Historic Preservation Week starts

“See! Save! Celebrate!” is the theme of this year’s Historic Preservation Week in Aberdeen, which runs today (May 12) through Saturday (May 18).

The week is co-sponsored by the Brown County/Aberdeen Landmarks Commission and the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

“Historic preservation is all about revitalizing neighborhoods, reviving downtown, renewing public buildings, rejuvenating farmsteads and fostering local pride,” says a news release from the Landmarks Commission.

This is accomplished through tours, surveys, advice, markers, forums, stewardship recognition and publications, according to the release.

Sometime this summer, the commission will publish the scholarly work of Art Buntin on Moccasin Creek. That publication has consumed years of research time, according to the release.

On Tuesday evening (May 14), local residents have an opportunity to see the Krikac Auditorium on the Northern State University campus and celebrate its restoration. The free event begins at 7 p.m.

Earl Weisenberger, the project manager, will lead a tour and discussion for the restoration of the 106-year-old facility. The presentation will include pictures of Krikac from the 1950s and ’60s as well as recent pictures. The event will last about an hour and include a performance by a Northern vocal group. Attendees are encouraged to park in the Barnett Center parking lot or elsewhere because the Aberdeen Recreation and Cultural Center spring dance recital is taking place at the Johnson Fine Arts Center.

The Brown County/Aberdeen Landmarks Commission exists through the cooperation of the city of Aberdeen, Brown County and the State Office of Historic Preservation. The city provides facilities and matching funds that permit the Landmarks Commission to function. In addition to education, the commission studies proposals and makes recommendations to Aberdeen city planning and zoning officials on historic properties. Recently, the commission reviewed a proposal for the restoration of the Minneapolis & St. Louis Railroad Depot.