Dane County has a rich history of human settlement lasting millennia. Indigenous Peoples are known to have lived in the area that is Dane County for at least 12,000 years.
The first Europeans came to Wisconsin 400 years ago; and 200 years ago, the first permanent European settlement was established in Dane County.
In that time, an immense history has been left behind, and persists to this day. These assets take the form of archeological sites, burial sites and cemeteries, historic structures, architecturally significant buildings, and community gathering places.
Additionally, traditions in the arts, dance, music, and oral history all give our towns and communities a unique character that is worthy of preservation.
The Cultural Resource Planning team would like to hear your feedback regarding historic and cultural sites in your town! It should take less than 5 minutes to complete, and your input can help guide future planning efforts. You can take the survey by clicking here, or by following the link below:
Dane County has the fastest growing population in the state, and our historic and cultural resources are at risk.
Only 30% of the buildings in Wisconsin documented during the Great Depression by the federal Historic American Building Survey (HABS) program have survived.
Wisconsin State Law requires that communities plan for the preservation and protection of culture and history. Dane County is currently updating its guidance in the comprehensive plan for towns within Dane County. Preservation of these physical and cultural elements can benefit towns through increased economic resiliency, stronger community identity, and increased civic pride.
The Cultural Resource Planning Guide will allow towns, especially those in rural Dane County to prioritize historic and cultural identity in future growth and development plans.
Tell Us What You Think:
We would like to hear how you feel about cultural and historic sites in your town. Please click here to complete this survey by May 19, 2023, or follow the link below:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CRPGPublic
More Information
• Introduction to Cultural Planning Resource Guide (PDF)
• Cultural Resource Planning Steering Committee Agendas and Minutes (Legistar)
• National Park Service Historic Preservation Information
• Dane County Comprehensive Plan (Cultural Resources Excerpt)
• WI DOA Cultural Planning Guide (pdf)
