Fort Walla Walla Museum brings back a favorite Living History character, turn-of-the century madam Josephine Wolfe for a Living History performance May 5 in the Pioneer Village, weather permitting. Diane Somerville portrays the famed Walla Walla brothel owner and philanthropist.

In 1859, Wolfe, a 23-year-old German woman established one of Walla Walla’s first and longest-running brothels at 11 W. Alder Ave. With miners and speculators pouring through town, there was no shortage of clientele.

“Dutch Jo” lived in her business parlor, where she remained until her death in 1909. Described as a charming and capable, she also had a reputation as a ruthless businesswoman.

She insisted that her women sex workers have proper health care. The women kept half their earnings, the other half going to the house. Wolfe contributed generously to local charitable causes, and she provided a place for sick and injured firefighters to recuperate. She was known to have purchased cemetery plots at Mountain View Cemetery in Walla Walla for both firefighters and prostitutes, that they might have decent burials when they died.

Her business did well. City records show she paid county taxes in 1908 of $11,464. There are no photographs or portraits of Wolfe available, for her will stipulated destruction of all such images.

Living History is a volunteer troupe of historical personalities that fills Sunday afternoons at 2 p.m. with performances all season long, from April through the end of October. The characters speak of their lives and times and welcome dialogue and inquiries from the audience.

The Museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $12 adults, $10 seniors and students, $5 children ages 6-12, and free for children under 6. Museum members receive free admission all year. Memberships start at just $35. Visit our calendar with upcoming events at fwwm.org/all events. For more information call 509-525-7703 or visit fwwm.org. The Museum is in Fort Walla Walla Park at 755 NE Myra Road, Walla Walla, Wash.