This fall, Bader College is delighted to welcome back students and faculty from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) Historic Preservation Institute (HPI) for their third annual field school at Herstmonceux Castle. Thanks to a generous grant from Bader Philanthropies, this unique partnership continues its vital work: creating a comprehensive digital record of the 15th-century castle, one of the oldest significant brick buildings in Europe.
Led by HPI Adjunct Professor Amanda Wagner and HPI Director of Documentation William Krueger, the seminar offers UWM students an unparalleled opportunity. The program combines a two-week intensive field session at the castle with a semester-long studio in Milwaukee, where students refine data and produce final deliverables.
Hands-on learning for global impact
During their stay at the castle, students employ cutting-edge technology, including laser scanning (LiDAR), photogrammetry via drones, and Building Information Modeling (BIM). This hands-on work results in high-resolution drawings, 3D models, and immersive visualizations that will directly aid the future conservation and stewardship of the Bader College estate.
The impact of this experience resonates deeply with the students. As recent Master of Architecture graduate Teresa Klopp shared, “It’s not common to get to work on a project as unique and beautiful as Herstmonceux Castle. The collaboration between students was incredible. We all learned so much and gained vital skills.”
Other students, like Felipe Paez, reflected on the profound personal connection: “Seeing the structures I had studied for so long in person was a magical moment.” For Emily Leahy, the work even sparked new research interests in using technology to document vulnerable heritage sites.
Lasting partnership
This initiative is designed as a pilot for future international courses at UWM, demonstrating a shared commitment to global preservation efforts. The complete documentation package produced by the students will be shared with Bader College and Queen’s University, ensuring this valuable work benefits the castle's long-term preservation for years to come.
As UWM College of the Arts and Architecture Dean Elysse Newmann noted, “How we steward the world of yesterday is a strong predictor of the world of tomorrow.” This collaboration between Bader College and UWM is a powerful example of that stewardship in action, preserving a historic treasure while equipping the next generation of preservation experts with industry-ready skills.
We look forward to hosting the UWM team and supporting this important project that so meaningfully connects education, technology, and heritage.
