IXL Historical Museum

The IXL Historical Museum, located in Hermansville, Michigan, is a historic office building, residence, and museum complex. The main building of the museum was originally constructed as the headquarters for the Wisconsin Land & Lumber Company. This building now serves as a museum, providing visitors with a glimpse into the history of the company and the region.

Historical Significance of the Museum

The IXL Historical Museum was organized in 1982. The main building, also known as the Wisconsin Land and Lumber Company Office, has been recognized for its historical significance. It was designated a Michigan State Historic Site in 1973 and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1991.

Exhibits and Artifacts at the Museum

The IXL Historical Museum holds a collection of documents from the Wisconsin Land & Lumber Company that are available for public viewing. The building also houses a variety of historical items, including crank telephones, oak desks, dictaphones, inkwells, and adding machines. The paymaster's office, located near an entrance, is a reminder of the time when workers were paid in company scrip, which they could use to purchase items from the company store. The second story of the building served as a residence.