The John and Carolyn Sonnentag Archive Center represents a pivotal new chapter for the Marathon County Historical Society in its mission to collect, preserve and share the region’s history. This state-of-the-art facility will safeguard artifacts for the next 50 years, provide advanced educational resources and serve as a northern gateway to Wausau’s arts, culture, recreation, entertainment and shopping experiences. The groundbreaking ceremony for this exciting addition to our community took place earlier this week.
Located on the vacant lot between 3rd and 5th Streets near the Woodson History Center and Yawkey House Museum, the new three-story, 38,096 sq ft facility establishes a connected MCHS campus with convenient parking, a welcoming pedestrian flow and wow factor for visitors and residents alike. Initiated by a generous gift from John and Carolyn Sonnentag, the Archive Center addresses the urgent need for greater storage and organization, while creating opportunities to expand the collection and better showcase archives.
The design reflects a close collaboration between MCHS, the Ghidorzi design build team, County Materials and engineering experts. Precast concrete was chosen for speed, longevity, and fire protection, with durable flooring engineered to support heavy weight loads and tall ceilings to accommodate large artifacts. Advanced climate and humidity control systems further ensure the long-term preservation of the collection. The exterior draws from early 1900s transitional architecture with details inspired by downtown’s 400 Block. Many construction and landscape materials are sourced from Wisconsin, including Kafka Stone quarried right in Marathon County.
Building Construction
- No windows for light control and preservation
- Walls and floors constructed for heavy loads
- High ceilings for large artifacts
- Loading dock and Freight elevator
- Security features including exterior lighting, cameras and secured entry
- Zero entry into the building
- Climate and humidity control
- Motion-controlled lighting and other energy efficient features
- Fire suppression system with adequate exits
- Water pipes positioned away from archive areas
Interior Layout
- 26,000 sq ft of artifact storage area
- 8,000 sq ft of archive storage area
- 4,000 sq ft of workspace
- 1,000 sq ft of public space
- Separate entrance for artifact and archive storage
- Common areas include the main entrance, restrooms, janitor closet and reception room
- Flexible layout for future use
Gardens, Bike Path and Parking
- The Judd S. Alexander Garden facing 3rd Street with 6,000 sq ft of landscape gardened space, educational signage, Wausau Homes: Ruth “Marvin” Schuette Bench and plaque honoring former MCHS director Ed Schoenberger
- Bike path to extend River’s Edge trail through property
- 28 parking stalls for visitors and event attendees
Exciting Next Step in the Project Lifecycle
With the completion of the John and Carolyn Sonnentag Archive Center, MCHS will begin relocating its extensive collections and consolidating archives from multiple sites. This transition unlocks 8,500 sq ft within the Woodson History Center for redevelopment, paving the way for an expanded research library, new exhibit halls, a children’s discovery room, gift shop and enhanced interpretation of the historic Woodson House.
About Ghidorzi Design | Build | Develop
Ghidorzi is a fully integrated design build construction, real estate development, architecture and interior design firm based in Wausau, WI. The Ghidorzi design build construction approach gives owners a single source of accountability for bringing their project vision to life. The Ghidorzi Hotel Group proudly serves the business and leisure travel needs of greater Wausau with a team of exceptional hospitality professionals across three best in class properties, including the Hilton Garden Inn Wausau featuring our spirited restaurant Van Acre, Courtyard by Marriott® and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott®
