I first met Matt Hostak when I started working as the Archivist at the Oshkosh Public Museum over 20 years ago. Matt wanted to donate some items to the museum. He and I started talking and found that we shared a mutual interest in, and passion for, historic preservation. We were both concerned about the loss of historic buildings in Oshkosh. This led to many conversations, and Matt started volunteering for me in the Archives. He digitized dozens of historic maps of Oshkosh and Winnebago County. After stepping away from volunteering, he later returned and scanned thousands of historic photographs, more than I could possibly catalog! His work was an invaluable piece of the preservation process at the museum.
His interests led him to become an energetic amateur archaeologist. He discovered thousands of historic artifacts, many of these he donated to the Oshkosh Public Museum. His love of local history also led him to serve as a board member for the Winnebago County Historical and Archaelogical Society.
The Oshkosh community has lost a dedicated advocate for the preservation of local history. Matt contributed to a better understanding of life in our community. He helped tell the story of Oshkosh and his loss will be greatly felt.
Scott Cross, BS, MA, Retired Archivist