Museum prepares gangster display highlighting Charlie Allison and Al Capone's hideout

A new gangster display is set to take shape at the Sawyer County Museum, with preparations underway for a captivating exhibit that promises to delve into the area's notorious past. The museum's basement is being readied for the installation, although a completion date remains uncertain.

During a recent meeting, museum representatives highlighted a recent talk by Don Lisonbee, who shared fascinating stories about his grandfather, Charlie Allison, the caretaker of the infamous hideout once owned by mobsters. Lisonbee's insights, drawn from his book on the subject, captivated attendees, shedding light on the hideout's historical significance, including its connection to the infamous Saint Valentine's Day Massacre.

As summer approaches, the museum will shift to extended hours, opening Thursday through Saturday from noon to 4 PM, following a school group visit scheduled for Memorial Day. Recent activities included a photography project that captured tools and artifacts from the bunkhouse, which will be featured in a new building on Main Street.

The discussion also touched on the hideout's ownership history, revealing that while Al Capone never officially owned the property, his associates played significant roles in its legacy. Notably, Fred Goetz, an engineer and pilot, oversaw its construction, while Edward "Easy Eddie" O'Hare, Capone's lawyer, ultimately became the first to hold the title.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for community involvement, as board members expressed a desire to support the museum's efforts in preserving Sawyer County's rich history. The museum's ongoing work not only honors the past but also engages the community in understanding the stories that shaped their region.