The Wavrunek Harness Shop plaque in Shawano, July 20, 2026. PC: Fox 11 Online
SHAWANO, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — A history project in the area is growing, and gaining some recognition along the way.
The effort called “Shawano Has History” centers around metal plaques placed throughout the downtown.
After two years of research, and installation work around the city, the Shawano County Historical Society project includes 20 plaques.
“We wanted to feature the history of especially downtown Shawano. The two most-recent plaques we’ve put up, 19 and 20, are on the Lieg Building, which Old Glory Candy is in. And then Chaimson’s Fair Store, which is just down the street,” said Michael Oberle, Shawano County Historical Society Board Member.
Shawano County Historical Society Board Member Michael Oberle says the sites are full of information.
“You’ll see each plaque features a photograph, text, and a QR code. The QR code takes the visitor to the Shawano County Historical Society’s website, and a webpage devoted to that site, to that plaque,” he said.
“Periodically, they will do tours of downtown, and look at the various plaques,” said David Pahl, Martin Jewellers Co-Owner.
David Pahl Co-Owns Martin Jewellers, and sponsored two plaques. He says the effort promotes local history and more.
“We appreciate that it brings additional traffic down, and that people can hear the history, and sometimes they come in, and check out the different businesses,” said Pahl.
The Wisconsin State Historical Society is recognizing Shawano County for its efforts. Michael Oberle says the presentation is scheduled for next month.
“We’re pleasantly surprised that ‘Shawano Has History’ has a good following. I think one of the things that this taught us, is that people in Shawano are very proud of their history, and like it to be told,” he said.
History leaders say more plaques are planned, including installing some around Shawano County, including downtown Bonduel.
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