Books & Local Histories

Explore a curated collection of titles that illuminate Williamsburg and the surrounding area:

• Williamsburg History Book — a comprehensive narrative of our town’s beginnings, growth, and milestones.

• Williamsburg Family History Book — genealogical sketches and family stories that connect names to places and moments in time.

• Iowa County Country Schools Book — photographs, maps, and memories documenting the one-room schools that served our rural communities.

These volumes are available for on-site use in our Historical Museum. Select titles may be available for purchase.

Genealogy Department

Our genealogy room is designed to help you trace your roots with confidence. Highlights include:

• Netha Meyers’ Extensive Genealogy Collection — a treasured compilation of family files, charts, clippings, and local records assembled over decades.

• Surname files, cemetery and church records (where available), historic maps, and community directories.

• Volunteer guidance to help you navigate resources and plan next steps in your research.

Whether you’re building a family tree or confirming a single date, we’ll help you make the most of your visit.

Historic Newspapers

Dive into the day-to-day life of Williamsburg through historic newspapers. Our holdings include:

• Bound volumes and clippings featuring community news, school events, business ads, and obituaries.

• Topic and surname references to speed up your search.

Staff and volunteers can help you locate relevant issues and show you how to safely handle older materials.

Photo Library

Step back in time with our extensive Photo Library, featuring hundreds of images that capture Williamsburg’s past:

• Portraits of local families, school groups, and community leaders.

• Streetscapes, businesses, and farmsteads that shaped daily life.

• Historic events, celebrations, and gatherings preserved through photography.

We can help you locate images by family name, location, or subject. Many photographs have been carefully cataloged and digitized to ensure their preservation for future generations.

How to Use the Collection

• On-Site Access: Materials are available for use during our open hours.

• Research Requests: Can’t visit in person? Send us a research question with names, dates, and topics, and we’ll let you know what’s possible with the collection.

Questions or planning a visit? Contact the Historical Society, we would be glad to help.