An invitation to join Preservation Racine

Mission Statement

Preservation Racine is a 501(c)(3) non-profit volunteer organization whose mission is to identify and promote the preservation of buildings, districts, and sites in Racine County that have historical, architectural, archeological, aesthetic and/or cultural heritage. We strive to create, educate and develop public awareness/ interest and appreciation of the community's historical and architectural heritage. We look to serve as a resource and repository of historic preservation and restoration information, encourage community pride and promote the economic benefits of historic preservation.

Preservation and Restoration

Preservation Racine has cooperated with city and other preservation minded organizations to save significant buildings such as the Walker House, the Blake House, Edward Jordan Hall, the Chicago & North Western Railway Station, and Garfield School from demolition.

Service

Preservation Racine helped to establish the ordinance creating the Racine Landmarks Preservation Commission. During its existence, members frequently served on this commission and other preservation related boards.

Education

In addition to our library of educational materials, informational newsletters and other historical documentation, programs are available to schools and civic organizations. Donations are made to other organizations for preservation of books, maps, and archival material.

Research

Our membership does research and has assisted in preparing nominations to the National Register of Historic Places. Research files on local buildings are maintained in our office and can be accessed by appointment, at the Blake House, 936 South Main Street. (262) 634-5748

Meetings

Meetings are usually held the first Monday of the month, often in historic buildings. Tours and the history of these buildings are often part of the program.

Newsletter

A quarterly newsletter is sent to all members of Preservation Racine, City and County officials, and is distributed in the community. It contains research articles on Racine architecture and history, a review of our activities, calendar of events, and other articles of interest.

Publications

Members have researched and written the following publications:
Renewing our Roots: Central City and Southside
Renewing our Roots: The Northside Racine's Carriage Houses and Barns Thirty-two Picture Postcards of Old Racine, Wisconsin
Guidebook to Mound Cemetery
Booklets for our annual Tour of Historic Places Grace Notes in the Skyline: The Story of Steeples

Awards

Century Awards: In celebration of National
Preservation Month, framed certificates are awarded each year to the owners of buildings that are at least a century old and that have been well maintained by their owners. Century Building plaques are available to purchase to identify Racine County buildings that qualify.

Annual Tour

A tour of Historic Places is held on the last Sunday in September. Tour-goers are guided through historically and architecturally significant buildings.

Member Benefits

• Informational monthly meetings
• Historical quarterly newsletters
• Opportunity to participate in the Tour of Historic Places by recognizing and researching historical buildings and more