Historic Rising Star Mill Hosts Music at the Mill Concert Series This Summer

NELSONVILLE, Wis. – This summer, the Portage County Historical Society invites music and history lovers to experience unforgettable live performances at one of Wisconsin’s most unique historic venues. The Music at the Mill Concert Series returns to the 1868 Rising Star Mill in Nelsonville, pairing acclaimed regional talent with the charm of a preserved 19th-century grist mill.
Set against the rustic beauty of the Mill’s interior or its scenic outdoor grounds, each concert offers an intimate, one-of-a-kind musical experience. Proceeds directly support the ongoing preservation and educational mission of the Portage County Historical Society at their Rising Star Mill historic site, one of the last remaining mills of its kind in Wisconsin and proudly operated by the Portage County Historical Society since 1985.
2025 Concert Lineup (All shows begin at 6:30 PM):

• June 25 – Shawndell Marks
  Supporting Sponsor: William Schierl and Sarena Melotte
  A powerhouse singer-songwriter and pianist, Marks blends heartfelt Americana with bluesy undertones. She’s also a member of the acclaimed Madison-based trio Gin, Chocolate & Bottle Rockets.
  Tickets: $10 members / $15 non-members / $20 at the door
• July 15 – Jeff Massey
  Supporting Sponsor: David and Amy Bakken
  Best known as the frontman of Chicago’s Steepwater Band, Massey delivers gritty blues-rock with searing guitar work and soulful vocals rooted in classic rock tradition.
  Tickets: $15 members / $20 non-members / $25 at the door
• August 20 – Rucksack Revolution
  Presenting Sponsor: David and Amy Bakken; Supporting Sponsor: John Omernik
  Featuring Adam Greuel (Horseshoes & Hand Grenades) and Sarah Vos (Dead Horses), this duo offers soaring harmonies and lyrical folk storytelling.
  Tickets: $20 members / $25 non-members / $30 at the door
• September 17 – Ben Majeska
  A Stevens Point native and guitarist for the nationally touring jamgrass group Armchair Boogie, Majeska’s solo sets blend bluegrass, folk, and funk-infused acoustic energy.
  Tickets: $10 members / $15 non-members / $20 at the door

Seating is limited and advance ticket purchase is recommended. All shows are family-friendly and support the Historical Society’s efforts to maintain the Mill as a vibrant community gathering space.
“The Rising Star Mill offers historic charm that you just can’t find anywhere else,” said John Harry, Executive Director of the Portage County Historical Society. “These concerts not only bring outstanding musicians to our community, they help preserve a site that connects us to our local history in meaningful ways.”
For more info go to pchswi.org/specialevents