Why Historic Places Matter

Preserving the Past, Building the Future 

12/31/2024

Every building has a story. From the hands that laid its bricks to the lives that unfolded within its walls, these spaces are more than just structures—they’re legacies. Yet across rural America, the echoes of those stories are fading as neglected homes and businesses fall into disrepair.

In my own small Appalachian town, many of the historic buildings stand empty, their broken windows and crumbling facades silent reminders of a different time. Built by hand in the 17, 18, and early 1900s, these places once served as the beating heart of the community. Today, they sit quietly, waiting for someone to bring them back to life.

Everyday responsibilities to ourselves and our families are always top priority, however, I’m optimistic that in the coming years we will all feel our financial burdens progressively lighten as our economy here enters a new era. This shift could flip the narrative for individuals and families who have been struggling in a financially stagnant place, and open the door to a whole array of opportunities to achieve their goals.

With this in mind, I invite you to consider the following. 

And, as it pertains to the unfortunate modern state of so much of our great country's history, we can ask ourselves;

What if we could change that?

Beyond the rewards of preserving history, the potential benefits of restoring a historic building are immense. You might create a beautiful home for your family, a unique business location that supports your financial goals, or an investment property that enriches your community by offering housing or space for small businesses.

Preserving historic buildings offers significant economic and community benefits. Here’s some numbers and a case study on the benefits of historic preservation:

Economic Benefits

• Job Creation and Economic Activity: Historic preservation stimulates local economies by creating jobs and generating household income. For instance, in New Jersey, annual direct economic effects include $123 million in historic rehabilitation and $432 million in heritage tourism spending, totaling $580 million.
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• Property Value Appreciation: Homes in historic districts often experience greater appreciation in value compared to non-historic areas. A study in Texas found that properties designated as historic may see a 5–20% increase in value.
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Community Revitalization

• Heritage Tourism: Preserved historic sites attract tourists, boosting local businesses and fostering community revitalization. In Missouri, the positive impact of preserving historic buildings includes attracting heritage tourism and fostering community revitalization.
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• Sustainability: Restoring historic homes is environmentally friendly, as it reduces the need for new construction materials and minimizes waste. Old houses were built using natural materials like wood that can be patched and repaired, unlike modern synthetic materials that often end up in landfills.
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Case Study: Ramova Theatre, Chicago

The restoration of the historic Ramova Theatre in Chicago exemplifies the profound impact of preserving historic structures. Originally opened in 1929, the theatre was a cultural hub before closing in the 1980s. Its recent restoration has transformed it into a modern venue, blending sustainability with historic charm. This project has revitalized the surrounding neighborhood, attracting visitors and boosting local businesses, demonstrating how historic preservation can serve as a catalyst for community development.

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A Movement Worth Joining

Preserving historic buildings isn’t just for architects or developers—it’s for anyone who values craftsmanship, community, and a sense of connection to the past. It’s about recognizing the beauty in what already exists and the power we have to restore it.

I’m so passionate about this topic that I’m currently writing a book to dive deeper into the process of saving and restoring historic properties. It’s a guide for anyone interested in taking on this meaningful work, filled with insights on everything from researching a building’s history to navigating grants and restoration techniques.

For now, let this post serve as an invitation to explore the history around you. Whether it’s an old storefront in your town or a weathered farmhouse on the side of a country road, consider the possibilities. Your efforts might just inspire others to take action, too.

Together, we can preserve the past while building a future that honors it.

-Kate