From the Manitowoc County Historical Society
A century from now when researchers, historians or even someone writing a Preserving the Past column want to know about the coronavirus, they should have far more resources than we have on past Wisconsin pandemics. There is a need to preserve the stories, photos and videos that chronicle this historic event of the COVID-19 pandemic in Manitowoc County.
Our Manitowoc County Historical Society has collected items that document our local history since 1906. There are thousands of letters diaries, scrapbooks, photographs, slides, and items in our archives sharing the story of our community. There are only few stories and images from prior pandemics that swept through the County, such as the flu and tuberculosis outbreaks from the early 1900s. Our Manitowoc County Historical Society is making sure the voices, stories and images of how COVID-19 affected Wisconsin are preserved for future generations and are asking you to help.
Right now, we are all grappling with a unique historical moment, as we respond as a state, nation, and world to a pandemic. What was working from home like? What technology was used for e-learning? What activities or sporting events were closed during the pandemic? Why were people hoarding meat and toilet paper and cleaning products? This will give future historians a glimpse into our daily lives.
Write a journal about these days. You, and your kids, can write your experiences, draw, or make a video diary. We are living in a moving in history and you can help add to the archives for the Manitowoc County Historical Society. Future researchers and visitors to the Manitowoc County Historical Society will have you to thank for sharing a part of your lives with them as they work to understand our current lived experience.To learn more about documenting your COVID – 19 journey and submitting your story, please visit the Manitowoc County Historical Society’s website at ManitowocCountyHistory.org/telling-covid19 or call (920) 684-4445.
