SUN PRAIRIE RISING

Contribution from Sun Prairie City News, February 2026

By Paul Esser, Mayor Emeritus

The Colonial Club: Serving Seniors in Northwest Dane County for more than 55 years.

In 1969, something new began in Sun Prairie: the Colonial Club. Created as a senior center for older adults in northeast Dane County, it was the first organization in the area formed solely to meet seniors’ needs. While earlier community efforts provided social and recreational activities, the Colonial Club marked a commitment to supporting older adults in more comprehensive way.

Colonial Club founding reflected a nationwide movement in the late 1960’s, as communities placed greater emphasis on aging and quality of life. Seniors were recognized for their contributions, especially those who served during World War II, and communities sought to support independence, dignity and connection.

From the start, leaders understood that seniors needed more than social activities. Many wanted to remain in their own homes, but doing so often required extra support. Needs included access to nutritious meals, help with household tasks, transportation and guidance navigating county, state and federal government programs. Overtime, the Colonial Club expanded to include adult day care and case management.

The Colonial Club first meeting the basement of what is now the Sun Prairie Historical Museum at 115 East Main St. That space was quickly outgrown. In 1971,construction began on a new facility at 301 Blankenheim Dr, made possible through the generous support of Gavin and Helen Cremer, owners of The Wisconsin Cheeseman, a successful mail-order company based in Sun Prairie. Their philanthropy played a key role in the Colonial Club’s early growth, later helped funded two building additions.

Unlike many senior centers in Wisconsin, which are owned and operated by their municipality, the Colonial Club is independent. Most operating funds come from grants and donations, along with financial support from municipalities throughout northeast Dane County. This reflects the Club‘s role in serving multiple communities rather than a single city.

Today, the Colonial Club offers a wide range of programs and services for adults age 55 and older. About 25 ongoing programs are offered, from book clubs to bingo, along with 40 or more specialized educational classes and workshops each year. These activities stimulate the mind, encourage physical activity and create social connections.

The Colonial Club is unique because it combines educational and social programs with a full set of supportive services under one roof. Its mission is to serve the diverse needs of older adults through social, educational and supportive services that promote independence, connection and quality of life, including helping people remain in their homes for as long as it is safely possible. Services such as Adult Day Care, Supportive Home Care, Case Management, Nutrition Services and Transportation play a critical role in supporting both older adults and their families.

Author Disclosure: Mr. Paul Esser is a newly appointed member of the board for Colonial Club