The Gazebo
Built: 1979
The Menomonee Falls gazebo is not just a structure, but a symbol of the dedication and hard work of individuals from different backgrounds and organizations coming together for a common goal.
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It all started with Wes Goode's generous donation to the Garden Club, which eventually led to the idea of building a gazebo at Old Falls Village. The Garden Club, the Park Board, the Village Board, the Historical Society, and the Menomonee Falls High School Building Trades class all played a role in making it happen. They searched for authentic Victorian gazebo designs, designed custom scrollwork, donated materials, and provided labor.
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The result was not just a beautiful gazebo, but a place for the community to come together and enjoy the history and natural beauty of Menomonee Falls. It was a place where people of all ages could sit and catch their breath while touring the historic sites nearby. And it was a place where the past and present merged seamlessly, with the Umhoefer cabin and limestone lady standing in the shadows of the new gazebo.
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In a world where technology often dominates our lives, it's refreshing to see a community come together to create something that honors history and provides a space for human connection. The Menomonee Falls gazebo is more than just a structure, it's a reminder of the power of community and the importance of working together towards a common goal.