Vincent L. Michael reflects upon the history of the Main Street program, founded by the National Trust for Historic Preservation in 1977, and explores the role of preservation in community planning. He also examines international heritage areas that focus on community and economy, an outgrowth of the Main Street program.

Dr. Michael, a senior advisor and trustee of the Palo Alto-based Global Heritage Fund, serves on the boards of the Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy and the National Trust for Historic Preservation. He formerly chaired the historic preservation program at The School of the Art Institute of Chicago.

As one of the three pilot communities in 1977, Madison, Indiana played an important role in the creation of the National Trust’s Main Street program. Communities that enroll in the Main Street program focus on design, organization, promotion, and economic vitality to revitalize downtowns. Today, over 100 communities participate in Indiana Main Street, which is managed by the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs.

The lecture is free with an online rsvp at vincemichaellecture.eventbrite.com or by calling 317-639-4534 or 800-450-4534.

(Photo: Madison, IN, streetscape by Lee Lewellen)