The Wisconsin Historical Society connects people to the past by collecting, preserving and sharing stories. It accomplishes this through its State Archives, Library, Museum, 11 Historic Sites, School Services, Local History, WHS Press and the State Historic Preservation Office.

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The State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) helps people preserve places of enduring value and presents a fresh perspective on history through publications, programs and services. In partnership with communities, organizations and individuals, the SHPO works to identify, interpret and preserve historic places for the benefit of present and future generations.

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Here are some of the SHPO’s activities:

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• Administers the state’s burial sites preservation program.

• Is in charge of the Wisconsin portion of the National Register of Historic Places in partnership with the National Park Service, and manages the State Register of Historic Places.

• Provides educational resources and assistance in historic preservation to property owners, local organizations and governments.

• Maintains state records on archaeological sites, protects sites on public lands, administers property tax exemptions and provides access to research and public education about Wisconsin’s archaeological resources.

• Reviews federal, state and local projects for their effect on historic and archaeological properties.

• Certifies historic building rehabilitation projects for state and federal income tax credits.

• Maintains historic building, archaeological and burial site inventories.

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Joe DeRose, Historian, of the Wisconsin State Historic Preservation Office, will be our speaker for the evening. Joe has worked at the Wisconsin Historical Society since 1990.  Prior to that, he worked for the Arkansas Historic Preservation Program; the National Park Service at the Illinois and Michigan Canal National Heritage Corridor in Joliet, Illinois; and at Isle Royale National Park in Michigan.