Objects that Connect Us: Sharing Stories Across Generations

A community event where participants share personal heirlooms and the stories behind them in an intergenerational setting.

| Event Details Friday, May 15, 2026| 5:30 PM–7:30 PM  Friday, Oct 9, 2026| 5:30 PM–7:30 PM   A Free Night of Food, Sharing and Conversation-Starting Heirlooms What can personal artifacts tell us about generations past, present and future? Discover unforeseen stories hidden within seemingly ordinary objects during this exciting event—bring your personal keepsakes and mementos to share with family, friends and community members as you learn, listen and explore history in an intimate, intergenerational setting.   This special, free program represents the Wisconsin Historical Society’s ongoing commitment to fostering meaningful connections across generations and between groups of people and organizations. By creating space for authentic storytelling and active listening, we delve into our varied histories while honoring the commonalities that unite us all. Who knows what you might uncover?  Due to the unique nature of this program, please review the “Know Before You Go” section for more planning information.   What You’ll Experience Gather around a communal table, enjoy food and reflect on family artifacts—perhaps a well-worn recipe card, a treasured photograph or an heirloom piece of jewelry  Use treasures as conversation pieces, unlocking otherwise untold narratives and memories Find surprising ties between grandparents, children and grandchildren Discover parallels between community members of diverse backgrounds  Explore the humor and love of sharing cherished traditions with a larger group  Cost Free and open to the public Advanced registration is required.  About the Location An active, community-focused space that hosts school groups, pop-up exhibits, author talks, public programs and more; located in the US Bank Building on Madison’s Capitol Square.  History Maker Space    1st Floor  US Bank Building  1 S. Pinckney Street  Madison, WI 53703  Know Before You Go & Accessibility General Program Information:   Every attendee should plan to bring with them at least one object of personal value to discuss. These items will not be donated to the Wisconsin Historical Society – they will be used to encourage and support conversations between program participants.  Pizza, salad, and non-alcoholic beverages will be provided during the program. Vegetarian and gluten-free options will be provided. If there are additional questions regarding food, participants should reach out to Jenny Pederson.    Regarding Parking & Access:    Due to the date and time of this program,  do not to park in the underground onsite garage at the U.S. Bank Plaza Building.  The U.S. Bank Plaza parking garage closes at 6 p.m. on Fridays and  will not reopen until Monday morning when regular business hours at the U.S. Bank Plaza building resume.      As an alternative to parking onsite at the U.S. Bank building, there are public parking options available in downtown Madison.  There is a public parking garage,  Capitol Square North Garage  (218 E. Mifflin St., Madison, WI 53703), located about two blocks and a 5-minute walk from the History Maker Space. In addition, there is street parking information on the  City of Madison  website.   Following parking and upon arrival at the U.S. Bank Plaza building, attendees can enter from the street through any of the doors located along S. Pinckney St., S. Webster St., and E. Washington Ave.  When arriving at the History Maker Space for the  Objects that Connect Us , participants are to check in with WHS personnel to…