If These Woods Could Talk

An oral history of Wisconsin's Northwoods

What?

The Rhinelander District Library is seeking stories about the Northwoods. We want to record your voice telling your stories the way you want to tell them.

So, what constitutes a story? Let’s talk about…

a life in the Northwoods and how things have changed
folklore and cultural memory
local historical events you witnessed
your own historical research
the biggest musky your grandpa ever pulled out of Boom Lake
a biography of someone you admire(d)
the time the whole town came together to save the orphanage
a conversation with another lifelong local
the High School Mock Trial National Championship team you were on
a family secret that’s too good to keep

Image of Rhinelander's Brown Street in 1960's

Okay! I have a story to tell. Where do I begin?

We want to help you tell your story the way it should be told. You could…

record a conversation with a friend related to a topic
interview someone
come to RDL to be interviewed yourself
find a comfortable spot to record on your own
put a recorder in the middle of a big, round table and let the family hash out the minute details

How do I record?

Use your own handheld recorder or even your smartphone.

What if I don't have a recording device?

RDL has you covered! Check out our easy-to-use recording kit. It’s simple to set up, and includes a recorder and two microphones.

What sort of audio editing software do I need?

Don’t worry about it. RDL staff will make sure your story is cleaned up and ready to be heard.

Mission

This project was created by the Rhinelander District Library.

Our mission is to collect, preserve, and promote local histories to foster a sense of community and encourage conversation.

We amass stories, perspectives, and first-hand accounts far and wide by offering a simple recording kit for patrons of the Rhinelander District Library to check out.

We aim to build an accessible online archive of local oral history with valuable information that sparks new connections and new interests.

Check Out the Recording Archive!

Find recordings on most podcast platforms by searching for “If These Woods Could Talk.” Follow the links below to YouTube. This archive is being updated continuously!

CONTACT

Matt Persike

LSA II / Project Lead, If These Woods Could Talk

715-365-1070 Ext. 2074

[email protected]

Rhinelander District Library

106 N. Stevens St.

Rhinelander, WI 54501

715-365-1070

FIND IT AT RDL