August 27, 2022 the Friends of the Madeline Island Museum (Friends) opened their first annual meeting with a walking tour. Fifteen board members and seven interested individuals met at the museum and walked on Whitefish Road to the Treaty Hall marker to learn more about the 1854 Treaty. Linda Mack and Paul DeMain shared their understanding of the Treaty and its place in Madeline Island history. As the group returned to the museum, Linda drew their attention to Nebraska Row and why Col. Woods moved from Mission Hill to build the first homes on the Row.

Following the walking tour, board members enjoyed refreshments at the museum before attending to business at the first Annual Meeting. President Linda Mack recapped accomplishments in our first year, including filing legal documents that make the organization an official nonprofit in Wisconsin. Linda introduced Keldi Merton, the Site Director for the museum, and Keldi described priorities for the upcoming year. Treasurer Barb Coffin reviewed the budget and Secretary Pixie Martin, along with media consultant, Kate Bortell, introduced the website to the group. Members concluded the session by taking a survey which captured how they wish to contribute their time and talents to the Friends in our second year together.