Photo Essay: Bud Selig honored as Witness to History

“It’s interesting as I review history, I remember we were down to our last hope. And then it just happened. No one could have imagined we would bring the Seattle team to Milwaukee. They could not have imagined all this. It’s not possible.” – Allan H. “Bud” Selig

Selig’s dedication to baseball has paralleled his love of his hometown of Milwaukee. His first significant move as an executive was to return Major League Baseball to Milwaukee in 1970, when he founded the Milwaukee Brewers. In its first decade, the Brewers featured some of the great teams of that era, which eventually led to an American League pennant and a 1982 World Series appearance. Since 1953, the Milwaukee County Historical Society (MCHS) has honored individuals, community groups, and companies that have worked diligently to preserve and promote local history. The nonprofit held its 64th Annual Awards Dinner on May 9, and Selig was bestowed the Witness to History award to acknowledge his longstanding commitment to Milwaukee. As part of the fundraising program, the anniversary accolades recognize the 50th, 75th, 100th, 125th, 150th, and 175th anniversaries of local businesses, organizations, educational institutions.

The annual recognition awards comprise five categories:

Witness to History: honors those who have played a significant role in shaping and documenting our community’s history.
The Courtland R. Conlee Community Service Award: Named in 1981 for the Milwaukee Journal vice president devoted to the Milwaukee County Historical Society, this award recognizes individuals who make major contributions to preserving Milwaukee history over a career or lifetime.
Frederick I. Olson Historic Preservation Award: Named in honor of legendary MCHS Board member Fred Olson, this award recognizes the efforts of individuals and organizations to preserve and protect historic architecture in Milwaukee County.
Gambrinus Prize: Named for the mythical god of brewing, and awarded to the best book-length contribution to Milwaukee historiography.
Dan Emmer Recognition Award: Named for a long time MCHS volunteer and Board member, this award recognizes the efforts of volunteers or organizations that make significant contributions to the operation of the Milwaukee County Historical Society.

These images feature many of the honored guests at the 64th Annual Awards Dinner, including the Witness to History presentation to Allan H. “Bud” Selig.