The Life & Lace of Mrs. Van

This past exhibition shared the remarkable story of Susannah Van Valkenburg, an early Wisconsin settler known in Oshkosh for her exquisite lacework and service as a Civil War nurse.

Known affectionately as “Mrs. Van” by her many friends, Van Valkenburg led a long and fascinating life. After emigrating to Wisconsin in 1856, she served as a nurse during the Civil War and later became active in local women’s clubs. Throughout her life, lace making remained a constant passion. Self-taught as a child, she created fine needlepoint lace admired by many, including first ladies and queens.

Mrs. Van lived in Oshkosh for 59 years and was deeply beloved by the community. Near the end of her life, she donated personal belongings and examples of her lacework to the Oshkosh Public Museum. This exhibition featured her exceptional skill with a needle alongside the stories of her extraordinary life.