The “why” behind historic preservation
May 11, 2024 · Culture & History, Engage
“Old places are where our lives, memories, and stories began. They connect us to the past, anchor us to the present, and lead us into the future. These places inspire us to create a stronger nation, because they belong to all of us.” – National Trust for Historic Preservation
Happy Historic Preservation Month, Birmingham! Every year in May, this special celebration ushers in an exciting flurry of conversation around one of our favorite topics: Saving places. The Magic City is full of historic treasures (especially our charming City Center), and we are longtime advocates for preserving and utilizing these spaces. But if you’re just dipping your toes into the waters of this worthy cause, a crash course might first be in order.
What is historic preservation?
Historic preservation, as defined by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, is identifying, protecting, and enhancing buildings, places, and objects of historical and cultural significance. Government agencies, private entities, and individual citizens are all involved in these efforts.
Why does it matter?
All communities contain significant pieces of the past – and Birmingham is no exception. These historic elements are responsible for keeping our community’s collective heritage part of its present and maintaining its authenticity. The process of historic preservation helps to ensure that these ties remain strong and these resources remain intact for the enjoyment of future generations.
Can I afford it?
We have heard many people express concerns about older buildings and the perceived cost of rehabilitation. While preservation done properly is not a cheap exercise, neither is new construction. In fact, in today’s market, it is nearly impossible to build new buildings affordably while rehabilitation is within reach. And, most importantly, there are many more financial tools and incentives available for historic rehabilitation. These range from state and Federal historic tax credits, preservation easements, and property tax reductions. If you tear down a historic building, none of those tools are available to you.
Historic Preservation Month opportunities
Birmingham needs community leaders continually advocating for preservation and holding decision-makers accountable – but the first step on this journey is becoming informed.
The City of Birmingham’s Department of Planning, Engineering, and Permits has put together a robust series of activities to celebrate and spread awareness of Historic Preservation Month. All events listed below begin at 12 p.m. on their respective dates:
Historic Walking Tours
- Wednesday, May 15 | Historic Walking Tour of the Civil Rights National Monument & 4th Avenue Historic District (Meet in front of the Four Spirits Statue on the corner of 16th Street North and 6th Avenue North)
- Wednesday, May 29th | Historic Walking Tour of Avondale Park and 41st Steet (Meet in front of Miss Fancy the Elephant)
Historic Preservation Education Lecture Series
- Tuesday, May 14th | Historic Window Rehabilitation with Marvin Windows |Sloss Furnace, West Room
- Tuesday, May 21st | Historic Alabama Architecture | Sloss Furnace, West Room
- Thursday, May 23rd | Navigating the City of Birmingham’s Design Review Process: Tips for Realtors | Birmingham City Hall, City Council Chamber, 3rd Floor
- Tuesday, May 28th | Navigating the City of Birmingham’s Design Review Process: Tips for Contractors | Sloss Furnace, West Room
Read More
10 powerful examples of historic preservation in action
It’s easy to take for granted the historic gems we have here in Birmingham. Many beautiful, story-filled buildings dot the map of our city, their silhouettes adorning our skylines and their façades serving as the vibrant background to our everyday lives downtown. Although this is far from a comprehensive list, we invite you to keep reading and learn more about ten powerful examples of historic preservation already in action in the Magic City.
Main Street Now shines a spotlight on the Magic City
You may notice some new faces exploring downtown Birmingham early next week. Nearly 1,900 leaders in commercial district revitalization from across the country will convene from May 6-8 for the 2024 Main Street Now Conference.