White Bear Town Hall Historical Markers
The prior research of the history of White Bear Township and the thematic organization was the basis for drafting historical markers to depict portions of that history. This project provided funds for the design, production, and installation of a series of historical markers allowing residents and visitors to better understand and connect to the history of White Bear Township. The themes of the five markers are the landscape of White Bear Township, the first inhabitants, the forming and changes of the government, land use over the centuries, and local significance. The historical markers are installed along the sidewalk on the north side of the Town Hall. The sidewalk is adjacent to a heavily used soccer field and the upper parking lot for the overall park complex. Historical markers at this location will draw significant attention to the building and the story of White Bear Township. The markers will be placed along a new walkway that provides ADA-compliant access to the building.
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$4,500,000 the first year and $6,500,000 the second year are for history programs and projects operated or conducted by or through local, county, regional, or other historical or cultural organizations or for activities to preserve significant historic and cultural resources. Funds are to be distributed through a competitive grant process. The Minnesota Historical Society must administer these funds using established grant mechanisms, with assistance from the advisory committee created under Laws 2009, chapter 172, article 4, section 2, subdivision 4, paragraph (b), item (ii).
Available upon request. grants@mnhs.org
Short Term:
The historical marker project will increase awareness and discussion of thematic topics related to White Bear Township history.
The markers were unveiled during a public ribbon cutting ceremony during a township festival that attracted approximately 2,000 people. Publicity around the event was strong and the ribbon cutting was celebrated as a highlight of the event drawing a lot of attention.
Intermediate Term:
Access to the story of White Bear Township will continue to grow.
They have been well received by visitors at both large scale township specific events and through feedback from people using the park at other times, not specifically for the purpose of learning about the history, but who have chosen to send or provide feedback after viewing the markers on their own.
Long Term:
The history of White Bear Township will be shared for generations to come, cultivating an interest in other veins of the story.
The historical markers will share the story of White Bear Township for many years. They will serve as an introduction to the general story and provide a point from which people may branch out and develop other areas of the larger story.
Available upon request, grants@mnhs.org