Historic preservation

I recently passed through downtown Waukesha on a bike ride between Madison & Milwaukee. Unlike Madison, they have done a good job in Waukesha keeping their charming old buildings intact. With that in mind, isn't it ironic that many of the same people who rave about how wonderful and charming the old streets of European cities are don't give a second thought to the tragic, senseless and needless destruction of our historical legacy here in the USA?