HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem 6 - River FallsAtmi") fiRM.",
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,4cknowleagements
Mayor azCity CouncilMem6eys
Mayor Eric Amundsen, Council Members: Wayne Beebe,
Tom Caflisch, Tom Parent, Carol Robinson,
Emily Ronning, Hal Watson, Mike Woolsey
.Piston? Qftsemvatiom Commission
Audrey Alton, Rick Burgsteiner, Ursula Peterson,
Erin Tomlinson, Susan Ginter -Watson,
Councilor Mike Woolsey, Jeanne Zirbel
Qgl-qect Plammeys
Mariano "Buddy" Lucero, Planning Director
Dena Mleziva, Planner
Robin Schrank, Manuscript Typing
RIVE 'FALLS
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Preservation
Commission
C i t y o f R i v e r F a 1 1 s
Special thanks are extended to Noreen Rossa, Stacey Bostwick and
Council Members Harris Kittelson and Richard Vogel
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Scopeand Purpose..............................................................................................................1-1
PlanBoundaries..................................................................................................................1-1
PlanningProcess.................................................................................................................1-3
MissionStatement...............................................................................................................1-4
Vision..................................................................................................................................1-4
PlanThemes........................................................................................................................1-4
II.
"90071'C11" DEVECOPMEAT
Evolution of Land Use Pattern ............................................................................................2-1
ArchitecturalStyles.............................................................................................................2-3
Main Street Commercial Architecture................................................................................2-3
Residential Architecture......................................................................................................2-4
BuildingConditions............................................................................................................2-9
Designated Buildings and Sites..........................................................................................2-10
III.
.77SI0,!kIC WSO VW'
GuidingPolicies..................................................................................................................3-1
Architectural and Historic Inventory..................................................................................3-1
Designating Historic Properties..........................................................................................3-2
Important Historic Buildings and Sites...............................................................................3-3
S.O.S. — Save Our Smokestack Project...............................................................................3-5
Certified Local Government Status.....................................................................................3-6
Implementation...................................................................................................................3-7
ImplementingPolicies.........................................................................................................3-7
IV
JVXJT0!k-AC WUMEA 2AZ DESfjC jCVAD CENWS
Purposeand Intent...............................................................................................................4-1
Definitions...........................................................................................................................4-1
Boundaries..........................................................................................................................4-2
Powerand Duties................................................................................................................4-2
DesignGuidelines...............................................................................................................4-2
y
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GuidingPolicies..................................................................................................................5-1
State and Federal Regulations.............................................................................................5-1
CityRegulations..................................................................................................................5-2
Consistency.........................................................................................................................5-2
Supportfor Consistency......................................................................................................5-3
Processfor Amendments....................................................................................................5-3
AnnualReport.....................................................................................................................5-3
Implementation Policies......................................................................................................5-3
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APlans, Reports, and Studies.................................................................................................A-1
B City of River Falls Historic Preservation Ordinance, Adopted 11/28/95 ...........................A-2
C Growth of City from 1953 to 2003.....................................................................................A-6
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1
General Location Map........................................................................................................1-1
2
Future Land Use.................................................................................................................1-2
3
Bird's-eye View of River Falls, 1880.................................................................................2-1
4
Italianate Architecture.........................................................................................................2-5
5
Queen Anne Architecture....................................................................................................2-5
6
Illustration, Downtown Design Plan...................................................................................2-9
7
Architectural and Historic Inventory..................................................................................3-1
8
1907-08 City of River Fall Plat...........................................................................................3-2
9
West Side Residential Historic District..............................................................................3-3
10
Fourth Street Residential Historic District..........................................................................3-4
11
South Main Street Commercial Historic District................................................................3-4
12
Illustration, Architectural Features.....................................................................................4-1
13
River Falls Main Street Sesquicentennial Logo..................................................................5-4
1
South Hall, UW-RF Campus..............................................................................................1-3
2
City of River Falls Central Business District in 1886.........................................................1-4
3
Oliver S. Powell Residence, 204 N. 41h Street.....................................................................1-5
4
Andrew W. Lund Residence, 127 S. 4th Street...................................................................1-5
5
State Normal School Building, 1874..................................................................................2-2
6
River Falls Railroad, 1878..................................................................................................2-2
7
Southwest Side of Main Street, 1872..................................................................................2-2
8
Vernacular Commercial Architecture, 109-111 N. Main Street.........................................2-3
9
Vernacular Commercial Buildings, 100 Block S. Main Street...........................................2-3
10
Hotel Gladstone, (1886) 123 S. Main Street.......................................................................2-4
11
Brick House by G.T. Smith, 210 N. Fremont Street...........................................................2-4
12
Greek Revival Dwelling, 107 S. 3rd Street..........................................................................2-5
13
Colonial Revival Dwelling, 106 N. 6th Street.....................................................................2-6
14
Craftsman Style Dwelling, 521 E. Maple Street.................................................................2-6
15
American Foursquare Dwelling, 215 N. 4th Street..............................................................2-6
16
Bungalow Style Dwelling, 222 N. 7th Street......................................................................2-7
17
Front Gable Style Dwelling, 423 E. Pine Street.................................................................2-7
18
Side Gable Style Dwelling, 408 N. 4th Street.....................................................................2-8
19
Gabled Ell Style Dwelling, 321 Lewis Street.....................................................................2-8
20
One -Story Cubed Style Dwelling, 122 N. 3rd Street..........................................................2-8
21
Poorly Maintained Limestone.............................................................................................2-9
22
Sand Blasted Brick..............................................................................................................2-9
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23
Hathorn Cottage..................................................................................................................2-10
24
State Normal School (present South Hall) UW-RF Campus..............................................2-10
25
North Hall, UW-RF Campus..............................................................................................2-10
26
Governor Warren P. Knowles Birthplace, 127 N. 4th Street...............................................3-3
27
19th Century Lime Kilns......................................................................................................3-4
28
Tremont Hotel, 102 N. Main Street....................................................................................3-5
29
Junction Mills Smokestack, 401 S. Winter Street...............................................................3-5
30
Engraved Bricks for S.O.S. Fundraising Project................................................................3-6
31
Statue in Foster Cemetery...................................................................................................3-9
32
Sarah Tozer House, 215 N. 4th Street.................................................................................4-3
33
Restoration to Brick, 103-107 E. Elm Street......................................................................4-4
34
Lillian Currier House, 223 N. 4th Street..............................................................................4-5
35
Dave Deiss House, 326 N. 3rd Street.................................................................................4-6
36
W.P. Knowles House, 127 N. 4th Street.............................................................................4-6
37
City of River Falls Main Street, 1891.................................................................................5-2
38
Swinging Bridge in Glen Park............................................................................................5-3
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0!YYW4EE,#S, pursuant to Chapter 17.76 of the City of River Falls Municipal Code "it is declared a
matter of public policy that the protection, enhancement, preparation, and use of improvements
or sites of special character or special architectural, archeological, or historic interest or value is
a public necessity and is required in the interest of the health, prosperity, safety, and welfare of
the people;" and
03IY '4EE,#5, the City Planning Department and the Historic Preservation Commission have
undertaken the necessary planning process to prepare the City of River Falls Historic
Preservation Plan; and
03Y 4EE,#S, the City and the Historic Preservation Commission is committed to becoming a
designated Certified Local Government by Wisconsin's State Historic Preservation Office and in
accordance with the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and amended in 1980; and
03IY '4EE,#5, adoption of the City of River Falls Historic Preservation Plan will help meet the
criteria for a Certified Local Government status; and
03IYW4EE,U on March 12, 2003 the Historic Preservation Commission held a public hearing for
the Historic Preservation Plan; and
035�W4EEXS, through public meetings and public review, information was provided, analyzed, and
considered for inclusion in the plan; and
035�W4EE,#S, the plan provides a mission statement and vision, existing character and
development, historic resources, design guidelines, and identifies policies and procedures for
implementation and to make amendments.
ADW, 0ff4M'F04M E174Q S'OGZ 07that the Mayor and Council of the City of River Falls,
having considered the input provided by the Historic Preservation Commission, City staff, and
comments heard at a public meeting, hereby adopt the City nfPj(rer Fallr.7lirtoAi7 arserwtinu
V17S JfPfQ,#' 0T,#AVL 2003
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Historic preservation depends on the
involvement and commitment of the local
citizens, government and preservationists.
The City of River Falls realizes that unless
strong and active preservation programs are
established, local historic and prehistoric
cultural resources will be lost, either through
neglect, poor planning, inappropriate
remodeling, or demolition. The City of River
Falls Historic Preservation Plan serves as
the community statement of direction for
future conservation and preservation of the
City's archaeological, cultural, and historic
resources.
ScapeandrlATore
This comprehensive, long-term Historic
Preservation Plan concerns the development,
conservation, and preservation of historic
resources in River Falls. It provides
guidance for development proposals, capital
improvements, and implementing policies to
appropriately manage the City's heritage
resources and integrating them into urban
design and development strategies. This
plan will:
■ Outline a vision, through the mission
statement and themes that reflect the
aspirations of the community;
■ Establish a basis for judging whether
development proposals and public
projects are consistent with the plan;
■ Provide information that will enhance
the character of the community, preserve
economic and critical historical
resources, and minimize loss either
through neglect, poor planning,
inappropriate remodeling, or demolition;
■ Provide the basis for establishing and
setting priorities and for implementing
programs and regulations;
■ Provide the basis for education and
nurturing a vital community and
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reaching out to all segments of the
population; and
■ Provide a plan that meets the
requirements of the Wisconsin State
Statutes for Comprehensive Plan for
historical and cultural resources.
This plan represents the goals and desires of
the community and should be recognized as
the community's public statement about the
future.
To ensure that community actions are
consistent, regular ongoing use of the plan is
essential. Because this plan is both general
and long-term, there will be circumstances
and instances when detailed studies are
necessary to implement it.
P16n Bnundarier
The boundary of the River Falls Historic
Preservation Plan is the municipal boundary
of the City of River Falls. Figure 1 depicts
the regional location and Figure 2 depicts
the Future Land Use Area (Sewer Service
Area Boundary) and the City of River Falls
boundary. Information may be gathered
within the Future Land Use Area and
provided for development proposals and
capital improvement projects.
Genera11 location with
states, Counties, Cities,
a0d Interstate
Figure 9: Dozvntovn River Falls is just 30 ✓piles east of St Paul, MN.
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Commercial, institutional & Industria➢ Residential Density Park &a Conservancy
ap
Aegronml Cammerdal Camd-.+eu1.ic Parks ��� Raced Proposed Co..eml Srm,a pram
M IContmunity Commercial Very Conservancy ' R dE sHvg, p 14%k+hb h.-od CenLcr Proposed
O Ca- T t C and r R-p-szd ' ""
taw+�.. a, Ropa dl c..seeti�mn
Land Status
1 !f, Pum I I atitndaval ,r�� 5e $e 'c Sounday LaCat
8ustness Park Aledi +ne "r.:�s� Lund fllsc RcePosed �y ., on
rilueunpal Eo ,dory Rap- ed O,.'cr/Gndcrpmss
]ndustdal V High trot, f� Locat ns
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01-eservation Plan
Photo 1: South Hall located on the University of
Wisconsin River Falls campus was constructed in
1898 and listed on the National Register of Historic
places in 1976
QDfannmglniocerr
The planning process included development
of the Historic Preservation Plan and an
implementation program. This plan al s o
outlines the need for more detailed planning
for historic properties, design guidelines,
streets, land use designations, and other
special plans.
Annual Report. An annual report will
provide an overview of the status of this
Historic Preservation Plan and its
implementation programs. The annual report
shall be prepared jointly by the City of River
Falls staff and the Historic Preservation
Commission (HPC) and submitted to City
Council. The report shall include a
summary of all completed projects and
amendments adopted during the proceeding
years, an outline of upcoming projects and
preservation issues to be addressed in the
coming years, along with a work program
and budgets.
Amendments. This plan is intended to be a
living plan and, as such, will be subject to
more site -specific and comprehensive
amendments over time. Amendments also
may be needed to conform to state and
federal laws passed since adoption, and to
eliminate and modify policies that may have
become obsolete or unrealistic because of
changed conditions (such as completion of a
task or project, development on a site, or
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adoption of an ordinance). This plan may
also incorporate by reference other detailed
studies and plans that may be prepared. To
be kept current this plan should be flexible
enough to respond to changing conditions
and can be amended as needed to be kept
current. Amendments to this plan should be
limited to once a year, although each
amendment may include more than one
change.
Five -Year Review. The City will undertake
a comprehensive review of this plan every
five years after adoption. The five-year
review will include:
■ Comprehensive evaluation of the plan
policies;
■ Analysis of the effectiveness of the
implementation programs and the
strategies initiated to carry out the plan;
and
■ Systematic assessment of the historic
resource, design guidelines and
standards and resource management
programs.
The focus of the five-year review will be to
determine how well this plan has performed
and whether policies related to conservation
and preservation have been effective. A
report summarizing staff's findings will be
presented to the HPC and then circulated for
public comment. The HPC at a regularly
scheduled public hearing will hear public
review and comment on the five-year
review. The HPC will study the five-year
review and make recommendations to the
City Council.
Background Studies. A comprehensive
analysis of existing conditions and major
planning options was performed prior to the
preparation of this plan. Majordocuments
that have been reviewed are included in
Appendix A.
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Public Participation. Throughout the
preparation of this plan, there has been an
ongoing commitment to active public
outreach and participation. The plan
policies are being shaped by comments
made in public meetings and adopted plans.
The initial draft of the plan was developed
by the HPC by identifying key issues from
past public meetings and integrating those
ideas with commission goals.
Photo 2: City of River Falls Central Business
District in the 1886.
. rylz i'. rron Statement
The mission of the City of River Falls
Historic Preservation Commission is to
promote and protect the historic resources
within the City of River Falls and to educate
the community about its cultural heritage.
virron
The community will recognize that the
preservation of historic sites and structures
offers residents and visitors a special sense
of place and a feeling of continuity and
association with the past. As the community
plans for growth, preserving historic places
provides aesthetic, educational and
economic benefits that will continue to
define and improve our quality of life.
O&n I%aemer
This plan reflects themes that track with the
results of public participation and adopted
plans and lays the foundation for guiding
and implementing policies. Guiding policies
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describe the ways or methods that the
themes can be achieved. These themes are
consistent with existing plans such as: Sewer
Service Area Plan and Downtown Plan. The
themes are followed by discussion in italics.
For the purpose of this section, the themes
are equally weighted. However, the themes
may be prioritized and amended, either with
specific cases or as a matter of general
policy.
1. Quality of Life. Enhance the quality of
life of the community and ensure provision
of community services for residents.
This plan seeks to promote the interests of
the community -at -large over private
interests. Tools are provided for the public
to be meaningfully involved in ongoing
planning and decision -making.
2. Character. Maintain and respect the
City of River Falls' unique personality,
sense of place and character.
Residents have unequivocally stated that
new growth should not erode the qualities
that contributed to the community's unique
characteristics. This plan provides for
conservation and preservation of the City's
historic resources.
3. Urban Form. Promote a compact urban
form that encourages sensitive/compatible
infill development.
The physical layout of older and established
neighborhoods was viewed as critical
elements in planning for future growth and
sustainable development. Implementing
policies should be established to provide a
means to manage and maintain critical
elements and historic resources within these
neighborhoods for future generations.
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Street built 1869.
4. Community -Oriented Development.
Orient new development to the community;
foster public life, vitality and community
spirit.
New development shall be guided by
established neighborhoods, to form urban
contexts for pedestrians, and to promote
active street and outdoor life. Plans shall
call for detailed urban design guidelines
that shall preserve existing neighborhoods
and prevent neighborhoods from being
isolated from each other and maintain a
continuum of urban fabric, particularly
regarding public access,
vehicular/pedestrian circulation and historic
structures. Parks, conservation areas, open
space, and neighborhood services shall be
located within neighborhoods.
5. Regional Perspective. Maintain a
regional growth management and historic
preservation perspective, and work with
other private and governmental entities
toward that goal.
The future of the City and the surrounding
areas are intertwined. This plan encourages
the City and other local Towns and Counties
as well as state and federal agencies to work
together on policies that are mutually
supportive and to maintain consistent
standards in the areas surrounding the City.
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6. Review Process. Streamline the
planning and development review process.
Greater certainty in the planning process
will benefit residents and project proponents
and permit long-range capital improvement
planning. This plan calls for preparation of
thresholds and procedures for detailed
analyses. Neighborhood participation is
essential at all planning levels, and the
planning process outlined in this plan calls
for the City's Geographic Information
System (GIS) database to be used in
conducting project level analysis and
design.
7. Implementation. Ensure consistency
between this plan and implementing
ordinances (including zoning) and a Capital
Improvement Program (CIP).
To help implement this plan detailed studies,
plans, and ordinances will need to be
prepared, reviewed and approved. With this
plan, the community is committing itself to
consistency between existing plans,
implementation programs, and regulations
including zoning, subdivision regulations,
and the CIP.
Street built 1908.
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"We make ourAuild'ings and
our 6uifdtngs mafe us'
-Winston Cliuycliiii
II
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DEVEZOPMEAI
The City of River Falls is a picturesque
community located in southern St. Croix and
northern Pierce counties in west -central
Wisconsin. There are many features to be
protected, enhanced, and enjoyed.
Surrounding the City are many scenic vistas
of bluffs, coulees, and valleys, and the
Kinnickinnic River (a Class 1 Trout
Stream). There are commercial, residential
and institutional buildings constructed
before 1940 that have historic significance
and an architectural style in need of
restoration and preservation.
Four Towns border the City, Troy to the
north, Kinnickinnic to the east, River Falls
to the south, and Clifton to the west. The
City and adjacent towns are undergoing
rapid growth and development. The
population trends of River Falls and the
surrounding towns and counties have taken a
consistent upward turn. Over fifty percent
of the City's residents commute to the
Minneapolis/St. Paul area. The growth of
the area's population and employment can
be attributed to several factors: proximity to
the Minneapolis/St. Paul metropolitan area,
an aggressive economic development
program, a high quality of life, the location
of a university and a technical college,
proximity to transportation infrastructure,
natural and historic resources.
This chapter provides a context for the
existing historic character and development
conditions of the City of River Falls.
!'volution nftlaeGand Vse Pattem
Prior to the early settlement of River Falls
and the surrounding region, Chippewa and
Sioux Native Americans occupied the area.
In 1837, the Chippewa ceded to the United
States all of the land east of the Mississippi
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River extending north to the source of the
Mississippi River. Despite the opening of
the territory, settlement was rather slow until
the mid -nineteenth century. St. Croix
County was created in 1840, and in 1853,
the State of Wisconsin divided it into three
separate counties, each with its own seat.
The southern section became Pierce County,
the northern third was named Polk County,
and the mid part remained St. Croix County.
The plat of River Falls straddles the
boundary between St. Croix County and
Pierce County. The city is situated along the
Kinnickinnic River, which flows west into
Lake St. Croix. The Kinnickinnic River and
its branch, the South Fork, played a
significant role in the settlement and growth
of the community.
At the time of initial settlement,
approximately three -fourths of the Town of
Greenwood (later River Falls Town) in
which River Falls is located was covered by
prairie with black sandy loam soil. The
remaining land was covered with timber.
Some 2000 acres of land were under
cultivation by 1856, and the prospects for
agriculture were considered to be "first-
rate." To the north, the Town of Troy was
organized in 1851 and was first called
Malone by the Perrine brothers who were
settlers from New York.
Figure 3: Bird's-eye view of River Falls, Wisconsin
looking northeast, 1880.
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Arriving in the fall of 1848, Joel Foster was
the first white settler in what would soon be
officially known as River Falls. Duncan
McGregor and his wife, and Nathaniel and
Oliver Powell followed him. The Powell
brothers built a sawmill in 1852, constructed
the first frame dwelling, which later became
a store, and in 1854, laid out a 60-acreplat
on the east side of the river for the Village of
Kinnickinnic.
Early development was focused along the
river. The Powell's built their sawmill on
the east bank, south of where the first
flourmill would be constructed in 1854. The
population increased from 312 in 1860 to
1,191 in 1870, and by the late 1870's four
more flourmills had been constructed, which
collectively produced 150,000 barrels of
flour annually.
Although the original plat of River Falls is
tilted so that Main Street and other streets
are oriented to the Kinnickinnic River, the
plat conforms to a common midwestern
form consisting of square blocks set on a
grid of streets intersecting at right angles.
Later plats followed survey lines and
compass points thereby creating the familiar
rectilinear grid.
Photo S: State Normal School Building 1874.
Contributing to the growth and development
of the village was the construction of the
fourth State Normal School built in 1874,
and the arrival of the Hudson and River
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RIVER FALLS
Falls Railroad, which opened in 1878. The
railroad significantly impacted development
and growth in the River Falls area.
Photo 6: The railroad started service in River Falls
in October 1878.
By the late 1870s, River Falls had emerged
as a local, if not regional, trade center. In
spite of these developments, the City's early
period of rapid growth ended, and the
population expanded only 26% from 1870 to
1880 (1,191 to 1,499). Over the next
decade, however, the number of residents
increased by 975 (65%).
River Falls was incorporated in April of
1885 as a City by action of the State
Legislature. Its charter outlined the City
boundaries, governmental structure, election
procedure, City officers and duties, and
Common Council powers. In January 1922,
on the basis of the Charter, the City of River
Falls was declared a 41h Class City by the
State of Wisconsin.
Photo 7: Southwest side of MainStreet
approximately 1872.
Over the past one hundred years the
strongest growth has occurred after 1940.
With a present population of approximately
13,000 in 2003, growth has been fairly
compact in form.
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.AnnaitecturaiSty!e.s
Maim Street CnmmercyWWAn itecture
Between 1875 and 1878, six fires destroyed
a major portion (approximately 30
buildings) of the central business district
now known as Main Street, and forced
owners to rebuild, often with limestone,
brick, or a combination of both. In May of
1886, the City Council passed the Fire
Limits Ordinance, which required that any
new construction within the downtown be of
fireproof brick or stone.
Like many other small midwestern towns,
the early commercial buildings in the City of
River Falls were constructed of wood that
was produced by local sawmills. The one
and two-story buildings consisted of
sheathing with clapboards that dominated
Main Street from the 1850's through the
1860's. The first two masonry (limestone)
structures were not constructed until 1868.
This was the Burhyte Brothers Dry Goods
and the Sanderson Building located at 101
and 103 N. Main Street.
Photo 8: This represents an example of Vernacular
commercial architecture. The building, at 109-111 N.
MainStreet, had been stuccoed over by 1962.
Vernacular commercial style architecture
can be seen throughout the Main Street.
Vernacular commercial architecture applies
to simply designed one and two-story
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RIVER FALLS
commercial buildings of the late 191h and
early 201h centuries. Unaltered ground floors
have large retail windows. The second story
is characterized by simple window openings
and are used for residential or business
purposes. Doors to provide access to ground
story shops or upper floors are simple and
typically have a single window above.
Decoration is usually sparse and may consist
of a cornice with decorative treatments such
a brick corbelling, wood moldings, or metal
friezes with finials or corbels at the end. A
simple cornice or I-beam often divides the
storefront and upper floors.
Photo 9: Vernacular commercial buildings with
decorative brick, 100 block of S. MainStreet.
Examples of simple vernacular brick
buildings are the Davis Drug Building, built
in 1878 at 104 S. Main Street, and the A.
Drake Building erected in 1891 at 128 N.
Main Street. Here, corbel brick cornices,
paneled friezes, and unadorned lintels above
the windows are the only decorations.
More elaborate decorative brickwork is
displayed in the six late 191h century
vernacular commercial buildings in the
south Main commercial district. These
buildings constructed between 1872 and
1882 are one and two-story buildings with
paneled friezes, corbelling at the cornices,
and large storefronts with transoms. Subtle
and Italianate influences include extravagant
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exaggerated brick cornices, segmental arch
windows, and paneled friezes.
The oldest commercial building in the City
of River Falls, Burhyte Brothers Dry Goods
located at 101 N. Main Street, was
constructed in 1868. It displays on its south
side an attractive, course limestone wall
pierced by round arched windows with hood
moldings. The facade has undergone several
changes over the years.
Italianate commercial style architecture was
common throughout Wisconsin between
1850 and 1880. This style of architecture is
characterized on the shop front by broad,
expanses of plate -glass windows, framed by
columns with capitals and cornices. Upper -
store windows are generally long and
narrow and may be headed by round arches
and projected keystones and richly profiled
molding. The eave is crowned by a
projecting cornice, most often made of metal
with medallions or brackets. Building
corners may have quoins or pilaster in brick
or stone. A majority of the commercial
architecture in the City of River Falls from
the late 191h century reflected the Italianate
style, but because of the alterations
(particularly stucco applications) most
stylistic buildings are completely obscured
from these building facades.
of the Hotel
S. MainStreet
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The best example of Italianate commercial
architecture is the three-story Gladstone
Hotel built in 1886, located at 121-123 S.
Main Street. It features corner pilasters,
segmental arched windows with keystone,
stone built cornices, and an ornate bracketed
metal cornice. Other examples are the J.H.
Lord Building, built in 1881 and located at
101 S. Main Street, and the Tremont Hotel,
built in 1878 and located at 102 N. Main
Street.
enti r1,A-nQecture
The 1991 intensive survey of the City of
River Falls identified approximately 500
residential buildings constructed before
1940. While many of the major
architectural styles common during the mid
19th to early 20th centuries were represented,
nearly three -fourths (70 percent) of the
properties can be classified as vernacular,
and include the following ubiquitous forms:
front gable, side gable, gable ell, two-story
cube, one-story cube, and cross gable.
Generally, the larger and more elaborate
dwellings were built in the late 19th and
early 20th centuries, located east of the Main
Street business district around 4fh Street.
Other fashionable houses were constructed
on the west side of the Kinnickinnic River,
although they are few in number and
scattered on several streets.
Photo 11: One of several brick houses built by G.T.
Snuth, 210 N. FremontStreet.
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The survey indicated that there were only
eleven residences in the City of River Falls
built using brick, either as a veneer or in a
solid brick wall. Four of these are located at
the northeast corner of Fremont and Maple
Streets. Among the other brick dwellings is
one of the oldest known residences in the
City, the Oliver Powell house, located at 204
N. 41h Street, built in 1869. Another is the
Thomas Walker house located at 403 E.
Division Street, a gabled ell eave building
constructed in 1880.
The following is a brief summary of the
variety of architectural style homes in the
City of River Falls.
Street.
Greek Revival - The Greek Revival was
the first national style to have a wide-
ranging impact on architecture in the State
of Wisconsin from 1830 to 1870. The style
is symmetrical, formal, and orderly, and
characterized by porticos and pilasters that
reflect the three Grecian orders: Doric,
Ionic, and Corinthian. Gable roofs are low
pitched, and cornices are emphasized with
wide moldings. One of the approximately
eleven Greek Revival style dwellings in the
City of River Falls is the Luke Pomeroy
House, built in 1873.
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hip roof�„� wide cornice,.
\ _. � /'with brackets
molded
window caps I/:`
212 windows
bay windows „decorative
porch woodwork
inset
Figure 4: Illustration ofItalianate Architecture.
Italianate — Usually cubic or rectangular in
plan with boxy proportions, the Italianate
style house has distinctive wide eaves
supported by brackets, long and narrow
windows with hoodmolds or pediments, and
a lot pitched hipped roof often surmounted
by a cupola. In Wisconsin, these
picturesque residences were built in the late
1850's until around 1880. About eight
examples of the Italianate style exist in the
City of River Falls, and several of these
have additions and alterations. Although
missing its front porch and brackets, the
Charles D. Parker House, built in 1870 and
located at 315 E. Maple Street, exhibits the
basic characteristics of Italianate
architecture.
gable roof-,--,,,, fishsc„ole shingles
I dormer
gable roof
2/2 double -hung
bay
inset wooden
panels
corner. boards ""�"' '"'-""
skirting brackets on wrap
paneled door around porch
Figure S: Illustration of Queen Anne Architecture.
Queen Anne - The Queen Anne style was
introduced by British architects in the
1870's and brought to Wisconsin by the
1880's. In America, Queen Anne houses are
executed primarily in balloon frame and
characterized by an asymmetrical, irregular
plan, a variety of surface textures, roofs, and
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wall projections. Patterns of shingles,
millwork, and carved or turned
ornamentation enhance wall and roof
surfaces. Other features included steep
roofs, bay windows, round or polygonal
turrets, and porches. In the City of River
Falls, Queen Anne houses are the most
common of the picturesque residences that
can be clearly identified with a style. A
representation of the Queen Anne style is
the P.W. Ramer House, located at 104 S. 3rd
Street.
Photo 13: A Colonial Revival style dwelling, 106 N.
6th Street.
Colonial Revival — Developed at the turn of
the century and common throughout
Wisconsin from about 1895 to 1940, the
Colonial Revival style was promoted by
architects and builders who were influenced
by the revived interest in American
traditions. They incorporated elements from
Georgian and Federal styles to create a
simple, symmetrical design featuring an
accentuated front door usually centered in
the facade and flanked by double hung sash
windows with multi -pane glazing.
Numerous examples of the Colonial Revival
style are scattered throughout the City of
River Falls. Constructed in 1931, the
Gilbertson House located at 106 N. 6fh Street
is a rather simple interpretation of the style.
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Photo 14: A Craftsman style dwelling, 521 E. Maple
Street.
Craftsman — The American Craftsman style
was derived from the 19th century English
Arts and Crafts movement, and became
popular in America from about 1900 to
1930. Appearing like an oversized
bungalow, Wisconsin Craftsman houses are
usually two -and -one-half stories and built of
stucco, brick, or stone, with contrasting
bands of wood. They characteristically have
broad gable or hipped roofs, usually with
one or two large front dormers, decorative
rafters, and prominent chimneys. About six
Craftsman houses appear in the City of
River Falls, with the style nicely represented
by the Leonard Johnson House located at
521 E. Maple Street.
Photo 15: American Foursquare style dwelling, 215
N. 4th Street.
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American Foursquare — Popularized
during the early 20'h century by mail-order
catalogues and speculative builders,
proponents of the American Foursquare
style sought to simplify domestic
architecture by creating a box -like building
usually without overt stylistic references.
Typically two stories high, the Foursquare
has a hipped roof, widely overhanging
eaves, central dormers, and a one-story
porch spanning the full length of the facade.
About twelve examples of American
Foursquare dwellings are in the City of
River Falls. Among these is the Sarah Tozer
House at 215 N. 41h Street.
the Nicholsen House.
Bungalow — The term "bungalow" is
derived from the East Asian word "bangla"
which, in Bengal, refers to a low house with
porches surrounding it. Constructed
between about 1910 and 1940, Bungalows
are usually small, modest houses with
simple horizontal lines, wide projecting
gable roofs and at least one large porch.
They were most often sheathed in wood
siding, but sometimes had stucco or some
other material as a veneer. In the City of
River Falls there are approximately eighteen
Bungalows. The Nicholsen House at 222 N.
71h Street, which has wood single siding,
wide projecting gables with bracketed eaves,
and an enclosed entry porch is a good
representation of a Bungalow.
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Vernacular Forms - Because they lack
particular stylistic details and are relatively
plain, vernacular houses are grouped based
on exterior massing, roof shape, and number
of stories. While the City of River Falls has
a number of dwellings designed according to
national stylistic trends, a majority of houses
are best described as vernacular. These
vernacular forms include the front gable,
side gable, gabled ell, two-story cube, one-
story cube, and cross gable (see Photos 8
and 9 for examples of styles).
Photo 17: A Front Gable style dwelling, 423 E. Pine
Hermann Mueller House.
Front Gable — The Front Gable form may
be linked to the Greek Revival style. It is
characterized by a rectangular plan and
gable roof with the facade in the gable end
of the building. The main entrance is either
centered or offset and located in the gable,
usually toward the street. The entry is often
sheltered by a small entry porch or a full-
length porch that is usually hipped.
Approximately 69 houses (14%) in the City
of River Falls are identified with this Front
Gable form. One example is the Herman
Mueller House at 420 E. Pine Street.
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Street.
Side Gable — Slightly more common than
the Front Gable houses, approximately
eighty Side Gable dwellings exist in the City
of River Falls. The Side Gable is one of the
earliest and most common house forms,
being built in Wisconsin between 1840 and
1940. It is identified by a rectangular plan,
gable roof, and gables oriented
perpendicular to the street with the facade in
the long wall parallel with the street.
Varying from one to three stories in height,
the one -and -one-half story is one of the most
common. Like the other vernacular forms,
the Side Gable house has little or no
ornamentation except perhaps on the
ubiquitous front porch. A good example of
the Side Gable form is the Ensign House at
408 N. 41h Street.
Photo 19: A Gabled Ell style dwelling, 321 Lewis
Street.
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Gabled Ell — Nearly one -quarter (117) of
the form of houses existing in the City are
the Gable Ell form. In plan, these dwellings
appear most often as an "L" or "T" and
frequently have wings attached to the rear.
Entry to the Gabled Ell form is always
through the porch at the ell, although the
door may be located in either or both walls.
Either shed or hipped roof porches are
attached at the ell created by the junction of
the two wings, sometimes broken by a
pediment. Brackets, turned posts, and a
balustrade may decorate the porch, which is
often the most visually interesting feature on
an otherwise unadorned building. A good
example is the Alice Hardy House at 321
Lewis Street.
Photo 20: A One -Story Cube style dwelling, 122 N.
3""Street.
One -Story and Two-S t o r y C u b e—
Approximately fourteen One -Story and
seven Two -Story Cube vernacular houses
exist in the City. A distinguishing feature of
these house forms is their box -like massing
and hipped roof. Fenestration is typically
symmetrical, usually with a central door
flanked by windows.
Cross Gable — The Cross Gable form is
usually square in plan, two stories high, with
a Cross Gable or gambrel roof. Appearing
late in the 191h century and continuing until
about 1930, the Cross Gable house form has
two intersecting roofs whose ridges form a
cruciform. About seven examples of this
form exist in the City of River Falls.
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Photo 21: Poorly maintained limestone
creates restoration problems.
Build 9Cnndatk r
The City of River Falls is in a unique
position regarding the condition of its
historic buildings. Generally, the
commercial buildings are in fair or poor
condition. The residential buildings are in
good condition. Located at the edge of the
Twin Cities metropolitan area, a shortage of
housing, a four -lane highway and small
town character all make River Falls a highly
desirable place to live. This trendhas
resulted in reinvestment in many aging,
historic homes.
The historic commercial buildings face
many challenges in River Falls. Lack of
investments, facade coverings, and invasive
restoration techniques have altered many of
the historic buildings in the City's original
business district. Aluminum siding along
with windows being closed up with bricks
are some of the facade alterations that have
occurred over the years. When restoration
activities were pursued, sandblasting
removed the glazing resulting in bricks that
are now soft and pitted. A number of
buildings have potential to be restored close
to their original character. Facade
restoration is possible throughout
downtown, but challenges exist to some
extent on all buildings.
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RIVER FALLS
Photo 22: Sand blasted brick creates
restoration problems for some downtown
commercial buildings.
In 1989, the Main Street Project formed,
with help from the State Main Street Project,
1991 Architectural and Historical Inventory,
Planting and Managing Program, and the
Urban Forest Program. The Main Street
Project is a volunteer board emphasizing
physical improvements such as restorations
of downtown historic buildings. The Main
Street Project coordinates events like music
in the park and Thanksgiving River Dazzle
along with matching grants for facade
rehabilitation and signage. The Main Street
Project has and will continue to play an
important role in the City of River Falls
downtown and restorations of its' historic
buildings.
Figure 6: Illustration f om the City ofRiver Falls
Downtown Design Planfor the redevelopment of Eln2
andMain looking west.
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<Der wtedjV rto&BujWnysandSiter
The Junction Mill smokestack (see photo
29) located at 401 S. Winter Street was
designated a local historic structure on June
7, 2001 by the City of River Falls upon
recommendation of the Historic Preservation
Commission. The smokestack is one of the
last remaining structures tied to the milling
industry that was key in the development of
the City. Built in 1879, the Junction Mill
smokestack stands prominently on the banks
of the Kinnickinnic River and as a symbol of
the City's former industry.
a local historic structure in 1996" once
located on the UW-RF campus at the south
end of 4'hStreet.
The Hathorn Cottage originally located on
the campus of the University of Wisconsin —
River Falls was designated on April 11,
1996. A certificate of appropriateness was
issued to allow its removal off the university
campus and onto a parcel in Kinnckinnic
Township. Moving the house provided an
opportunity for the house to be restored and
kept in the local area. In May of 2002 the
HPC designated the Freeman House, built in
1903 and located at 220 N. 3rd Street.
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RIVER FALLS
Photo 24: The State Normal School
Building now the present South Hall is the
oldest building on the UW-RF Campus.
Built 1897-98 by the renowned Wisconsin
architect William Waters, the cupola and
smoke stacks were removed over the years.
Two other buildings have historic
designation. North and South Halls, located
on the University of Wisconsin River Falls
campus, are on the National Register of
Historic Places. South Hall was the original
Normal School building constructed in 1898
on the site of an earlier building that was
destroyed by fire. North Hall was
constructed in 1914 with an addition in
1927. South Hall was put on the National
Register in 1976 and North Hall in 1986.
The national list recognizes the Romanesque
Revival architecture of South Hall and the
important role the University has played in
the development of the City of River Falls.
Photo 25: North Hall on the UW-RF campus was
constructed in 1914 with an addition in 1927.
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. 4 community withapast
is a community wkf a future "
III
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III _*7SIOIZIC 40UOVROE
Throughout the public meeting and
comment period for the development of the
existing City Comprehensive Plan, the
Sewer Service Area Plan, the Downtown
Plan, and the preparation of this document,
the City of River Falls' historic resources
were cited as some of the planning area's
major assets. These resources reflect River
Falls archeological, historic, and cultural
heritage. The physical layout of older,
established neighborhoods and Main Street
are critical elements in planning for
sustainable development. The preservation
of River Falls' visual character was
identified as essential.
This chapter provides a context for River
Falls' historic resources by presenting an
overview of the current efforts at identifying
and managing historic assets and providing a
plan for conservation and preservation of
these assets. Guiding and implementing
policies establish a means by which the City
intends to further its efforts of appropriately
managing its historic resources and
integrating them into urban design and
development strategies. The following
guiding policies apply to this chapter:
JCV-fD-fXJCQ1O"CIES
3-G-1 Foster municipal and community
awareness, positive appreciation, and
support for River Falls' archeological,
cultural, agricultural, and historic resources.
3-G-2 Identify and assess archeological and
historic resources (manmade) for the
aesthetic, educational, economic, and
scientific contributions they make to River
Falls' quality of life.
3-G-3 Respect and sensitively manage
archeological, cultural and historic patterns,
resource, and symbols, preserving the
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RIVER FALLS
contributions they make to understanding
River Falls' characteristic, cultural tradition.
3-G-4 Preserve the heterogeneous cultural,
historic, and visual qualities of River Falls.
3-G-5 Recognize that policies of promoting
affordable housing and preserving the
cultural, historic, and visual qualities of
River Falls may require close coordination.
Inventory (AHI).
,#,-c,fdecturalandJV Zrtorrc hrventory
The Architectural and Historic Inventory
(AHI) is a database that records historic
structures compiled by the Wisconsin
Historical Society. The River Falls Historic
Preservation Commission (HPC) has
obtained a copy of that database and will use
it with discretion along with geographic
information systems (GIS) data to document
the characteristics of the historic resources
within the City. The database currently
contains data documenting construction
dates, demolition dates, architectural styles,
AHI identification numbers, builder names,
property addresses, historic building names,
historic designations and dates. Maintaining
and updating the local AHI database is a
HPC priority.
A top priority for the AHI project is to
continue to update the local database with
historic photos and historical biographies.
The final product will be a customized, user-
J7Z7O-VC9MS07J4 f6 E 3-1
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01-eserratkw Plan
friendly program. The information will be
distributed to the schools, libraries,
businesses and residences as an educational
resource documenting the history of the
City.
Figure 8: The City ofRiver Falls platted in
approximately 1907-08, including original
plats of Kinnickinnic, Greenwood and
Malone Towns.
De" 7futnrrc ftnpert re. r
Historic properties can be listed as historic
on National Register of Historic Places the
state register or designated by local
ordinance. The City of River Falls historic
preservation ordinance allows for three
different designation categories:
1. historic structure or building,
2. historic district, and
3. historic site.
Local designations must have approval of
homeowner or business/structure owner, and
depend on the type of property under
consideration and its location to other
historic buildings.
For example, cemeteries would fall under
the historic site designation. However,
buildings could be designated either as a
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RIVER FALLS
historic structure or as part of a historic
district if enough historic buildings were
clustered together. The type designation
will be determined by its historic importance
at either the local, state or federal level.
The process in which the River Falls HPC
will proceed in determining what properties
should be designated is to survey properties
that have one or more of the following
criteria:
1. A quality of significance in the history
of the City of River Falls;
2. The structure or site possesses integrity
in architecture, archeology, design,
setting, materials, and workmanship;
3. The structure is more than 50 years old;
4. The structure is associated with the lives
of persons significant in our past; and
5. Yields information important in
prehistory or history
Determining which properties meet these
criteria requires research. Utilizing the
existing AHI and updating records through
historical research, updates will be made to
the list of "Important Historical Properties."
The HPC will review original plats (see
Figure 7 and Appendix C 1965 corporate
limits) to identify historic properties. Where
individual buildings meet the criteria for
local designation, the "historic structure"
designation will be used. If or when a
cluster of historic structures is recognized,
then the "historic district" designation will
be used. It is HPC policy to designate
property only with the owners' approval.
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Photo 26: Birthplace o�Wisconsin Governor Warren
P. Knowles, 127 N. 4x Street. He was born August
19, 1908. He was governor f on2 1965-1971. He died
on April 1, 1993.
An intensive survey was conducted from
August 1990 through September 1991 to
research and evaluate the historical and
architectural properties, including buildings,
structures, sites, and districts within the
corporate limits of the City of River Falls.
During this project each property included in
the reconnaissance level survey was
evaluated for National Register of Historic
Places eligibility according to the criteria
adopted by the National Parks Service,
United States Department of the Interior.
This survey updated an earlier windshield
survey undertaken by the Division of
Historic Preservation, Wisconsin Historical
Society in 1978. A professional architectural
historian employed by the City gathered the
intensive survey information. The finding
for the survey was made available to the city
through a grant program of the Wisconsin
Historic Society. It identified approximately
585 individual properties in the city, of
which 24 were identified as historically or
architecturally significant. These 24
properties are likely to be eligible for listing
on the State and National Registers of
Historic Places. During the intensive survey
phase of the project, detailed research on the
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RIVER FALLS
community's history helped form the basis
of information necessary for the evaluation
of historic properties. For each property
identified as historically or architecturally
4 IN Z r
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,
a
Figure 9: The 1991 Intensive Survey delineated a
historic West Side Residential District.
significant in the reconnaissance survey and
in the intensive survey, a four -page intensive
survey form was completed with
photographs, architectural descriptions, and
historical information. Survey findings lead
to the delineation of two residential historic
districts and one commercial historic
district. The report included a brief history
of the City's survey, methodology, results,
and a description of significant properties
and historic districts.
Survey results were placed in the files of the
Historic Preservation Division of the
Wisconsin Historical Society in Madison,
and a copy was provided to the City of River
Falls. A copy of the intensive survey report
also was placed in the public library at River
Falls, as well as the Area Research Center
located in Davee Library at the University of
Wisconsin -River Falls.
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Figure 10: The IntensiveSurvey delineated a
potential historic Residential District along 4th Street.
Figure 11: The IntensiveSurvey delineated a
potential historic Commercial District, Walnut and S.
MainStreet.
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RIVER FALLS
The list below contains some of the many
important buildings and sites worthy of
preservation. The Architectural and
Historical Intensive Survey Report identified
some of these important buildings.
Supplementary research has identified
additions to that list. These properties are
worthy of recognition in some manner,
either through historic designation or by
erecting educational plaques and historic
markers.
I. Swinging Bridge, Glen Park
2. Glen Park Swimming Pool, Glen Park
3. Prairie Mill Building, 421 N. Main St.
4. Masonic Hall, 122 E. Walnut St.
5. Junction Mill Smokestack, 401 S. Winter St.
6. Gladstone Hotel, 121-123 S. Main St
7. Lord Livery Building, 101 S. Main St.
8. Brackett Building, 128 S. Main Street
9. Johnson & Ellertson Hardware Store, 126 S.
Main St.
10. White Front Bakery, 124 S. Main St.
11. Rosenberg Building, 122 S. Main St.
12. Unnamed Building, 120 S. Main St.
13. Unnamed Building, 118 S. Main St.
14. S.D. Dodge Building, 114 S. Main St.
15. AP. Roberts Building, 100 S. Main St.
Photo 27: The southernmost of two 19xh-century lime
kilns that stand on the left bank of the Kinnickinnic
River below the lower dam.
16. Lime Kilns, Lower Kinnickinnic
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17. Foster Cemetery, Lower Kinnickinnic
18. South Fork School 817 S. Main St.
19. George Farnsworth House, 722 W. Cedar St.
20. Ole Ostness House, 521 W. Cedar St.
21. Thomas Walker House, 403 E. Division St.
22. Kimble House, 211 E. Elm St.
23. William Alton House, 603 W. Elm St.
24. Andrew Lund House, 127 S. Fourth St.
25. R.W. Freeman House, 220 S. 4th St.
26. R.N. Jenson House, 121 Fremont St.
27. F. Hardy House, 321 Fremont St.
28. Charles Parker House, 315 E. Maple St.
29. Unnamed House, 431 N. 2nd St.
30. Stella Deneen House, 120 N. 6th St.
31. John Reed House, 127 S. 6th St.
32. Hocking House, 127 N. 3rd St.
33. R.S. Freeman House, 220 N. 3rd St.
34. Ferris White House, 518 W. Walnut St.
35. The Academy, 211 N. Fremont St., former
Junior High School and High School,
longest continuing school site in this area.
36. Ole H. Olsen House, 210 N. Fremont St.
37. Jens Larson House, 214 N. Fremont St.
38. Olive G. Davis House, 315 W. Maple St.
39. G.T. Smith House, 323 W. Maple St.
40. W.P. Knowles House, 127 N. 4th St.
41. North and South Hall, 410 E. S. 3rd Street
and 320 E. Cascade Ave., UW-RF campus
42. Silas Symes House, 309 N. 3rd St.
43. P.W. Ramer House, 104 S. 3rd St.
44. Thomas Tubbs House, 302 E. Walnut St.
45. Tremont Hotel, 102 N. Main St.
Photo 28: Tremont Hotel at 102 N. MainStreet, 1944.
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RIVER FALLS
Photo 29: The Junction MillSmokestack, 401 S.
Winter Street, erected in 1879, designated a Historic
Structure, June 7, 2001, is a symbol of the
con2n2unity's flour milling heritage.
S.O.S. -Save Ow-Smnkertaof ftnject
On June 7, 2001, the Junction Mill
Smokestack was designated a historic
structure by the River Falls Historic
Preservation Commission. The smokestack
is arguably the most visible landmark tied to
the milling industry that was so prominent
for almost 100 years, starting in 1854. The
structure is in need of major repair.
Continued neglect would more than likely
result in destruction. The condition of the
smokestack requires that the rehabilitation
should be completed very soon.
A general analysis of the work needed to
restore the smokestack was done recently by
an area building restoration company. The
cost was approximately $60,000 for brick
and stone replacement, tuck pointing, and
the removal and replacement of bricks and
stones. Increases of approximately 10%
each year are likely because of labor and
material cost increases and the continued
decay of the structure. The sooner the
structure is repaired the lower the cost.
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Because of the immediate need for repair,
the HPC is moving forward with developing
a plan to acquire the funds necessary to
repair the Junction Mill Smokestack. The
consensus of the commission is that public
support is needed to rally behind the project.
Private fund raising and cooperation from
other community organizations is paramount
in developing that support. Local schools
have expressed interest in fund raising for
the project. Westside School has funded a
plaque for the Junction Mill Smokestack
recognizing its historic significance. The
school has also done history and art projects
focused on the milling industry in River
Falls. Support from the public, community
organizations and local businesses are vital.
Photo 30: The HPC will raise funds by selling
engraved bricks to help restore the Junction Mill
Smokestack.
Raising all of the money for the
rehabilitation project is not the objective of
the HPC. With a portion of themoney
raised, it is the hope of the HPC that the City
of River Falls and the River Falls Municipal
Utility will assist in funding the remaining
balance. At the August 8, 2001 HPC
meeting, a motion was passed unanimously
to attempt to raise $15,000 to go toward the
project. The River Falls Historic
Preservation Commission is coordinating the
fund raising and is selling engraved bricks to
help restore the Junction Mill Smokestack.
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RIVER FALLS
Cem Gnca%n vernment Statur
The City of River Falls is committed to the
appropriate management and sensitive
treatment of archeological, cultural, and
historic resources. The City will strive to
become a designated, Certified Local
Government by Wisconsin's State Historic
Preservation Officer (SHPO) and in
accordance with the National Historic
Preservation Act of 1966 and amended in
1980. As a Certified Local Government
(CLG), the City is responsible for
integrating historic preservation activities
into its function as a local government.
Avenues for achieving this goal, that will be
undertaken by the City, include the
maintenance of a system for identifying
historic resources, the establishment and
administration of qualified preservation
commissions, provisions for public
participation in a local historic preservation
program, and the enforcement of local laws
for the designation and sensitive
management of such resources. The CLG
program, administered by the Wisconsin
Historical Society, Historic Preservation
Division, will be a major source of support
and guidance for the City by providing
technical and financial assistance for
program development. It is through this
assistance that the City will be able to
undertake its historic building resurvey and
other archeological, historic, and cultural
heritage resource projects.
The HPC will work toward meeting the
criteria for CLG status and make it a high
priority project. The City of River Falls and
HPC has or will complete the following
projects prior to applying for CLG status:
1. Create and adopt a preservation plan,
2. Create and adopt a preservation
ordinance,
3. Designate landmarks or historic district,
and
4. Create a Historic Preservation
Commission.
3-6 J �Z704VC9MYOV4f6 E
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For the City of River Falls Historic
Preservation Program to develop, it will
have to look well beyond the preservation of
isolated buildings. In order that the City's
sense of history and sense of place be cared
for, River Falls will need to take steps to
sensitively manage its identified historic
resources. These resources include
archeological sites, architecturally and
historically significant buildings and
structures, its waterways, historic
neighborhoods, and other cultural landscape
features. The City will need to build on its
existing Historic Preservation Ordinance,
adopt Historic Design Guidelines, become a
Certified Local Government (CLG), and
designate historic structures, neighborhoods
districts, and other cultural landscaped
features.
Through cooperative management strategies
with the National Park Service, U.S.
Department of Interior and the Wisconsin
Historical Society, private preservation -
oriented groups and the general public, the
City of River Falls can successfully ensure
that archeological, cultural and historic
resources are sensitively managed and
integrated for the benefit of the community.
These benefits include those that are
educational in nature and instill pride in
River Falls' citizens about the City's
heritage. Planning decisions and resulting
ordinances should take into consideration
possible impact on the historic character,
historic resources, and the traditional
cultural life of the City. Planning efforts
should bear in mind the importance of
appropriately managing the unique qualities
of River Falls. The following implementing
policies speak to these goals.
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RIVER FALLS
citywide historic resource management
document and a strong historic resource
component of the City Comprehensive Plan,
and by organizing workshop and training for
municipal representatives, residents, and
special interest groups including River Falls
youth, design and development community,
business people, and the media.
3-I-2 Lead by example through the
integration of sensitive treatment of historic
resources in City sponsored public works
and park and recreation maintenance and
construction projects.
3-I-3 Strengthen and encourage
partnerships with non -City historic
preservation entities, including those at the
federal, state, local, and private levels
through participation and special projects,
offering and receiving technical assistance,
accepting grant funds, programming, and
disseminating information about such
entities to the public through educational
opportunities.
3-I-4 Strive to become a Certified Local
Government (CLG) by meeting the criteria
for status and make it a high priority project.
3-I-5 Determine the appropriateness of
developing management objectives and
standards for historic resources located in
the City's extraterritorial zone.
The City's-Towns extraterritorial zone has
and will likely continue to experience a high
rate of development. The high rate of
annexation requests that come to the City
from this area is an indicator that there is a
likelihood that these historic resources will
become a future management responsibility
of the City. Management of these resources
IMP, ar—KENVA-jgQU ICI�S under the City ordinances will ensure the
consistent treatment of them. Through a
3-I-1 Educate the community about the cooperative approach, the City could aide in
value of historic resources through a assuring appropriate treatment of them and
J Z70-VC9MS07J4 f6 E 3-7
4.iAM01i?
01-eserratkw Plan
review options for the City management of
these resources. As well, the City and
Towns should amend the existing Historic
Preservation Ordinance to include a review
of all property annexed into the City for
historic resources.
3-I-6 Investigate and determine options for
providing local level tax or other incentives
for the preservation and maintenance of
archaeological and historic resources.
While such incentives exist at the State and
Federal level, the City should take a
leadership role in this need.
3-I-7 Encourage early consultations with
representatives of proposed development to
ensure that potential development is
consistent with River Falls' historic patterns
of land use and construction.
Early consultation typically results in a
project that can meet the needs of the code
and the developer. Therefore, ensure the
preservation of the City's characteristic
qualities. Much energy on the part of City
staff and a developer's representatives can
go into negotiating an already designed
projectwhich does not comply with the
City's land use code.
3-I-8 Encourage and participate in the
preparation of the State Register of Historic
Properties and the National Register of
Historic Places nominations for resources
which qualify for such listings.
Listings of archeological, cultural, and
historic resources provide a means by which
the City can raise people's consciousness
about River Falls' resources. Incentives for
tax relief and occasional grant monies are
available to owners for maintenance and
preservation of these resources.
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RIVER FALLS
3-I-9 Investigate and determine options for
acquiring real historic properties and
interpreting it for the community's benefit.
In 2001, the City, through a matching grant,
purchased the Foster Cemetery and zoned
the land conservancy.
3-I-10 Support the adjacent Towns' and
Counties' efforts to further develop and
implement a historic preservation program
and ensure consistency between the City's
preservation philosophy and programs.
An opportunity exists to provide technical
assistance to assure that regional resources
are managed consistently.
3-I-11 Continue existing efforts to survey
and resurvey resources.
The last intensive survey report was
conducted in 1991. The survey needs to be
updated and corrected for its accuracy.
Resurveys will benefit the public as well as
the private sector in designating future
structures or historic districts.
3-I-12 Expand existing resource survey
efforts to include recording characteristics or
unique physical features and historic
development patterns.
The character of River Falls' historic areas
is defined by more than just buildings.
Many other features are recognized as
making a collective contribution to the
City's distinctive landscape. Such features
should be identified and recorded locally
and include street forms and physical
attributes, bridges, yard walls and fences,
and other manmade cultural landscape
elements.
3-I-13 Identify unrecorded historic
resources and consider them for
management objectives.
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01-eservation Plan
River Falls experienced a great deal of
growth during the years immediately
following World War II. Neighborhoods
established during this time may be
considered historic. As well, there are
known historic neighborhoods which have
not been assessed for the contribution they
make to River Falls' overall character.
These areas should be identified through
analysis of plats and surveyed for
significance, a process that could include
the training of interested neighborhood
residents to undertake survey andhistoric
research.
3-I-14 Preserve structures in neighborhoods
that exhibit individual architectural merit
and that collectively exhibit the sense of
place that River Falls possesses through the
review and consideration of amendments to
the existing land use law.
The City should review its ordinance
standards for preservation of structures to
ensure their effectiveness. This review
should include the consideration that these
standards are more specific to individual
buildings and less specific to the
preservation of overall district character.
Standards could be created and considered
for adoption that strengthens the
preservation of the overall district
character.
3-I-15 Examine and determine the
appropriateness of altering existing zoning
designations to ensure compatibility of
density, use, and physical character within
established neighborhoods and historic
areas.
There is tremendous development pressure
within historic areas. The development
pressure encourages the sale, alteration and
expansion, and change in use of historic
structures with a resultant possible loss in
historic integrity and possible loss of overall
�p glaiaonlen
RIVER FALLS
character. There is a need to revisit and
review zoning designation in historic areas.
3-I-16 Continue to identify, pursue, and
capture state, federal and other funds to
support historic preservation.
Photo 31: One of the four figures that stood in the
Foster Cemetery that represented spring, sunnier,
fall and winter. The cemetery property was donated
to the city and zoned conservancy in 2001.
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The visual character and historic resources
in the City of River Falls residential
buildings have key characteristics to
preserve and enhance. The manner in which
private development is carried out can have
substantial impact on this visual and historic
character. Many of these impacts are related
not to the type of use but to its design, and
the way that design responds to the context
of buildings, streets and open space.
While the previous sections focused on
architectural styles and architectural and
historic inventory in the City of River Falls,
this section proposes a Historic Residential
Design Guidelines for private development:
how the individual building or building
facade, structure, front and rear entrance,
porch and overall exterior appearance could
be developed, remodeled or otherwise
improved and retain the historic qualities of
the building.
The guidelines have two primary functions:
■ To guide developers or residential
owners wishing to propose expansions,
renovations or new construction of
buildings that have been designated;
■ To assist City officials and the public in
reviewing development proposals.
The following is the Historic Residential
Design Guideline Ordinance. On August
12, 2003, the City Council adopted this
Ordinance. These guidelines will only apply
to residences that have been designated.
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RIVER FALLS
17.77 HISTORIC RESIDENTIAL
DESIGN GUIDELINES
(1) PURPOSE AND INTENT. In order
to promote the economic, cultural and
general welfare of the people of the City and
to ensure the harmonious, orderly and
efficient growth and development of the
City, it is deemed essential by the governing
body that the qualities relating to the
residential history of River Falls, and a
harmonious outward appearance, that
preserve property values and attracts tourists
and residents alike, be preserved, some of
these qualities being:
(a) The continued existence a n d
preservation of historical areas and
buildings; and
(b) The continued construction of
buildings in the historic styles; and
(c) A general harmony as to style, form,
height, proportion, texture and material
between buildings of historic design and
those of more modern design.
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Figure 12: Illustration of the architectural
features of a home (provided by the City of
(2) DEFINITIONS.
Alteration means any change of the exterior
architectural features of a structure,
including, but not limited to, the erection,
construction, reconstruction or removal of
the structure or any of its parts. Additions
are considered alterations.
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01-eservation Pfan
Fagade means one whole exterior face or
elevation of a structure, from grade up to
and including the top of the parapet. An
individual facade is at least an eight -foot
(8') width that is offset from an adjacent
plane by at least four feet (4').
Height means the vertical distance measured
between the highest part of a structure and
the existing grade or finished grade,
whichever is more restrictive, at the
midpoint of the street adjacent to the
structure.
Porch means a roofed space outside the
main walls of a structure at street or first
floor level, which has a depth of not less
than four feet (4') from the outside face.
Remodeling means a change, including a
reconstruction, in an architectural feature of
a structure. It does not include additions.
Significant structure means a structure that
is approximately fifty (50) years old or
older, and relatively unchanged, and with
architectural or historical merit, the
demolition of or inappropriate alterations to
which would be a loss to the historic fabric,
quality, and character of River Falls, and
which has been declared to be significant in
a municipal, state or federal historic
structure survey, (whether or not limited to a
single structure) or is listed in or suitable for
or is eligible to be listed in a municipal
register, the State Register of Historic
Properties or National Register of Historic
Places.
Structure means anything that is constructed
or erected with a fixed location on the
ground or attached to something having a
fixed location on the ground. Structures
include but are not limited to walls,
buildings, fences, signs, swimming pools,
spas, microwave satellite receiving dishes,
�p �Caet�n�en
RIVER FALLS
TV antennas, communication devices and
tennis courts.
(3) BOUNDARIES. The boundaries
for the historic residential district within the
City and historic structures shall be
identified, designated and protected because
of their special character of historic interest
and significance.
The boundaries and legal description for the
historic residential districts as well as the
location of historic structures shall be shown
on the official zoning map and be located in
the City Planning Department and on file in
the City Clerk's Office.
(4) POWER AND DUTIES. The
power and duties of the Historic
Preservation Commission (HPC) shall be
consistent with the historic preservation
zoning section 17.76 of the River Falls
Municipal Code. The HPC shall administer
the design guidelines and, with respect to
any exterior alterations brought to its
attention, may require that those alterations
adhere to the original architectural style and
the design guidelines set forth in subsection
17.77.050.
(5) DESIGN GUIDELINES. The design
guidelines have the following functions:
(a) To guide builders and homeowners
wishing to propose expansions, renovations,
exterior alterations, and replacement of
designated residential structures.
(b) To assist City officials and the public
in reviewing development proposals.
(c) If there is a conflict between design
ordinances, the provisions of this ordinance
shall apply.
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Photo 32: A front porch on an American Foursquare
style house. Sarah Tozer House, 215 North Fourth
Street.
I. Porches. Preservation and
renovation of the existing porch and original
dimensions is encouraged especially if the
porch faces the street. If necessary, replace
in -kind an entire porch or section of porch
that it too deteriorated to repair.
Replacement should match the original in
appearance, shape, texture, detail and
dimension. When replacing items such as
handrails, balusters, columns, ceiling or
flooring boards, every effort should be made
to maintain and duplicate the original
profiles of these items. Rebuild steps with
materials matching the historic precedent as
closely as possible. Avoid enclosing
porches, especially those located in the front
unless historically appropriate.
All wood on exterior porches, except
flooring and stair treads, shall be painted or
opaque stained.
2. Decks. Decks in the front and side
yard shall be consistent with the historic
character of the structure and neighborhood.
3. Windows. Repair the original
structure before entire replacement. Most
windows can be repaired or reinforced. If
replacement is necessary, replace windows
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RIVER FALLS
so that they are compatible with the historic
character of the structure. If any of the
original windows that are compatible with
the historic character of the structure has
true divided lights, the replacement sash
shall duplicate the original window
appearance. If windows have been altered
in the past, restoration to the original
appearance is encouraged. Window
openings should not be reduced in size.
Vinyl windows or other synthetic materials
are not appropriate because they lack the
resemblance of historical wood windows.
On the sides and rear facades of the
structure, new windows in locations where
no window previously existed may be
approved provided they retain a similar ratio
or height to width as original windows on
the structure, are the same type of window
as others on the structure (e.g. double -hung
or casement) and are trimmed and finished
to match the appearance of other windows.
4. Entrance Doors. If the entrance door
is original and compatible with the historic
character of the structure, restoration of the
original door and its surrounding (including
leaded glass or stained glass decorations, or
columns and transoms of windows) is
encouraged.
If determined that the door and its
surrounding is beyond repair, replace in -
kind an entire entrance. All doors shall be
painted, varnished or prefinished.
5. Patio Doors. Patio doors may be
permitted provided they have frames similar
to full view doors. Installation of raw
aluminum or other metallic finishes are not
permitted. Patio doors shall be painted or
finished with a material that resembles a
painted finish. Patio style doors on street
facades shall be hinged doors, rather than
sliding doors. If new sliding glass doors are
0ES1y9Vg V1DEfJATS 4-3
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-- 01-eservation Pfan
installed, they should be placed at the rear of
the building, away from the principal facade.
6. Storm Windows and Doors.
Aluminum or other metallic storm windows
or doors shall be enameled, painted, or
otherwise coated with a colored surface to
resemble a painted surface and shall be
compatible with the historic character of the
structure. Painted or varnished storm doors
of wood and glass to match the original
design on the structure or on similar
structures in the district are encouraged.
Storm doors of simple design that do not
contrast with the style of the house may be
used. Full view storm doors will be
permitted.
7. Skylights. Skylights on the roof slope
over the main street facade are not permitted
unless not visible from the street. Skylights
may be permitted on rear roof slopes and on
side roof slopes provided that the skylight is
not obtrusive as to detract from the general
appearance of the building. The design of
new skylights shall be as simple as possible,
of the flat (not bubble) type, and finished to
blend with the color of the roof.
8. Roof Materials. Retain and preserve
historic materials whenever possible. If
replacement is necessary, use new materials
to match the original in composition, size,
shape, color, pattern and texture. Consider
substitute material only if the original is not
technically feasible. Vents shall be located
as inconspicuously as possible and shall be
similar in color to the color of the roof.
Rolled roofing, tar -and -gravel, rubberized
membranes and other similar roofing
materials shall only be used on flat or
slightly sloped roofs, which are not visible
from the ground.
9. Dormers and Other Roof Alterations.
Repair and retain existing dormers,
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RIVER FALLS
maintaining the original roof slope and
windows. New dormers should be
compatible with the architectural character
of the structure and neighborhood. Retain
the shape of the original roofline, especially
when visible from a public way. Other roof
alterations shall be compatible with the roof
shape and other historic features of the
structure, such as siding and trim details.
10. Chimneys. The exterior appearance
of original chimneys visible from the street
shall be maintained in good repair. New
chimneys shall be constructed of material
that maintains the historic integrity of the
structure.
Photo 33: Only the damaged or deteriorated bricks
are being replaced. The stracture is also being
repointed, which will preserve the brick, 103-107 E.
Elm Street.
11. Structure Exterior. Restoration of
original wood siding and original decorative
details such as cornices, brackets, shutters,
columns, and trim is encouraged. Soffits
may be replaced provided the proposed
material matches as closely as possible to
the original appearance.
Original wood siding or siding that
maintains the historic character of the
structure shall be retained and restored as
necessary. If original siding is beyond
repair, it shall be replaced with wood,
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-- 01-eservation Pfan
composite wood or other materials that
match the original appearance.
All architectural details including, but not
limited to, window trim, frieze boards,
cornices and other ornaments, must either
remain uncovered or be duplicated in
appearance and shall project beyond the
siding the same dimensions as the original.
Restoration of lost architectural trim is
encouraged.
Original brick, stone and stucco siding
should be retained. Replace or repair only
the damaged portion. If any masonry
feature is extensively deteriorated or
missing, that feature should be replaced in -
kind. Mortar, stucco and other exterior
materials should match the original in
strength, composition, color, and texture.
Old mortar joints should also be matched in
width and joint profile. Painting of
unpainted brick is not permitted.
12. Foundations. All original foundation
masonry, such as brick, stone or concrete
block, shall be retained unless it is
determined that significant repairs are
required, in which case replacement with
materials to duplicate the original
appearance is encouraged. If duplicating the
original appearance is not practical, other
materials may be approved provided they
maintain the historic character of the
structure and the district.
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RIVER FALLS
Photo 34: An addition on the north (right) side of a
home is setback from the street facade. Lillian
Currier House, 223 North Fourth Street.
13. Additions. Construct a new addition
so that there is the least possible loss of
historic materials and so that character -
defining features of the original structure are
not obscured, damaged or destroyed. New
additions should be located on an
inconspicuous side or rear elevation so that
the work does not radically change the
character of the historic structure. Additions
should be compatible in terms of mass,
materials, relationship of solids to voids, and
color. A rooftop addition should be set back
from the wall plane and be as inconspicuous
as possible when viewed from the street.
Foundation material on new additions shall
duplicate the original foundation material
whenever practical. Other foundation
materials may also be permitted provided
they do not detract from the historic
character of the structure.
14. Fire Escapes and Rescue Platforms.
Fire escapes and rescue platforms shall be
located such that they are as unobtrusive
from the street as possible. No fire escapes
or rescue platforms shall be permitted on the
front facade of a structure unless it is
determined that no other location is
practical. The design of fire escapes and
rescue platforms shall be painted to blend
VESIgX(gV1D LI9VTS 4-5
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-- 01-eservatkw Pfan
with the colors of the house. Handicap
access and appropriate compatible design
shall be considered.
Photo 35: Shutters on a Colonial Revival style
house. Dave Deiss House, 326 North Third Street.
15. Shutters. Shutters will be permitted
provided that they are compatible with the
historic character of the structure.
with the main building. W. P. Knowles House, 127
North Fourth Street.
16. Accessory Structures. Retain and
preserve all historic accessory structures and
their features that are character -defining
elements, which includes foundations, steps,
roof form, windows, doors, architectural
trim and lattices. Replace only the
deteriorated item to match the original in
size, scale, proportion, appearance, texture,
and detail. Replace a historic accessory
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RIVER FALLS
structure that is completely missing with
either a reconstruction based on accurate
documentation or a new design compatible
with the historic character of the main
building or historic outbuildings in the
district. Keep the proportion and the height
of new garages and outbuildings compatible
with the proportion and height of historic
garages and outbuildings in the
neighborhood. Locate new accessory
structures in rear yards in a traditional
relationship to the main building. Use
traditional roof forms, materials, and details
compatible with the main building or
historic outbuilding in the district when
constructing new garages, outbuildings, and
decks.
17. Fences and Retaining Walls. Retain
and preserve the original fence and wall
material whenever possible. If replacement
is necessary, use new materials that match
the historic materials in composition, size,
shape, color, pattern, and texture. Design
new fences based on documentation of a
historic fence, or create a new design
compatible with the historic character of the
structure and the neighborhood if a new
fence or wall is to be constructed. New
retaining walls in the front yard are not
permitted unless determined for a health and
safety need.
18. Signage. Signs shall be designed in
a style that is consistent with the historic
building. No sign shall cover any
historically significant features. Materials
used shall be historically appropriate.
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Plans are policy instruments that provide the
basis for the implementation for
development and land use regulations, that
are contained within this plan and in the
municipal code. Unlike Master Plans,
regulations contained in the federal, state,
extraterritorial and municipal code, such as
zoning and subdivision regulations are not
policy -making instruments, but rather tools
to implement policies established in the
plans and elsewhere.
The municipal code, which contains the
regulations, will be a key tool in
implementing the policies of this new plan.
JCV_fD_fXJCQ10"C_fES
5—G-1 Ensure consistency between this
plan and City regulations.
5—G-2 Prepare an orderly procedure for
review of projects.
5—G-3 Ensure that this plan is maintained
as a living plan reflecting the current
community priorities.
5—G-4 Ensure that the City, state and
federal policies and procedures for historic
preservation are followed.
szfft 14" qMWEXim
The Wisconsin Historical Society, Division
of Historic Preservation provides
preservation assistance and presentations to
all 72 counties and funds six regional
archeological programs, which are located in
LaCrosse, Rhinelander, Stevens Point,
Green Bay, Oshkosh, and Milwaukee. The
Division's state and federally mandated
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RIVER FALLS
responsibilities are handled with the
following programs: Architectural Services,
Burial Site Preservation, Compliance, Local
Assistance and Editorial, Office of the State
Archeologist, and Survey and Registration.
Through these programs, the Division
maintains an inventory of Wisconsin's
historic properties, archeological sites, and
burial places. The Division also administers
survey and inventory grants, conducts and
supports archeological research. The
Division will provide technical assistance to
local government and owners of historical
properties, administers the Certified Local
Government program, nominates sites to the
National and State Register of Historic
Places, supports research on historic
architecture, administers federal and state
tax credit programs for the rehabilitation of
historic properties, and catalogs burial sites,
and reviews public projects for their effects
on historic properties.
As stated above, the state and federal
government provides recognition for historic
places and financial incentives. The state
and federal governments provide tax credit
incentives for qualified properties to
rehabilitate properties to objective standards.
The Secretary of Interior's Standards for
Rehabilitation must be followed to receive
tax credits. Currently the State of Wisconsin
offers a 25% tax credit for the restoration of
qualified residential properties.
Local government can have a regulatory
component among many of its preservation
activities. River Falls, along with many
other municipalities, has passed zoning
codes for altering properties designated
historic. These rules, however, vary greatly
from community to community. Some
communities may wish to follow stronger
standards as provided by the Secretary of
Interior for rehabilitation, while others may
be less restrictive and allow for modern
materials.
I9V,571'gV7P0ff,-1L MAffg 5-1
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01-eservation Pfan
The City, state and federal governments all
promote historic preservation by
coordinating education programs.
Informational resources are created through
conferences, publications, the Internet, and
classes on preservation.
Photo 37: City ofRiver Falls MainStreet, 1891.
CYTYW9 VZ1#V 0XS
In November of 1995, the City of River
Falls adopted to the Zoning Section of the
Municipal Code Section 21.31 HISTORIC
PRESERVATION. The purpose and intent
was the City of River Falls hereby declared
a matter of public policy that the protection,
enhancement, perpetuation and use of
improvements or sites of special character or
special architectural, archeological or
historic interest or value is a public necessity
and is required in the interest of the health,
prosperity, safety and welfare of the people.
(Appendix B contains a copy of the City of
River Falls Historic Preservation ordinance.)
The ordinance outlines procedures for
designating historic properties and the
powers for preserving historic architecture.
Properties can be designated as historic
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RIVER FALLS
sites, structures, or districts. The City
Council must approve historic districts after
a recommendation from the Historic
Preservation Commission (HPC). However,
the HPC may designate a historic structure
site or structure after holding a public
hearing. The HPC policy is that no private
property will be designated without the
approval of the property owner.
C0XSISMVC ,
The purpose of consistency is to ensure that
this plan's policies addressing topics such as
land use, preservation and conservation are
implemented. For this plan's policies to be
effective, they need to be translated into
parcel -specific regulations in the land
development laws and codes. Zoning is one
of the most widely used land -use regulations
and the best tool for implementing the
policies of this plan. While the codes
require that in case of a change in policy a
plan shall first be "amended," the
requirement of consistency needs to be
explicitly established in both the plan and
the code.
Only full consistency between the plan and
land development laws in the municipal
code can ensure realization of the
community's vision for its future. The
protection of neighborhoods and historic
structures and sites and the creation of new
neighborhoods (Traditional Neighborhood
Developments) that build on the
community's tradition and past are
dependent on consistency between the plan
and the code.
Upon adoption of this plan, the zoning and
land development regulations in the
municipal code shall be revised to be
consistent with the plan. This may involve
adding, removing, and/or modifying zoning,
development standards and other regulations
to implement the plan policies.
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Photo 38: The "Swinging Bridge" in Glen Park built
in 1925 and reconstructed in 1986
SVMW!rO-TC1OXS1J ZVC7,
Plan and zoning consistency has been an
issue for residents for a long time. At past
meetings, concern has been expressed about
the planning and code enforcement
functions. It has been recognized that
successful, long-range planning depends not
only on the development of realistic,
consistent, and achievable themes and
policies, but also upon having ordinances
implemented and enforced that are
consistent with a plan. There has been
complete agreement on ensuring consistency
between the plan and land development laws
of the existing codes.
Many citizens are adamant that the plan
should be used, honored, and enforced and
that it should include procedures for its
amendment, review, and periodic update.
Above all, regulations and ordinances
should implement the plan. In response to
these concerns, one of the plan's themes is
to ensure consistency between the plan and
the municipal, state and federal codes.
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RIVER FALLS
obsolete or unrealistic due to changing
conditions (such as the completion of a task
or project or adoption of an ordinance)
should be eliminated or modified. The plan
amendment process is also the means
through which the City, including the HPC,
Planning Commissions, Boards and Council,
private property owners, project proponents,
community groups, neighborhood
associations, and individual citizens can
initiate changes to the plan.
Application for plan amendments initiated
by the City, or general public will be
submitted first to the City of River Falls'
Planning Department for staff review.
Applications will be accepted on an ongoing
basis. Staff will prepare a summary report
describing the requested changes and staff's
recommendations, including any necessary
language and drawings, for review by the
HPC.
14-3"14Z WM-Wr
A summary of the progress made in
implementing the plan and any amendments
adopted during the preceding year shall be
included as part of the annual report to the
HPC. This summary shall include a list of
events, projects, and dates of adoptions of
any ordinances or amendments and a brief
description of the changes. The report shall
include any new city, state and federal
regulations that may impact the City.
-fMPrEAIE%N71 WVOXM"CIES
5—I-1 Prepare annual and five-year reports
on the Historic Preservation Plan.
OSSeF 5—I-2 Consolidate in concise and easily
09"ME�ND.ry EJgTY understood written form and make available
This plan is intended to be a living plan that to the public in a single, central location all
reflects changing conditions and community information regarding building and
needs. As such, the plan will be subject to development codes, procedures, processes,
amendments over time. To maintain this standards, regulations, and ordinances
plan as current, policies that become related to Historic Preservation.
I9V,S71'gV7POW,-1L MWE0 5-3
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5-I-3 Develop a handbook to serve as a
"how to" guide for designating buildings
and sites.
5—I-4 Review and update the internal
consistencies of all new and existing rules
and regulations, ordinances, and policies to
ensure they meet the guiding policies of this
plan and amend the codes to reflect the
policies.
As part of these updates, a continuing
educational program will be provided that
includes a series of seminars brown bag
lunches where staff would lead an
explanation and discussion about the codes.
5—I-5 Update existing historic surveys, and
develop standards for redevelopment and
development of structures and historic
districts
5—I-6 HPC may consider limiting their
approvals for no more than three years from
the date of approval of the applicants plan.
The HPC may consider an extension of their
approval upon request by the applicant for
up to two years for the plan.
Progress towards implementing a plan
means submitting for a building permit
within the three-year approval. If there is
no progress after three years the applicant
may submit to the HPC for a two-year
extension for the plan. If these deadlines
are not met, the development plan approval
would no longer be valid and the project
will be required to conform to all new
regulations.
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P4tffs,, 4WgV W,1 9"S"IFS
The following plans, reports, and studies assisted in drafting of the Historic Preservation Plan:
��Ylost oftliereplan report and-rtudier are lept onfzle at the 0' y ofq7-,T- lr'lannmg Department
Name of City of River Falls Plans, Studies, or Reports
Year
Municipal Code of the City of River Falls, Wisconsin
1885
City of River Falls Tax Records
1885-
City of River Falls Comprehensive/Master Plans
1930-1995
Outdoor Recreation Plan
1965
Downtown Trade Area Survey
1979
Main Street Streetscape Plan
1981
City of River Falls Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Plan
1989
Downtown Physical Plan
1990
River Falls Architectural and Historical Intensive Survey Report
1991
Consumer Survey
1992
Median Project
1993
City of River Falls Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Plan
1995
City of River Falls Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan
1995
Consumer Survey
1996
City of River Falls Housing Needs Assessment
1999
Citizen Opinion Survey
1999
Kinnickinnic River Priority Watershed Management Project
1999
Sewer Service Area Water Quality Management Plan
2000
Downtown Design Plan
2002
Other Resources
Year
Wisconsin State Statutes
1848
Town of River Falls Tax Rolls
1858-
River Falls Journal
1857-1861, 1872-
Prescott Journal
1861-1871
River Falls Press
1874-1883
River Falls Times
1894-1933
Urbanization in St. Croix and Pierce Counties
1971
FIRM Flood Insurance Rate Maps
1982
Cultural Resource Management
1986
United States Census: Table DP-4, Profile of Selected Housing Characteristics.
1990
Planting and Managing the Urban Forest
1994
Labor Market Conditions in Pierce County
1996
United States Census: Table DP-4, Profile of Selected Housing Characteristics.
2000
Other Publications
Beemans, W.L., An IllustratedSouvenir ofRiver Falls, Wis., River Falls: Hurlburt-Smith, June 1900
Easton, Augusts B., ed. History of the Saint Croix Valley, Vol. I & II, Chicago: H.C. Cooper Jr. & Co., 1909
Gottfried, Herbert and Jan Jennings, American Vernacular Design 1870-1940: An Illustrated Glossary, New York:
Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1985.
Graham, H.L., ASouvenir, River Falls, Wis., Red Wing, Minn.: Wall & Haines, February 1900.
Virginia Savage & Lee McAlester, A Field Guide to American Houses, New York: Knopf, 1984
Young and Gibbs, First Annual Review of Pierce County, Wisconsin, January 1, 1856, Prescott: Young and Gibbs,
1856.
IVVE"IX A-1
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-- 01-eserratkw Plan
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City of River Falls Historic Preservation
Ordinance Adopted 01/09/96.
17.76 HISTORIC PRESERVATION.
(1) PURPOSE AND INTENT. It is hereby
declared a matter of public policy that the
protection, enhancement, perpetuation and use
of improvements or sites of special character or
special architectural, archeological or historic
interest or value is a public necessity and is
required in the interest of the health, prosperity,
safety and welfare of the people. The purpose of
this section is to:
(a) Effect and accomplish the protection,
enhancement, and preservation of such
improvements, sites, and districts which
represent or reflect elements of the City's
cultural, social, economic, political and
architectural history.
(b) Safeguard the City's historic, prehistoric and
cultural heritage, as embodied and reflected in
such historic structures, sites, and districts.
(c) Stabilize and improve property values, and
enhance the visual and aesthetic character of the
City.
(d) Protect and enhance the City's
attractions to residents, tourists and visitors,
and serve as a support and stimulus to business
and industry.
(2) DEFINITIONS. The definitions shall be as
follows:
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS:
The certificate issued by the commission
approving alteration, rehabilitation, construction,
reconstruction or demolition of a historic site or
any improvement in a historic district.
COMMISSION: The Historic Preservation
Committee created under this section.
HISTORIC DISTRICT: An area designated by
the Common Council on recommendation of the
commission that contains two or more historic
improvements or sites.
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HISTORIC SITE: Any parcel of land of historic
significance due to a substantial value in tracing
the history or prehistory of man, or upon which
a historic event has occurred, and which has
been designated as a historic site under this
section, or an improvement parcel, or part
thereof, on which is situated a historic structure
and any abutting improvement parcel, or part
thereof, used as and constituting part of the
premises on which the historic structure is
situated.
HISTORIC STRUCTURE: Any improvement
which has a special character or special historic
interest or value as part of the development,
heritage or cultural characteristics of the city,
state or nation and which has been designated as
a historic structure pursuant to the provisions of
this chapter.
IMPROVEMENT: Any building, structure,
place, work of art or other object constituting a
physical betterment of real property, or any part
of such betterment, including streets, alleys,
sidewalks, curbs, lighting fixtures, signs and the
like.
(3) HISTORIC PRESERVATION
COMMITTEE COMPOSITION. A Historic
Preservation Commission is hereby created,
consisting of 7 members. Of the membership, if
available in the community, one shall be a
registered architect; one shall be a historian; one
shall be a licensed real estate broker; one shall
be an Alderperson, and 3 shall be citizen
members. Each member shall have, to the
highest extent practicable, a known interest in
historic preservation. The Mayor shall appoint
the commissioners subject to confirmation by
the Common Council.
(4) HISTORIC STRUCTURE, SITE AND
DISTRICT DESIGNATION CRITERIA.
(a) For purposes of this ordinance, a historic
structure, historic site, or historic district
designation may be placed on any site, natural or
improved, including any building, improvement
or structure located thereon, or any area of
particular historic, architectural or cultural
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01-eservation Plan
significance to the City such as historic
structures, sites, or districts which:
1. Exemplify or reflect the broad cultural,
political, economic or social history or the
nation, state or community; or
2. Are identified with historic personages or
with important events in national, state or local
history; or
3. Embody the distinguishing characteristics of
an architectural type or specimen inherently
valuable for a study of a period, style, method of
construction, or of indigenous materials or
craftsmanship; or
4. Are representative of the notable work of a
master builder, designer or architect who
influenced his age; or
5. Have yielded, or may be likely to yield,
information important to prehistory or history.
(b) The commission shall adopt specific
operating guidelines for historic structure,
historic site and historic district designation
providing such are in conformance with the
provisions of this ordinance.
(5) POWERS AND DUTIES.
(a) Desi ng ation. The commission shall have the
power, subject to Section 6, to designate historic
structures and historic sites and to recommend
designation of historic districts within the City
limits. Such designations shall be made based
on Section 4. Historic districts shall be
approved by the Common Council. Once
designated, such historic structures, sites and
districts shall be subject to all the provisions of
this ordinance.
(b) Regulation of Construction, Reconstruction,
Alterations and Demolition. 1. No owner or
person in charge of a historic structure, historic
site or structure within a historic district shall
reconstruct, alter or demolish all or any part of
the exterior of such property or construct any
improvement upon such designated property or
properties or cause or permit any such work to
be performed upon such property or demolish
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such property unless a Certificate of
Appropriateness has been granted by the
Historic Preservation Commission. Also, unless
such certificate has been granted by the
commission, the Building Inspector shall not
issue a permit for any such work.
2. Upon filing of any application for a
Certificate of Appropriateness with the
commission, the commission shall approve the
application unless:
a. In the case of a designated historic structure or
historic site, the proposed work would
detrimentally change, destroy or adversely affect
any exterior feature of the improvement or site
upon which said work is to be done;
b. In the case of the construction of a new
improvement upon a historic site, or within a
historic district, the exterior of such
improvement would adversely affect or n o t
harmonize with the external appearance of other
neighboring improvements on such site or
within the district.
c. In the case of any property located in a
historic district the proposed construction,
reconstruction, exterior alteration or demolition
does not conform to the purpose and intent of
this section and to the objectives and design
criteria of the historic preservation plan for said
district;
d. The building or structure is of such
architectural or historical significance that its
demolition would be detrimental to the public
interest and contrary to the general welfare of
the people of the City and state.
e. In the case of a request for the demolition of a
deteriorated building or structure, any economic
hardship or difficulty claimed by the owner is
self-created or is the result of any failure to
maintain the property in good repair.
3. If the commission determines that the
application for a Certificate of Appropriateness
and proposed changes are consistent with the
character and features of the property or district,
it shall issue the Certificate of Appropriateness.
. "M"IX A-3
The commission shall make this decision within
45 days of the filing of the application.
4. The issuance of a Certificate of
Appropriateness shall not relieve the applicant
from obtaining other permits and approvals
required by the City. A building permit or other
municipal permit shall be invalid if it is obtained
without the presentation of the Certificate of
Appropriateness required for the proposed work.
5. Ordinary maintenance and repairs may be
undertaken without a Certificate of
Appropriateness provided that the work involves
repairs to existing features of a historic structure
or site or the replacement of elements of a
structure with pieces identical in appearance and
provided that the work does not change the
exterior appearance of the structure or site and
does not require the issuance of a building
permit.
(c) Appeals. Should the commission fail to
issue a Certificate of Appropriateness due to the
failure of the proposal to conform to the
guidelines, the applicant may appeal such
decision to the Common Council within 30 days.
In addition, if the commission fails to issue a
Certificate of Appropriateness, the commission
shall, within the cooperation of the applicant,
work with the applicant in an attempt to obtain a
Certificate of Appropriateness within the
guidelines of this ordinance.
(d) Recognition of Historic Structures, Sites and
Districts. At such time as a historic structure,
site, or district has been properly designated, the
commission, in cooperation with the property
owner, may cause to be prepared and erected on
such property at City expense, a suitable plaque
declaring that such property is a historic
structure, site or district.
(6) PROCEDURES.
(a) Designation of Historic Structures and
Historic Sites.
1. The commission may, after notice and public
hearing, designate historic structures and historic
sites, or rescind such designation ox
recommendation, after application of the criteria
in Section 4, above. At least ten days prior to
such hearing the commission shall notify the
owners of record, as listed in the office of the
City Assessor, who are owners of property in
whole or in part situated within 200 feet of the
boundaries of the property affected.
2. The commission shall then conduct such
public hearing and, in addition to the notified
persons, may hear expert witnesses and shall
have the power to subpoena such witnesses and
records, as it deems necessary. The commission
may conduct an independent investigation into
the proposed designation or rescission. Within
ten days after the close of the public hearing, the
commission may designate the property as either
a historic structure, or a historic site, or rescind
the designation. After the designation or
rescission has been made, notification shall be
sent to the property owner or owners.
Notification shall also be given to the City
Clerk, Building Inspection Division, Plan
Commission, and the City Assessor. The
commission shall cause the designation or
rescission to be recorded, at City expense, in the
County Register of Deeds office.
(b) Creation of Historic District.
1. Area Designated; Analysis. For preservation
purposes, the Historic Preservation Commission
shall select geographically defined areas within
the City to be designated as Historic Districts
and shall prepare a historic preservation plan for
each area. A Historic District may be designated
for any geographic area of particular historic,
architectural or cultural significance to the City,
after application of the criteria in Section 4
above. Each historic preservation plan prepared
for or by the Historic Preservation Commission
shall include a cultural and architectural analysis
supporting the historic significance of the area,
the specific guidelines for development, and a
statement ofpreservation objectives.
2. Review and Adoption Procedure.
a. Historic Preservation Commission. The
Historic Preservation Commission shall hold a
public hearing when considering the plan for a
historic district. Notice of the time, place and
purpose of the public hearing shall be sent by the
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City Clerk to the Alderperson of the Aldermanic
District or Districts in which the Historic District
is located, and the owners of record, as listed in
the office of the City Assessor, who are owners
of the property within the proposed Historic
District or are situated in whole or in part within
200 feet of the boundaries of the proposed
Historic District. Said notice is to be sent at
least ten days prior to the date of the public
hearing. Following the public hearing, the
Historic Preservation Commission shall vote to
recommend, reject or withhold action of the
plan.
b. The Common Council. The Common
Council, upon receipt of the recommendations
from the Historic Preservation Commission shall
hold a public hearing, notice to be given as
noted in subparagraph a. above and shall,
following the public hearing either designate or
reject the Historic District. Designation of the
Historic District shall constitute adoption of the
plan prepared for that district and direct the
implementation of said plan.
(7) INTERIM CONTROL. No building
permit shall be issued by the Building Inspector
for alteration, construction, demolition, or
removal of a nominated historic structure,
historic site, or any property or structure within a
nominated historic district from the date of the
meeting of the Historic Preservation
Commission at which a nomination form is first
presented until the final disposition of the
nomination by the Historic Preservation
Commission or the City Council unless such
alteration, removal or demolition is authorized
by formal resolution of the City Council as
necessary for public health, welfare or safety. In
no event shall the delay be for more than 180
days.
(8) PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS. Any
person or persons violating any provision of this
section shall be fined $50.00 for each separate
violation. Each and every day during which a
violation continues shall be deemed to be a
separate offense. Notice of violations shall be
issued by the Building Inspector.
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(9) SEPARABILITY. If any provision of this
chapter or the application thereof to any person
or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of
this chapter and the application of such
provisions to other persons or circumstances
shall not be affected thereby.
'"VE DIX A-5
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Corporate Limits 1953
Corporate Limits 1965
Corporate Limits 1975
Corporate Limits 1985
Corporate Limits 1995
MJ�J�J, Corporate Umits 2003
A-6
APPENDLV C
Historic Preservation Plan
RIVER FALLS
RIVER FALLS
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