About Me

Hi, I’m Austin — and I love history.

For as long as I can remember, stories of people, places, and moments from the past have fascinated me. Whether it’s the tragic sinking of the Titanic, my beloved Persian Orange Allis-Chalmers tractors, or the branches of my own family tree — I have an enduring passion for the past.

I grew up on a dairy farm in south-central Wisconsin near the little town of Markesan — ever heard of it? After high school, I headed north to the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh (yes, that Oshkosh — home of OshKosh B’gosh and the world-famous EAA AirVenture airshow). There, I studied, you guessed it — HISTORY! I not only earned my bachelor’s degree, but I also met the love of my life.

Now, I wish I could tell you I went on to become a world-famous historian — the kind who writes Pulitzer-winning books, curates exhibits for the Smithsonian, and advises the President of the United States. But instead, I chose a simpler, quieter life here in Dairyland with my beautiful wife and our two little clones.

I haven’t landed a career in history (yet), but I’ve never stopped being a historian at heart. I’m active in my community. I lead historical projects for fun. I love sharing stories that connect us to where we’ve come from.

The past has so much to teach us — if we take the time to listen. I hope the stories, projects, and reflections you find here spark your own curiosity about the past and inspire you to discover your spark for history, too.