Documentary project reveals the LGBTQ heritage of Marathon County

When The Pit (100 Scott St.) opened on July 1, 1973, it was the first “gay bar” in north central Wisconsin and became well-known as a space where everyone was accepted and welcomed.  For the next nine years, The Pit was a beacon that shone bright across the Northwoods, attracting closeted customers from Rice Lake to Rhinelander to Iron Mountain.  

Owner Vicky Hasko had no idea she was making history. When she moved out west, The Pit became The Pendulum. The Lark, Camp, Masquers, Mad Hatters, and Oz followed her lead. And now, over 50 years later, The Emerald (320 Washington St.) continues a 50+ year legacy of belonging in downtown Wausau.

Inspired by this untold story, a new collaboration will be producing a documentary on the history of hometown pride.  The Wisconsin LGBTQ History Project, Marathon County Historical Society, Wausau Pride, and community partners are working with filmmaker Brenton Wildman of Wildman Productions to research, document, and celebrate the stories of LGBTQ pioneers who made Wausau a happier, healthier, and more inclusive place to be.

The film is expected to be released in early 2027 with a marquee level celebration in downtown Wausau. In addition, the team is pursuing a Wisconsin State Historic Marker to mark the site where The Pit once stood, preserving the memory of a space that served as a beacon for LGBTQ people across north central Wisconsin.  The Wisconsin Historical Society approved the pre-application in mid-March, and now the request advances to State Historic Preservation Officer review.

The project was inspired by a series of random 2025 events: The Emerald Night Club's grand opening, the History Project’s relaunch of their Places Directory, renewed interest from the Marathon County Historical Society in documenting underrepresented local histories, and Hasko’s relocation back to the Midwest.

Everything came together out of pure coincidence -- and set the stage for a remarkable story.

“For years, the History Project had a long list of unanswered questions about The Pit,” said Michail Takach, chair and president. “We knew Vicky left Wausau decades ago, but we had no way of locating or contacting her. Fortunately, someone saw my posts in a Wausau Facebook group and connected us for the conversation of a lifetime.”

“When we expand the stories we tell about our past, we expand who feels seen in our present. This film helps ensure that future generations understand that belonging has deep roots here.” said Blake Opal-Wahoske, Executive Director of the Marathon County Historical Society

Filmmaker Brenton Wildman added, "Uncovering this forgotten history changed the way I see my hometown. Wausau has long been home to spaces that welcomed the queer community, and that legacy deserves to be recognized. As someone who grew up gay here, this story resonates on a personal level. Learning about the individuals who paved the way is powerful, and I believe it’s a story that will connect with anyone who grew up queer in a small town."

The production team is currently conducting oral history interviews, gathering photographs and memorabilia, and researching archival materials. 

Do you have memories, photographs, or artifacts connected to The Pit, The Emerald, or LGBTQ life in north central Wisconsin?  Contact the Project today!

This initiative is made possible through the generous support of the B.A. & Esther Greenheck Foundation, whose commitment helps bring this work to life. 

Watch for additional updates as the project advances to Opening Night!