Wade House Timeless Tales Speaker Series

Settle into the Walnut Room, located in Wade House’s Visitor Center on Highway 23, and prepare to learn, discuss and engage with captivating stories from celebrated authors and historians alike. From a deep-dive on the infamous wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald to a discussion on notable Wisconsin heroes who have shaped the state, the country and even the world, our history—and the speakers who share it—have countless exciting facts, secrets and stories to tell.

Every Timeless Tales Talk at Wade House includes a special presentation, a live question-and-answer segment and, often, an opportunity to purchase a book signed by the presenting author or authors. Learn more about each speaker and presentation dates below.

Saturday, Jan 31, 2026 | Steve Ackerman presents The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald: The Ship, the Storm, and the Song

How did the storm that sank the Edmund Fitzgerald leave its mark on the Great Lakes—and on Wisconsin's maritime history? Join Steve Ackerman with UW-Madison as he explores the famous wreck, offering perspectives on the weather that contributed to the now-infamous disaster, the construction of the ship itself and the popular tune by Gordon Lightfoot that has shown up in folklore, commercial media and more.

Steve Ackerman is the Former Vice Chancellor for Research and Graduate Education at UW-Madison. Ackerman, an Emeritus Professor within the Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences, is an expert in the area of satellite meteorology.

Cost:

Adults (18-64): $8
Teens (13-17): $8
Seniors (65+): $6
Children (5-12): $6
Children under 5: Free

Society members receive a 10% discount

BOOK TICKETS