Think & Drink: The Peshtigo Fire @ WMM

Thursday, March 5, 2026 - 6:30pm to 8:00pm


Event banner featuring an ink of a town on a river on fire.

An ecologist and research scientist with the Wisconsin DNR describes the harrowing night of Oct. 8, 1871, when the deadliest wildfire in recorded history occurred.

Jed Meunier, using tree-ring and fire-scar evidence, challenges the belief that logging alone caused the disaster. He says that extreme drought, regional fires, and winds created the conditions for a catastrophe. He explores what the event can teach us about wildfire risk today and into the future.

Admission is free. Limited bar opens at 6. Registration to see a live stream also available.

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