Discover Wisconsin's Underground Railroad History at the Milton House Museum

Wisconsin played a much bigger role in American history than many people realize, and one of the best places to experience that story is just a short drive from Madison.

DJ Fusion sits down with Julie Marquardt from the Milton House Museum, Wisconsin's only certified Underground Railroad site open to the public.

Built in 1844, four years before Wisconsin officially became a state, the Milton House originally served as a stagecoach inn before becoming an important stop along the Underground Railroad. Today, visitors can walk through the historic inn and even travel through the original underground tunnel that once helped freedom seekers move safely through Wisconsin.

During the interview, Julie explains how the museum preserves this important chapter of American history while giving visitors an immersive experience that goes far beyond a traditional museum tour.

The conversation also highlights the museum's Signature Event on Saturday, September 26 at the Janesville Performing Arts Center.

The evening features:
The internationally renowned Fisk Jubilee Singers from Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee.
Milwaukee's Ko-Thi Dance Company, celebrating African, Caribbean, and African American culture through music, dance, and storytelling.

Because the Milton House Museum operates as a nonprofit, events like this help preserve one of Wisconsin's most important historical landmarks while continuing to educate future generations.

If you're looking for a meaningful day trip from Madison or want to experience a unique piece of Wisconsin history, the Milton House Museum offers guided tours Tuesday through Sunday throughout the summer.

Learn More

Visit miltonhouse.org for:
Tour information
Museum hours
Signature Event tickets
Wisconsin Underground Railroad history

Whether you're passionate about history, education, or supporting local nonprofits, the Milton House Museum is a destination worth experiencing.

Discover Wisconsin's Underground Railroad History at the Milton House Museum
Wisconsin played a much bigger role in American history than many people realize, and one of the best places to experience that story is just a short drive from Madison.
DJ Fusion sits down with&nbsp;Julie Marquardt from the Milton House Museum, Wisconsin's only certified Underground Railroad site open to the public.
Built in 1844, four years before Wisconsin officially became a state, the Milton House originally served as a stagecoach inn before becoming an important stop along the Underground Railroad. Today, visitors can walk through the historic inn and even travel through the original underground tunnel that once helped freedom seekers move safely through Wisconsin.
During the interview, Julie explains how the museum preserves this important chapter of American history while giving visitors an immersive experience that goes far beyond a traditional museum tour.
The conversation also highlights the museum's Signature Event on Saturday, September 26 at the Janesville Performing Arts Center.
The evening features:
<ul data-start="1367" data-end="1609">
<li data-section-id="2im7jp" data-start="1367" data-end="1468">The internationally renowned Fisk Jubilee Singers from Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee.</li>
<li data-section-id="1l0hg2p" data-start="1469" data-end="1609">Milwaukee's Ko-Thi Dance Company, celebrating African, Caribbean, and African American culture through music, dance, and storytelling.</li>
</ul>
Because the Milton House Museum operates as a nonprofit, events like this help preserve one of Wisconsin's most important historical landmarks while continuing to educate future generations.
If you're looking for a meaningful day trip from Madison or want to experience a unique piece of Wisconsin history, the Milton House Museum offers guided tours Tuesday through Sunday throughout the summer.
Learn More
Visit miltonhouse.org for:
<ul data-start="2058" data-end="2158">
<li data-section-id="1e9upz3" data-start="2058" data-end="2076">Tour information</li>
<li data-section-id="yfvodm" data-start="2077" data-end="2091">Museum hours</li>
<li data-section-id="17vv04w" data-start="2092" data-end="2117">Signature Event tickets</li>
<li data-section-id="1ymbfyt" data-start="2118" data-end="2158">Wisconsin Underground Railroad history</li>
</ul>
Whether you're passionate about history, education, or supporting local nonprofits, the Milton House Museum is a destination worth experiencing.

On demand from DJ Fusion on 93.1 JAMZ.  

Live Monday - Friday 3pm - 7pm cst & Sunday nights 10pm. 

On demand from DJ Fusion on 93.1 JAMZ.  
Live Monday - Friday 3pm - 7pm cst &amp; Sunday nights 10pm.

Fusion Afternoon's

93.1 Jamz! <a href="http://www.madtownjamz.com">www.madtownjamz.com</a>&nbsp;

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Milton House Museum: Discover Wisconsin's Underground Railroad History

For six decades, the East Madison Community Center has been a place where neighbors become family. From youth programs and summer camps to senior activities, food assistance, and community events, the center has helped thousands of Madison residents build lasting connections.

DJ Fusion recently sat down with Executive Director Regina and longtime community advocate Tari to talk about the East Madison Community Center's upcoming 60th Anniversary Celebration and the impact the organization continues to make every day.

The free community celebration takes place Saturday, July 25, from Noon until 4:00 PM at the East Madison Community Center, 8 Straubel Court in Madison. Everyone is invited to attend, whether you've been connected to the center for years or you're discovering it for the first time.

Guests can enjoy an afternoon packed with family friendly activities including:
Live music with DJ Fusion
Petting zoo
Dunk tank
Food and Culver's Frozen Custard
Community partner booths
EMCC Trivia Bingo
Building tours
Fire truck visits
Children's activities and face painting
A special community welcome at 1:00 PM

One of the highlights of the event will be the EMCC Memory Tree, where current and former visitors can share their favorite memories from the past 60 years. Those stories will become a permanent installation inside the community center, preserving the history and impact of the organization for future generations.

During the interview, Tari reflected on growing up at the East Madison Community Center and remembered neighborhood block parties where the Madison Fire Department would take kids for rides around the neighborhood on a fire truck. While those days may be gone, the fire department will once again be part of this year's celebration by bringing a truck for families to explore.

Beyond the anniversary celebration, the East Madison Community Center continues to serve residents of all ages throughout the year. Current programs include youth summer camp, educational programming, a daily walk in food pantry, family services, senior programming, recreation opportunities, community meetings, and event space for local organizations.

Executive Director Regina says the mission has remained the same for 60 years: creating a welcoming place where everyone in the community belongs.

The 60th Anniversary Celebration is made possible through the support of TruStage, MG&E, North Street Neighborhood Association, and UW Credit Union, along with many dedicated volunteers and community partners.

If you've never visited the East Madison Community Center, this anniversary celebration is the perfect opportunity to meet the people behind the organization, explore the facility, and see firsthand why it has remained such an important part of Madison for six decades.

Watch DJ Fusion's full interview with Regina and Tari below to learn more about the East Madison Community Center, hear stories from its history, and find out what makes this neighborhood organization such a special place.

For additional information about programs, services, and upcoming events, visit EastMadisonCC.org or follow the East Madison Community Center on Facebook.

For six decades, the East Madison Community Center has been a place where neighbors become family. From youth programs and summer camps to senior activities, food assistance, and community events, the center has helped thousands of Madison residents build lasting connections.
DJ Fusion recently sat down with Executive Director Regina and longtime community advocate Tari to talk about the East Madison Community Center's upcoming 60th Anniversary Celebration and the impact the organization continues to make every day.
The free community celebration takes place Saturday, July 25, from Noon until 4:00 PM at the East Madison Community Center, 8 Straubel Court in Madison. Everyone is invited to attend, whether you've been connected to the center for years or you're discovering it for the first time.
Guests can enjoy an afternoon packed with family friendly activities including:
<ul data-spread="false">
<li>Live music with DJ Fusion</li>
<li>Petting zoo</li>
<li>Dunk tank</li>
<li>Food and Culver's Frozen Custard</li>
<li>Community partner booths</li>
<li>EMCC Trivia Bingo</li>
<li>Building tours</li>
<li>Fire truck visits</li>
<li>Children's activities and face painting</li>
<li>A special community welcome at 1:00 PM</li>
</ul>
One of the highlights of the event will be the EMCC Memory Tree, where current and former visitors can share their favorite memories from the past 60 years. Those stories will become a permanent installation inside the community center, preserving the history and impact of the organization for future generations.
During the interview, Tari reflected on growing up at the East Madison Community Center and remembered neighborhood block parties where the Madison Fire Department would take kids for rides around the neighborhood on a fire truck. While those days may be gone, the fire department will once again be part of this year's celebration by bringing a truck for families to explore.
Beyond the anniversary celebration, the East Madison Community Center continues to serve residents of all ages throughout the year. Current programs include youth summer camp, educational programming, a daily walk in food pantry, family services, senior programming, recreation opportunities, community meetings, and event space for local organizations.
Executive Director Regina says the mission has remained the same for 60 years: creating a welcoming place where everyone in the community belongs.
The 60th Anniversary Celebration is made possible through the support of TruStage, MG&amp;E, North Street Neighborhood Association, and UW Credit Union, along with many dedicated volunteers and community partners.
If you've never visited the East Madison Community Center, this anniversary celebration is the perfect opportunity to meet the people behind the organization, explore the facility, and see firsthand why it has remained such an important part of Madison for six decades.
Watch DJ Fusion's full interview with Regina and Tari below to learn more about the East Madison Community Center, hear stories from its history, and find out what makes this neighborhood organization such a special place.
For additional information about programs, services, and upcoming events, visit EastMadisonCC.org or follow the East Madison Community Center on Facebook.

East Madison Community Center Celebrates 60 Years of Serving Madison with Free Community Celebration

School supply costs continue to rise, and for many military and veteran families, preparing children for the upcoming school year can create significant financial stress. That's why Stand Down Madison is asking the community to come together for its Supplies for Success school supply drive.

The initiative is designed to provide backpacks and essential classroom supplies to children from military and veteran households throughout Dane County. Organizers are collecting commonly needed items such as pencils, pens, crayons, notebooks, folders, binders, markers, and other educational supplies.

According to Stand Down Madison, the average cost of school supplies now exceeds $100 per child before families even begin paying for extracurricular activities, sports, theater programs, and other school related expenses. The organization hopes the community can help reduce that burden by donating supplies before the July 13 collection deadline.

Donations can be dropped off at participating One Community Bank locations throughout Dane County, at Verona Safety's Madison location, or purchased directly through the organization's Amazon Wish List. Every contribution helps ensure local children have the tools they need to succeed in the classroom.

The collected supplies will be distributed during the Supplies for Success event on July 16 at the Dane County Fair. Veterans will receive free admission, while fairgoers can enjoy discounted admission before 3 PM. The event will also feature community resources, therapy dogs, a blood drive, free donuts from Greenbush Bakery, and opportunities to connect with organizations serving veterans and their families.

Stand Down Madison works year round to support veterans experiencing homelessness and those at risk of homelessness. Through community partnerships, the organization helps connect veterans with housing, employment, legal assistance, healthcare resources, and other critical services.

As back to school season approaches, Supplies for Success offers a simple way for the community to give back to the men and women who served our country and the families who support them every day.

#StandDownMadison #SuppliesForSuccess #Veterans #DaneCountyFair #CommunitySupport #FusionAfternoons

School supply costs continue to rise, and for many military and veteran families, preparing children for the upcoming school year can create significant financial stress. That's why Stand Down Madison is asking the community to come together for its Supplies for Success school supply drive.
The initiative is designed to provide backpacks and essential classroom supplies to children from military and veteran households throughout Dane County. Organizers are collecting commonly needed items such as pencils, pens, crayons, notebooks, folders, binders, markers, and other educational supplies.
According to Stand Down Madison, the average cost of school supplies now exceeds $100 per child before families even begin paying for extracurricular activities, sports, theater programs, and other school related expenses. The organization hopes the community can help reduce that burden by donating supplies before the July 13 collection deadline.
Donations can be dropped off at participating One Community Bank locations throughout Dane County, at Verona Safety's Madison location, or purchased directly through the organization's Amazon Wish List. Every contribution helps ensure local children have the tools they need to succeed in the classroom.
The collected supplies will be distributed during the Supplies for Success event on July 16 at the Dane County Fair. Veterans will receive free admission, while fairgoers can enjoy discounted admission before 3 PM. The event will also feature community resources, therapy dogs, a blood drive, free donuts from Greenbush Bakery, and opportunities to connect with organizations serving veterans and their families.
Stand Down Madison works year round to support veterans experiencing homelessness and those at risk of homelessness. Through community partnerships, the organization helps connect veterans with housing, employment, legal assistance, healthcare resources, and other critical services.
As back to school season approaches, Supplies for Success offers a simple way for the community to give back to the men and women who served our country and the families who support them every day.
#StandDownMadison #SuppliesForSuccess #Veterans #DaneCountyFair #CommunitySupport #FusionAfternoons

Supplies for Success Returns to the Dane County Fair to Support Veteran Families

 

Looking for a fun way to get active, connect with the community, and support local students? Madison College is serving up all three with the Dream Doubles: Ultimate Pickleball Challenge on Saturday, June 27, at Pickleball Kingdom in Sun Prairie.

The event is designed for everyone, from first time players who have never picked up a paddle to experienced competitors looking for a challenge. Hosted by the Madison College Alumni and Friends Network, the event will raise funds that help create educational opportunities and support pathways for students pursuing higher education.

Why Pickleball?

Pickleball continues to be one of the fastest growing sports in America, and the growth has been especially noticeable throughout the Madison area. According to event organizer and Capital Area Pickleball Association ambassador Jimmy, local pickleball courts have grown from just a handful of locations to more than 200 courts throughout the region.

Part of the sport's appeal is its accessibility. Pickleball combines elements of tennis, table tennis, and badminton, making it easy for beginners to learn while still offering enough strategy and skill to challenge experienced players.

"It doesn't matter if you're new to pickleball or advanced," Jimmy explained during a recent interview on 93.1 JAMZ. "It's for everybody."

Something for Every Skill Level

The Dream Doubles Pickleball Challenge features multiple activities throughout the day:

Gold Medal Challenges and Beginner Social

From 9 a.m. until approximately noon, participants can enjoy a variety of fun skills based challenges, including target games, accuracy contests, and interactive activities designed to introduce people to the sport.

Even better, the Beginner Social includes instruction from experienced pickleball trainers who will teach the rules, techniques, and fundamentals of the game.

Best of all, participation in the Beginner Social and Gold Medal Challenges is completely free.

Pickleball Scramble Tournament

For players looking for competition, the afternoon session features a Pickleball Scramble from noon until 2 p.m.

The scramble includes:
Intermediate Division
Advanced Division
First, Second, and Third Place Awards
Opportunities to compete alongside and against former collegiate athletes

Registration for the scramble is just $20.

Special Guests and Community Partners

The event will feature appearances from former Badger athletes and local sports figures, creating unique opportunities for participants to play alongside accomplished competitors.

Several organizations have partnered with Madison College to make the event possible, including:
Capital Area Pickleball Association
UW Credit Union
BaseCamp Fitness
Madison College Fitness and Recreation Center
Madison College Fitness, Wellness and Recreation Program
WolfPack Athletics

The Madison College mascot Woofie is also expected to make an appearance throughout the day.

Supporting Madison College Students

While the pickleball action will certainly be exciting, the event's mission goes beyond the court.

Funds raised through registration fees, sponsorships, and donations support Madison College initiatives that help students access affordable education and reduce financial barriers that often prevent individuals from pursuing their academic goals.

Madison College continues to provide affordable pathways to higher education while helping students build careers without taking on overwhelming debt.

Event Details

Dream Doubles: Ultimate Pickleball Challenge

📅 Saturday, June 27

📍 Pickleball Kingdom, Sun Prairie, Wisconsin

⏰ 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

🏓 Beginner Social & Gold Medal Challenges: Free

🏓 Intermediate & Advanced Pickleball Scramble: $20

Whether you're a seasoned player, curious beginner, or simply looking to support a great cause, the Dream Doubles Pickleball Challenge offers a fun day of fitness, community engagement, and friendly competition.

&nbsp;
Looking for a fun way to get active, connect with the community, and support local students? Madison College is serving up all three with the Dream Doubles: Ultimate Pickleball Challenge on Saturday, June 27, at Pickleball Kingdom in Sun Prairie.
The event is designed for everyone, from first time players who have never picked up a paddle to experienced competitors looking for a challenge. Hosted by the Madison College Alumni and Friends Network, the event will raise funds that help create educational opportunities and support pathways for students pursuing higher education.
Why Pickleball?
Pickleball continues to be one of the fastest growing sports in America, and the growth has been especially noticeable throughout the Madison area. According to event organizer and Capital Area Pickleball Association ambassador Jimmy, local pickleball courts have grown from just a handful of locations to more than 200 courts throughout the region.
Part of the sport's appeal is its accessibility. Pickleball combines elements of tennis, table tennis, and badminton, making it easy for beginners to learn while still offering enough strategy and skill to challenge experienced players.
"It doesn't matter if you're new to pickleball or advanced," Jimmy explained during a recent interview on 93.1 JAMZ. "It's for everybody."
Something for Every Skill Level
The Dream Doubles Pickleball Challenge features multiple activities throughout the day:
Gold Medal Challenges and Beginner Social
From 9 a.m. until approximately noon, participants can enjoy a variety of fun skills based challenges, including target games, accuracy contests, and interactive activities designed to introduce people to the sport.
Even better, the Beginner Social includes instruction from experienced pickleball trainers who will teach the rules, techniques, and fundamentals of the game.
Best of all, participation in the Beginner Social and Gold Medal Challenges is completely free.
Pickleball Scramble Tournament
For players looking for competition, the afternoon session features a Pickleball Scramble from noon until 2 p.m.
The scramble includes:
<ul data-spread="false">
<li>Intermediate Division</li>
<li>Advanced Division</li>
<li>First, Second, and Third Place Awards</li>
<li>Opportunities to compete alongside and against former collegiate athletes</li>
</ul>
Registration for the scramble is just $20.
Special Guests and Community Partners
The event will feature appearances from former Badger athletes and local sports figures, creating unique opportunities for participants to play alongside accomplished competitors.
Several organizations have partnered with Madison College to make the event possible, including:
<ul data-spread="false">
<li>Capital Area Pickleball Association</li>
<li>UW Credit Union</li>
<li>BaseCamp Fitness</li>
<li>Madison College Fitness and Recreation Center</li>
<li>Madison College Fitness, Wellness and Recreation Program</li>
<li>WolfPack Athletics</li>
</ul>
The Madison College mascot Woofie is also expected to make an appearance throughout the day.
Supporting Madison College Students
While the pickleball action will certainly be exciting, the event's mission goes beyond the court.
Funds raised through registration fees, sponsorships, and donations support Madison College initiatives that help students access affordable education and reduce financial barriers that often prevent individuals from pursuing their academic goals.
Madison College continues to provide affordable pathways to higher education while helping students build careers without taking on overwhelming debt.
Event Details
Dream Doubles: Ultimate Pickleball Challenge
📅 Saturday, June 27
📍 Pickleball Kingdom, Sun Prairie, Wisconsin
⏰ 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
🏓 Beginner Social &amp; Gold Medal Challenges: Free
🏓 Intermediate &amp; Advanced Pickleball Scramble: $20
Whether you're a seasoned player, curious beginner, or simply looking to support a great cause, the Dream Doubles Pickleball Challenge offers a fun day of fitness, community engagement, and friendly competition.

Milton House Museum: Discover Wisconsin's Underground Railroad History

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