First Lady Recognizes Greendale as 'A Preserve Community'

Michelle Obama has designated the Village of Greendale as a Preserve America Community.

Through this designation Greendale is recognized for its efforts in historic preservation initiatives. The Village will receive a certificate of designation signed by Mrs. Obama.

The eight year old federal program encourages and supports community efforts to preserve cultural and natural heritage.

The Greendale Historical Society applied for the program.

Over 840 communities in the nation have received the designation, with 20 in Wisconsin. Communities receive the national recognition for their accomplishments in preserving special places and telling history.  Greendale and other communities are selected based on their protection and celebration of heritage, use of historic assets for economic development and encouragement to involve citizens in their efforts to preserve history.

The program strives for a greater shared knowledge about the nation's past, to strengthen regional identities and local pride, increase local participation in preserving heritage assets and support for the economic vitality of communities.

"The Village’s unique history is one of the things that makes us special and contributes to the outstanding quality of life here," said village manager Todd Michaels.

Village president John Hermes give praise to the historical society for their efforts.

"Greendale's story  as one of the United States first planned communities is born from depths of the Great Depression, and upon ideals formed in this era of struggle and sacrifice," Hermes said. "The residents of Greendale have always held this heritage dear.  We salute the continuing efforts of the Greendale Historical Society to preserve our history which provides the bases for this significant and prestigious designation."