeKoven Center, the Diocese of Wisconsin Archives is now open and professionally staffed, serving researchers of every level—from the curious parishioner to the seasoned scholar. With space that was carefully prepared and negotiated following the 2024 reunion of the three dioceses, the archives bring together decades of church records, photographs, convention journals, sacramental registers, parish histories, and collections from religious communities such as the Community of St. Mary and the Sisters of the Holy Nativity.
Dr. Randolph Miller, PhD in Modern European History, has been part of the team guiding archival organization and transfer. He notes that the original goal was always broad accessibility: “Whether you’re a theologian, genealogist, student, or simply a parishioner tracing family roots, the staff at DeKoven makes these archives not only accessible but pleasant to work in.”
A Visitor’s Testimony
The archives recently received high praise from a visitor, Daniel, who shared this reflection on his research into Rev. Pedelupé:
“Lynn and Rory welcomed me kindly and openly at the DeKoven Center. They made the archives available to me the hours that they were there. I was able to freely look through boxes and folders with the excellent finding aid that Rory provided. In the Standing Committee documents I found a letter handwritten and signed by Pedelupé! It is a key element of the story of his missionary work. And, of course, it is just fantastic to hold in one’s hands the paper that one’s ancestor held to write an important document so long ago, in 1861.”
He continued with appreciation not only for the research experience but for the hospitality offered on the DeKoven grounds:
“The whole experience was wonderful. What a beautiful facility on beautiful grounds. The welcome was great. My brother Paul accompanied me at the start and the end and we both received VIP treatment with complimentary coffee and a brief tour given by Lynn.”
DeKoven Center, Racine, Wisconsin — Photographer David Wilson from Oak Park, Illinois, USA
Looking Ahead
Currently, the archivist is completing work on the historic Milwaukee materials. Next, they will turn to collections from Fond du Lac and Eau Claire, which are already housed in reserve near DeKoven and waiting to be processed. The goal is to make the complete story of Wisconsin Episcopalians—encompassing letters, photographs, journals, and parish histories—available in one central location for the first time.
For those who wish to schedule an appointment or learn more, visit DeKoven Center Archives.
