Talking Spirits XXVIII: Forest Hill Cemetery Tours

Wisconsin Was There: Badgers Building a Better Future

In 1776, the United States of America declared its independence from Great Britain and has been working toward a more perfect Union since. Two hundred and fifty years later, the Wisconsin Veterans Museum commemorates that undying American spirit with our 28th annual Talking Spirits: Forest Hill Cemetery Tours.

This year, tours feature four vignettes that highlight the contributions of Wisconsinites who embodied and advanced the ideals that sparked that fight for independence. Come and hear about our ties to the American Revolution, learn about the lasting impact of Wisconsin’s service members and families, and discover advances in science and technology pioneered by our state’s citizenry.

Tour Dates  Sep 28 – Oct 4. 2026
Registration and ticket sales open the last week in August.

Featured Vignettes

General George E. Bryant - A descendant of Revolutionary War patriots, Gen. George E. Bryant served during the Civil War. Afterward, he continued in public service championing progressive causes. His efforts were vital in opening the GAR Memorial Hall, which later became the Wisconsin Veterans Museum.

Lillian Frautschi Baker - Daughter of a Swiss immigrant and wife of a WWI solider, she served and supported family and community in their efforts to build a version of the American dream.

John Bardeen - One of only five people to be awarded two Nobel Prizes. Bardeen's work with transistors and superconductivity is credited with bringing about computers and the information age.

Dr. William S. Middleton - WWI veteran and teacher at the UW School of Medicine later became Chief Medical Director of the Department of Medicine and Surgery of the U.S. Veterans Administration. You may recognize the name if you’ve ever visited the VA hospital in Madison.