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, Feb 21, 2026 | Dean Robbins presents Wisconsin Idols: 100 Heroes Who Changed the State, the World and Me

Jackie Robinson, Oprah Winfrey, Harrison Ford, Elvis Presley, Orson Welles—at first glance, these household names may seem unrelated to Wisconsin history. But in an engaging essay collection, Dean Robbins brings them—and many others—together, offering a unique perspective on legendary figures with often surprising connections to the state. Get a firsthand look at pictures and videos and hear humorous anecdotes as Robbins establishes Wisconsin as a notably influential crossroads for people who changed the world. Wisconsin Idols has been praised by Wisconsin Public Radio, the Wisconsin State Journal, Milwaukee Magazine, the Capital Times and WTMJ-TV, and was chosen as Book of the Month by both the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel and Madison Magazine.

Dean Robbins is a journalist who has contributed to USA Today, The New York Daily News, GRAMMY magazine, and other national media outlets, as well as serving as editor in chief of Isthmus and On Wisconsin magazine. He is also a children’s author whose books have appeared on many best-of-the-year lists, earning praise in the New York Times, Los Angeles Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal.

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