Wisconsin Trust for Historic Preservation

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WISCONSIN MAIN STREET

A comprehensive program designed to revitalize downtowns and give new life to historic business districts, Main Street Wisconsin is based on the National Trust for Historic Preservation's Main Street program.  It was co-sponsored by the Wisconsin Trust, the Wisconsin Historical Society, and the former Wisconsin Department of Development (now Department of Commerce).

HERITAGE TOURISM INITIATIVE

The Heritage Tourism Initiative has helped develop grassroots heritage tourism organizations by encouraging Wisconsin communities to use their unique features to tap into the mushrooming heritage tourism market -- and protect that heritage at the same time.  This program was co-sponsored by the Wisconsin Trust, the Wisconsin Historical Society, and the former Wisconsin Department of Development, Division of Tourism (now Department of Tourism).

AGRICULTURAL BUILDINGS PRESERVATION INITIATIVE

Inspired by the National Trust's popular Barn Again! program, this initiative provides information and forums to help owners of historic agricultural buildings determine how to maintain and reuse their buildings.  It is co-sponsored by the Wisconsin Trust, the Wisconsin Historical Society, and the University of Wisconsin-Extension Program.

PUBLIC POLICY INITIATIVES

Through its Public Policy Committee, the Wisconsin Trust makes sure that the voice of historic preservation is heard in the State Capitol and administrative departments.  The Wisconsin Trust advocates for legislation and policies designed to encourage statewide historic preservation.  The Wisconsin Trust's accomplishments have included 1994 Wisconsin Act 471, a landmark law that requires all cities and villages with National Register- and State Register-listed properties to enact historic preservation ordinances.

TEN MOST ENDANGERED AND PRESERVATION WATCH

Every year the Wisconsin Trust chooses ten publicly-nominated historic properties that are threatened with damage or destruction for its Ten Most Endangered list.  This list receives extensive publicity, and listing as one of the Ten Most Endangered has helped protect several irreplaceable properties that, while not immediately threatened, may face threats in the near future.

EDUCATION

Through its Education Committee, the Wisconsin Trust offers resources and training for local historic preservationists.  The Trust offers speakers, publications, and workshops across the state.  Topics range from an introduction to historic preservation issues to forums on advanced preservation topics.

Last modified: Thursday, May 19, 2005.