Wisconsin Dells in Columbia County, Wisconsin — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)

H. H. Bennett Studio

Kilbourn Landmark

— America’s Oldest Photographic Studio · Established in 1865 —

Photographed By Keith L, May 14, 2008

1. Kilbourn Landmark Marker

Inscription. This building was constructed in 1875 by Henry Hamilton Bennett, pioneer landscape photographer, nationally known for his artistry, technical excellence and inventive genius. His views of this area brought the earliest tourists to his beloved Dells of Wisconsin. Generations of Bennetts have continued his work.

Erected 1976.

Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Arts, Letters, Music • Industry & Commerce. A significant historical year for this entry is 1875.

Location. 43° 37.65′ N, 89° 46.476′ W. Marker is in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin, in Columbia County. Marker is on Broadway Street (State Highway 16/23) west of Oak Street, on the right when traveling west. Marker is outside of the H. H. Bennett Studio & History Center. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 215 Broadway Street, Wisconsin Dells WI 53965, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Hero of the Red River (within shouting distance of this marker); Bailey's Landing (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Stroud Bank (about 400 feet away); Alexander Mitchell Steamboat Anchor (about 600 feet away); The Wisconsin River (about 700 feet away); Bailey’s Eddy – Municipal Dock

Paid Advertisement

Click on the ad for more information.
Please report objectionable advertising to the Editor.

Click or scan to see
this page online

(about 700 feet away); The Railroads (about 800 feet away); River Excursions (about 800 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Wisconsin Dells.

Also see . . .
1. H. H. Bennett Studio & History Center. "...the quaint little town he knew and loved has been transformed into a major tourism haven. Get the full story in the museum dedicated to the man who made Wisconsin Dells famous." (Submitted on May 21, 2008.)

2. The H.H. Bennett Studio. "Only one other building like this is known to have existed in the United States." (Submitted on May 21, 2008.)

H. H. Bennett Studio image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Keith L, May 14, 2008

2. H. H. Bennett Studio

H. H. Bennett · Dells’ oldest business · 1865

H. H. Bennett Museum/Studio image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Keith L, May 14, 2008

3. H. H. Bennett Museum/Studio

H. H. Bennett Studio & History Center image. Click for full size.

Photographed By William J. Toman, September 19, 2010

4. H. H. Bennett Studio & History Center

Nearby Plaque image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Keith L, May 14, 2008

5. Nearby Plaque

In Tribute to Oliver and Jean Dyer Reese. Oliver W. Reese and Jean Dyer Reese were instrumental in preserving the history and integrity of Wisconsin Dells for many decades. Oliver learned photography and photo conservation from H.H. Bennett’s daughters Miriam Bennett and Ruth Bennett Dyer. Oliver and Jean operated the H.H. Bennett Studio until 1999, when they gave the studio and all Bennett’s works and equipment to the Wisconsin Historical Society. Jean, granddaughter of H.H. Bennett, was instrumental in chronicling the history of the Dells and preserving this studio. Oliver envisioned the Dells as a welcoming place for all visitors. He spearheaded the successful effort to re-create the Dells train depot.

Credits. This page was last revised on December 28, 2019. It was originally submitted on May 21, 2008, by Keith L of Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin. This page has been viewed 2,280 times since then and 15 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on May 21, 2008, by Keith L of Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin. 4. submitted on September 20, 2010, by William J. Toman of Green Lake, Wisconsin. 5. submitted on May 21, 2008, by Keith L of Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin. • J. J. Prats was the editor who published this page.