Are there Burials in your Project Area? What you Need to Know.
If you suspect there are burials in or near a project area, there are a handful of key things to understand and address as you navigate next steps.
CRM + Architecture: How Resources Can Inspire Design
Through our documenting work in archaeology and history, we see that the story of a place is so much more than what is written in a regulatory report. The history of a place, written and unwritten, and the stories told through archaeological and architectural resources can contribute to the future design of a place and enhance its uniqueness.
Anne Ketz is recognized for her work restoring cultures lost to history.
106 Group’s Anne Ketz has been nominated to the Minnesota Women Business Owners’ Hall of Fame. In a recent interview, Anne reflects on her role in cultural heritage planning and a career dedicated to increasing knowledge, understanding, and preservation of cultural sites and resources around the world.
Tisha Allen Joins 106 Group
We’re excited to share news that Tisha Allen, has joined 106 Group as a Senior Cultural Heritage Planner. Tisha is a planner with a masters in historic preservation and a background in architecture. She has spent much of her career focused on place-based and comprehensive planning initiatives.
Dakota Interpretation receives AASLH Leadership in History Award
The American Association for State and Local History (AASLH) has recognized Hennepin County Public Works and 106 Group with an Award of Excellence for the Flying Cloud Drive Interpretive Plaza. The Award of Excellence is part of the AASLH Leadership in History Awards, the most prestigious recognition for achievement in the preservation of state and local history.
Meredith Anderson Joins 106 Group
We are excited to have Meredith Anderson join 106 Group as a Sr. Cultural Resource Specialist. In her new role, she will lead cultural resources projects that require regulatory compliance. Meredith is a respected leader, skilled in interpersonal communication, coordination, and analysis.
Heather Hoagland Joins 106 Group
We’re pleased to share news that Heather Hoagland, has joined 106 Group as a Sr. Project Manager. In this role, she will lead interpretive exhibits projects.
Christopher Hommerding Joins 106 Group
We’re thrilled to share news that Chris Hommerding has joined 106 Group as a Senior Architectural Historian. In his new role within our History Team, Chris will collaborate with our team on a range of projects for public and private clients.
Dr. Susan La Flesche Picotte Exhibition
106 Group is thrilled to share that we have been chosen to design a permanent exhibition dedicated to the life and work of Dr. Susan La Flesche Picotte, a member of the Omaha Tribe. Dr. Susan was the first Native American doctor. Born shortly after the Civil War, she dedicated her life to public health and land rights for her Omaha people.
Lindsey Wallace Joins 106 Group
We’re excited to share news that Lindsey Wallace, has joined 106 Group as a Senior Architectural Historian and Planner. In her new role within our History Team, Lindsey will lead a range of projects for public and private clients.
What You Need to Know When Archaeological Monitoring is Required
Archaeological monitoring is the observation of construction activities by an archaeologist in order to identify, document, protect, and/or recover potential archaeological resources discovered during those activities. 106 Group helps clients navigate this process and minimize the risk that an inadvertent discovery could hinder a project with potential schedule delays or budget implications.
Maggie Schmidt Rejoins 106 Group
Maggie Schmidt has rejoined 106 Group as Interpretation & Design Manager. In her new role, Maggie will lead our team in interpretive planning and exhibit development projects for cultural sites, parks, and museums.
Interpreting Impacts of Climate Change and other Strategies for Sustainable Parks
106 Group recently presented at the National Association for Interpretation Conference. Our interpretive planners, Regine Kennedy and Julie Davis, along with Joshua Tree National Park staff, Jennie Albrinck and Jo Lombard, shared strategies for mitigating the compounding effects of climate change and other challenges that parks face related to sustainability.
Decolonizing the Public Engagement Process
106 Group’s Regine Kennedy and John Reynolds, and Wakáŋ Tipi Center’s Director Maggie Lorenz co-presented “Decolonizing the Public Engagement Process” at the 2021 Minnesota Planning Conference. In this presentation session, they discussed Indigenous cultural perspectives guiding the engagement and planning process.
How To Identify Sovereign Tribal Nations For Consultation In Your Project Area
Section 106 regulations require federal agencies to consider the effects of their activities on cultural resources within their proposed projects. If your project will be federally funded or licensed, then your project may require consultation with American Indian Tribes.
Synchronizing Section 106 (NHPA) and NEPA Review Processes
Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) are two of the principal federal laws intended to protect environmental and cultural resources. Any project conducted with federal funding, or requiring a federal permit, license, or approval, is required to comply with these laws. So, how are they similar? How are they different? How does compliance with these laws impact your project?
Grant Park, Atlanta: An Old South Landscape for a New South City
Steve Gallo, Architectural Historian at 106 Group, is a published historian whose work focuses on built environments of the United States. He brings skills in researching neglected histories to his work in cultural resources. This summer, Steve's article on the history of Atlanta’s Grant Park was published in an issue …
How to Create Accessible Wayside Exhibits
How do you ensure that you are providing visitors with inclusive and accessible experiences? Where do you start when planning for interpretive waysides that are accessible to all?
What Does It Take To Plan And Design An Exhibit?
The creation of a long-term exhibit is a multi-step process. Take advantage of these steps to maximize opportunities for discovery that lead to brilliant, unique experiences for your visitors.
A Hybrid Model to Exhibit Design/Build
Working with the designers, fabricators, media companies, and artists in a single contract can be both efficient and creatively fruitful.
Exhibit Process Models: Considerations and Tips
So, you want to create an exhibit. How should you structure your planning process and contract? Here are some things you should know about Design versus Design/Build process (even if your contracting office doesn’t give you a choice).
Anne Ketz Becomes an American Citizen
We are proud to announce that Anne Ketz, our CEO and Services Director, has become an American citizen.
Tribal Resources Impact Analysis: Intersection of the Natural and Cultural World
106 Group was selected to present a session at the recent National Association of Environmental Professionals Conference. Our presentation shone a light on the confluence of natural and cultural resources, and how to effectively address them in projects requiring compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act.
Culture & Community: Welcome to Water Works
Water Works is one piece of a much larger story, in the layered riverfront history of what we now call Minneapolis. For this Mississippi riverfront park, 106 Group led preservation planning, archaeology, documentation of community histories, and interpretation.
COVID-19 – Not the Only Pandemic in Minnesota’s History
At 106 Group, we believe in Connecting People + Place + Time. But what does that mean for the current pandemic we are all experiencing? Are our collective experiences new, or part of a millennia of epidemics and pandemics that have shaped our societies?
The Landing: Changes Through Time
The Minnesota River Valley has attracted people to live and work along its banks for thousands of years. Archaeological evidence from The Landing-Minnesota River Heritage Park shows that Native Americans were hunting and gathering in the area since approximately 3,000 years ago.
Interpretation at Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
How do you interpret the history of a place older than the U.S.? Listen to our team’s conversation with the National Park Service at the 2020 National Association for Interpretation National Conference.
106 Group Interviewed for Wandering Naturalist Podcast
Recently, 106 Group’s Anne Ketz sat down with the hosts of the Wandering Naturalist podcast to share stories and historical perspectives on the Shakopee region of Minnesota and its people, past and present.
Happy Holidays From All Of Us At 106 Group!
As this unprecedented year draws to a close, we’re aware, more than ever, of the importance of connecting people + place + time.
When is Historic Preservation Radical?
History is radical when it gives voice to a people whose history has been erased from the texts of human memory. This inspiring and provocative discussion was framed by the work and visions of Poindexter Village in Columbus, Ohio and the Alabama African-American Civil Rights Heritage Sites Consortium.
Developing a Business Case in Support of Cultural Tourism Infrastructure
Within the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe’s Cultural Tourism program, proposed development of a new Akwesasne Heritage Complex was a key initiative. The Complex will be the heart of the tourism program, visitor experience, and community heritage and cultural programming. Developing a Business Case is an important step to support tribal decision making as they develop the Heritage Complex.
Equity in Preservation Planning: Saint Paul African American Historic and Cultural Context
We recently had the opportunity to participate in an important conversation on Equity in Preservation Planning at Preserve Minnesota 2020, hosted by the Minnesota State Historic Preservation Office.
106 Group Presents at National Association of Environmental Professionals’ 2020 Virtual Conference
PolyMet Mining, Inc. is proposing to develop a copper-nickel-platinum-group elements mine and associated processing facilities known as the NorthMet Mining Project, near Hoyt Lakes, St. Louis County, Minnesota. The Project involves the reactivation and rehabilitation of a former taconite processing facility and development of a new mine site. A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) has been established outlining mitigation for adverse effects to a diverse set of historic properties.
Building a Cultural Heritage Tourism Program
Strategic planning for cultural tourism guides the process for communities to realize their vision and establish procedures and operations necessary to achieve that vision.
Best Practices for Partnering and Collaborating with Tribes
106 Group recently presented “Best Practices for Partnering and Collaborating with Tribes” at the National Association of Environmental Professionals Virtual Conference. Together, with Paul Backhouse (Seminole Tribe of Florida), we shared best practices for tribal consultation and engagement and successful tools for building long-term relationships with Tribes.
Community Engagement from a Distance
When properly planned and resourced, a digital-first community engagement campaign can be as, or more, successful than traditional approaches.
Section 106 Basics
If you find yourself faced with a project requiring Section 106 review, the process can be complicated. Understanding how the process works is important to help you avoid project delays and improve outcomes. Here is some guidance for where to start.
Tips to Ease Overcrowding at Parks and Sites
National, state, and regional parks have seen overwhelming numbers of visitors amid the pandemic. A dream on paper, this has a downside. Interpretation can be a part of the solution. Consider these strategies used by parks to protect the resources and keep visitors safe.
Flying Cloud Drive Project Wins Environmental Excellence Award
Award from the National Association of Environmental Professionals for NEPA and Planning Integration.
The Reemergence of a Community
With the recent killing of George Floyd, the Twin Cities and 106 Group are at the physical center of a nationwide and worldwide conversation on race and justice.
Interpretation at Peavey Plaza
Recently members of our team met outside our office to review a prototype for a bronze tactile that will be installed at Minneapolis’ Peavey Plaza.
The Work That Must Be Done
We mourn the senseless death of George Floyd, and the pain and suffering in our Twin Cities community and throughout our Nation.
NAI Conference 2019: Accessible Exhibits
Your audiences have increased expectations and deserve unique experiences. Operating budgets are tight. How do you ensure that you are providing visitors with inclusive and accessible experiences? With thoughtful planning, one can create engaging exhibits designed for multi-generational, multisensory-attuned, and culturally and linguistically diverse audiences.
AASLH Presents Award of Excellence to 106 Group
We are honored to have been a contributor to the Saint Paul African American Historic and Cultural Context. The American Association for State and Local History (AASLH) recently recognized this document with an Award of Excellence.
Poplar Forest: Truth and Reconciliation at Thomas Jefferson’s Retreat Home
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission that emerged during the dismantling of South Africa’s apartheid system acknowledged four kinds of truth as part of a societal healing process. See how these truths are reflected in recent interpretive planning at Thomas Jefferson’s retreat home, Poplar Forest.
Julie Davis Joins 106 Group
Julie Davis, PhD, has joined 106 Group as a Senior Interpretive Planner. In her new role, Julie will lead interpretive planning and exhibit development projects for cultural sites and museums.
Flying Cloud Drive (CSAH 61) Project Wins Environmental Stewardship Award
The Flying Cloud Drive Reconstruction included support from Dakota tribes to interpret the significant number of artifacts including stone tools, pottery fragments, and animal remains, that were recovered throughout the archaeological investigations.
Coordinating Section 106 & NEPA
Jenny Bring recently attended the National Association of Environmental Professionals Conference in Baltimore, Maryland, where she participated in a panel presentation on Implementing Executive Order (EO) 13807, which aims to streamline the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process.
An Introduction to Cultural Resources Management Plans
106 Group is completing a CRMP at Point State Park that will guide long-term protection of cultural and historic resources at this iconic urban park in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Implementing Lessons from Cultural Competency
This is the third and final article in a series examining the role that cultural competency plays in the community engagement process.
National Park Week
Our interpretive planners and designers share some sights from their recent trip to Joshua Tree National Park, where we are developing new wayside exhibits.
106 Group at Beyond Tourism
The 21st General Assembly and International Symposium will bring together a community of academicians, practitioners, and members of the Life Beyond Tourism Movement.
Reclamation through Interpretation: One Community’s Path to Healing
Our historian follows one community’s path to healing in the wake of destruction by transportation infrastructure.
106 Group at Life Beyond Tourism
Members of 106 Group are attending the 21st General Assembly and International Symposium ‘Heritage as a Builder of Peace’. During this international event, our staff are presenting on “Managing the Impacts of Cruise Ship Tourism” and “Truth and Reconciliation through Heritage Management and Interpretation”.
Arlington House: Telling a Wider Story at a Historic Site
Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee Memorial is a place of study and contemplation of some of the most difficult aspects of American history, including military service; sacrifice; citizenship; duty; loyalty; slavery, and freedom. New interpretative exhibits provide a more complex view of the historic site.
Archaeology in Downtown Minneapolis
Our archaeology team presents special findings and uncovered histories at Water Works—a park with a unique design that incorporates a complex historical landscape consisting of the ruins of 19th-century sawmills and flour mills.
Cultural Competency Strategies
This is the second article in a series examining the role that cultural competency plays in the community engagement process.
Anne Ketz Re-Elected as VP to ICIP for the International Council for Monuments and Sites
Our CEO and Services Director, Anne Ketz, has been re-elected as VP to ICIP for the International Council for Monuments and Sites. In this role, she continues her work to preserve, protect, and uncover the stories beyond the hundreds of heritage sites around the world.
The Foundations of Cultural Competency
This is the first article in a series examining the role that cultural competency plays in the community engagement process.
Accessibility in Design: A Journey through a Visitor’s Senses
What is accessibility and why is it so important? Through the lens of human senses, explore how you can be more effective at making exhibits for everyone.
Fort Snelling Rehabilitation Creates New Home For MN VA While Preserving History
We are proud to announce that our work with Andersen Engineering and the MN VA to renovate Fort Snelling’s Building 222 is a recipient of the Preservation Alliance of Minnesota’s Impact award.
Flying Cloud Drive: A Case Study
Explore our recent project on Flying Cloud Drive, in which respectful engagement with consulting tribes, archaeology, and traditional knowledge came together to protect and grow the Dakota narrative in Minnesota.
A New Nature Sanctuary and Hidden Native American Sacred Place
On the east side of Saint Paul, Minnesota, at the base of an impressive bluff line, is a cave that the Dakota call Wakan Tipi and that Euro Americans have named Carver’s Cave.
New Ways of Thinking About Architectural History
Three of 106 Group’s architectural historians attended the Society of Architectural Historians’ annual conference in Saint Paul from April 18-22. Here are their thoughts and reflections on the conference as well as downloadable copies of the papers they presented.
St Paul African American Context: A Case Study
At the heart of Saint Paul’s African American history is the Rondo neighborhood. That history is often excluded from mainstream documentation. Now, the Aurora Saint Anthony Neighborhood Development Corporation is trying to change that.
A Lifetime of Revealing Forgotten Perspectives
Steve Boyd-Smith, Creative Director at 106 Group, is the recipient of the NAI Heartland Region’s 2018 Master Interpretive Manager Award. Steve’s decades of interpretive experience have enriched 106 Group’s work around the country. In this interview, he shares his thoughts on his long career and what interpretation might look like in the future.
World Heritage Day: Celebrating History that Sticks
In honor of World Heritage Day, we sat down with two of our employees to talk about their favorite heritage sites and 106 Group project work.
Top Tips for Community Engagement
Regine Kennedy shares her top community engagement tips after attending the Minnesota Transportation Conference. After years of experience in the fields of engagement and interpretation, Kennedy brings new light to this incredibly valuable service.
Best Practices for Community Engagement
Presenters at the engagement panel shared their expertise to create meaningful conversation surrounding best practices.
Interpretation in Museums
Our very own Chris Evans reflects on the state of interpretation in museums. With interviews from industry leaders, Evans discusses the common practice of leaving exhibits intentionally void of interpretation, where interpretation has a foothold in the museum industry, and tips for interpreters who find themselves working with/for museums.
Translating “–ologist” into Great Interpretive Writing
This past week our team led a workshop-style session at NAI’s National Conference in Corpus Christi, TX.
Finding Common Ground
The Interpret Europe: Mechelen 2016 conference recently explored how heritage interpretation can help evolving communities approach issues such as human rights, peace, and active citizenship. Anne Ketz’ paper, “Interpretive Planning Methods and Processes as an Effective Mechanism for Community Building,” was presented at the conference.
Keep the Conversation Flowing
106 Group senior designer Chris Evans joined a team of panelists to present “Stronger Together: How Digital Media Adds Layers to Guided Interpretation” at the National Association for Interpretation’s 2015 Annual Workshop in Virginia Beach. This packed session generated a lively discussion among interpreters about the rising use of digital media.
Beyond Tokenism: Working Toward Respectful Community Partnerships
How can we develop community workshops that get beyond the buzzwords and create truly meaningful collaboration with diverse audiences? Our senior exhibit developer, Maggie Schmidt, calls for building capacity—skills, knowledge, and authority—with all participants involved.
How to Choose Interpretive Media for Your Outdoor Site
Many people have the same questions about choosing interpretive media. Which media is best for my story? What resources do I need? How do I get started? Let’s ask a few key questions, consider some details, and point you in the right direction to select media for your outdoor site.
10 Ways to Meaningfully Engage a Diverse Audience in Community Planning
In a rapidly changing world where local communities are becoming more diverse, and needing to be more holistic in their thinking, public engagement can get people talking, learning from each other, and working together to identify problems and create solutions.
Great River Gathering in St. Paul
We have been participating in the Great River Gathering for many years. Over this time, 106 Group has been a proud participant in dozens of successful redevelopment projects in St. Paul.
Interpreting Sites of Conscience
What does it mean to call a place a site of conscience? While the word conscience has associations with fairness and justice, the stories surrounding these sites most often describe situations where there was an overwhelming lack of both these things.