Every year, thanks to the Waukesha Preservation Alliance, Waukesha 1834 Club, Waukesha Historical Society and Museum and many volunteers and sponsors, we are blessed to have a weekend in May devoted to discovery. What was Waukesha was like before we got here, what and who made it famous and what if anything remains of Waukesha's springs heyday?
There's so much to learn. My favorite part of Historic Preservation Days are the open houses and tours. Different homes, businesses and districts on the tours every year help keep me interested and informed. This year highlights the Madison Street District, and I'll be interested in learning more about the Spence Tower.
This year a bus tour will take participants around to several springs on Saturday. Knowing there are still a few preserved springs around is one thing, visiting several up close and learning all about them is priceless. If you have any interest in Waukesha's Springs Era consider riding this bus.
It never ceases to amaze me how little I know about the city's vast historic past, even after living here many, many years. This weekend is perfect for busy folk like me who often drive past restored homes and sometimes wonder when it was built. Every year, during a weekend in May, a little more of the mystery is chipped away.
Take a look at the Waukesha Preservation Alliance web page or the Waukesha Preservation Days 2014 Event Guidebook PDF for details.