Saturday, December 17, 2011

Revisiting the Heritage of Wisconsin

Every now and then we need to step back and look at where we have been to see where we are going. I am writing this from the Cothern Cabin, built in 1835. While not original to the location, it sits among a collection of historical dwellings that harken back to their builder's roots in Cornwall. Mineral Point is a town unique to Wisconsin-a place trapped a bit in time-retaining a heritage that we should not forget. It is a heritage of hard working immigrant families that wanted a better life not only for themselves, but for their children as well. They recognized that education was a pathway to this reality and were willing to make the sacrifices necessary to see that happen. They took pride it what they built, hoping to leave behind a legacy in their community that would stand the test of time. Many have forgotten the importance of this today. Too many focus on financial gain and power not realizing that they are and have always been transitory in nature. It is time we take pride in our communities, work with our neighbors, and protect the legacy that those who came before us. It is time to look to the past to move Wisconsin forward.