GOOD NEWS for Bay View!
Bay View Historical Society has received a development grant from Wisconsin Humanities Council for the services of John Gurda, our Bay View historian, to assist in designing the collaboration with Fernwood Montessori School, Milwaukee Public Museum, UW-Milwaukee and BVHS that will inspire on-going community building events.
The purpose of the collaboration is to create a stronger sense of belonging in the Bay View community. As society changes, families move, and the economy challenges the stability of neighborhoods, BVHS knows that working together for the good of everyone will build relationships, offer support, and create resources that are vital for growth, connection and future development. The community building project will offer students, staff, families, businesses, neighbors, historical society members and elders in Bay View time to learn and participate together. We continue to encourage a sense of community by conserving, celebrating and sharing Bay View’s rich heritage.
School and community activities will focus on:
- studying the history of early settlers like Beulah Brinton,
- creating digital archives of relevant documents,
- investigations of what creates community,
- use of literature and interviews to gain human perspectives, and
- student projects that showcase why community is a valuable and important resource.
Public programs exhibiting student projects will be scheduled at the Milwaukee Public Museum, Bay View Historical Society and Fernwood Montessori School for the greater community. Members of BVHS will serve as resources to students as well as promoters of the, public events that will be planned.
John Gurda will also serve as a guide for student projects. While students begin to explore the Bay View area, John will help to focus their questions and interests with suggestions for literature, people to interview, or organizations that will help to support further exploration of the community.
Thanks to all who are helping to initiate our community enrichment project with more students and families!
For more information contact Susan Ballje at 414-481-3369.
