A free public history program in Sparta will explore the story of Wisconsin’s former State Public School for Dependent and Neglected Children.
On Thursday, March 19th at 7 p.m., Jarrod Roll, Director of the Monroe County Local History Room and Museum, will present “Gone But Not Forgotten: History of the Wisconsin State School / Child Center.” The presentation will look at the institution that operated in Sparta from 1886 to 1976 and once housed more than 500 children on a 25-building campus.
The program will discuss the lives of the children who stayed there, changing approaches to child welfare, and the lasting impact the institution had on the community.
To accommodate a larger audience, the program will be held at Sparta United Methodist Church, 210 North Court Street, rather than the Local History Room. Admission is free, with a suggested one-dollar donation to support future programs.
For more information, call 608-269-8680.