LEARNING ABOUT LOGGING. Kids hear about Wisconsin's logging history in the bunkhouse at the Wisconsin Logging Museum.

The two museums located in Eau Claire’s Carson Park are officially becoming one entity.

The Chippewa Valley Museum recently announced that its members have agreed via an in-person vote to move ahead with previously announced plans to merge with the Wisconsin Logging Museum, their next-door neighbor.

The museums had first informed members about the proposed merger in July. 

"I’m looking forward to working more closely with WLM’s current director, Rachel Lange,” Chippewa Valley Museum Executive Director Carrie Ronnander said. “And we’re excited to have the opportunity to better share regional stories through our museums and their programs.”  

REELING IN THE PAST. Part of the vacation-themed exhibit at the Chippewa Valley Museum.

Under the merger, Lange will have the new title of curator, and Ronnander will remain the executive director of the combined organization.

After the vote – which the Chippewa Valley Museum said was held in accordance with its bylaws – and with the agreement of the boards of directors of both museums, the organization will officially merge Dec. 31. “The organization looks forward to a strong future and enhanced visitor experience by sharing operations,” the museum said in a media announcement.

The Wisconsin Logging Museum, previously known as the Paul Bunyan Logging Camp, first opened in Carson Park in 1936. It’s home to buildings that replicate a 19th-century logging camp, including a bunkhouse, a cook’s shanty, a barn, a blacksmith’s shop, and more – plus the well-known fiberglass figures of the legendary lumberjack and his blue ox, Babe.

The Chippewa Valley Museum was first formed as the Chippewa Valley Historical Society in 1952, and the museum in Carson Park opened in 1974. The museum has grown to encompass other buildings, including the Sunnyview School, the Anderson Log House, and the Schlegelmilch House.