Visit us when we re-open on May 15, 2026!

History in the Heart of Wisconsin

Fort Winnebago Surgeons Quarters is a nationally-registered historic site and museum located in Portage, Wisconsin, and owned and operated by the Wisconsin Society Daughters of the American Revolution (WSDAR). The site features two historic buildings: the Surgeons Quarters, where the U.S. Army Surgeons of Fort Winnebago resided from 1834 to 1854, and the Garrison School, a one-room schoolhouse that served the local population from 1850 to 1960. Each is stocked with early 19th century artifacts and documents, including medical equipment, books, furniture, blacksmith items, clocks, crockery, glassware, children's toys, and more. We are open for tours May through October each year. Come visit us soon! Plan your next visit here.

Visit

From May to October we are open for walk-in guided tours for individuals and groups, as well as reservations for school field trips and other group tours.

Events

From historical re-enactments and period encampments to apple picking and tours, we offer fun for the whole family! 
​

History

Built between 1816 and 1819, a fur trader's cabin was sold to the Army in 1828 and became the Surgeons Quarters of Fort Winnebago.
​​
"Our mission is to preserve, educate, and promote patriotism by interpreting the territorial history of the property, artifacts, and stories of the men, women, and children of our Fort Winnebago Surgeons Quarters historic site for the enrichment of our community."

Discover

"Fascinating place! I went with a friend who... especially enjoyed the tools from a physician of that time, the history, and the one room schoolhouse that was moved to that site."
​
GrandmaB123
​TripAdvisor Review

Explore

"They have many of the original furnishings, including chairs carved by Jefferson Davis who served at Fort Winnebago right after graduating from West Point... A great site with friendly staff."
​
Mary G.
​TripAdvisor Review

Connect

"Fort Winnebago was the midway point between Green Bay and Prairie du Chien during the days of fur trading. They have some unique items we have not seen before at other historic sites."
Randy R.
​​TripAdvisor Review​

Engage

"While the actual fort no longer exists, the Surgeons Quarters and schoolhouse are well worth a visit. A lot of historic artifacts... The docent led tour is well worth the minimal cost."​
​
Gene K.
TripAdvisor Review