PRESERVATION NEWS
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Florida Preservation News: March 2024
Historic preservation is making headlines in Florida. Here’s a roundup of news items to watch, and updates on stories we’ve been following: The Debs Store opened in 1921 in the two-story brick building at 1478 Florida Ave., now A. Philip Randolph Boulevard. Photo: Jacksonville Daily Record. Florida Trust for Historic Preservation Ongoing Education Grants Regional […]
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Florida Women Who Made History: Elizabeth “Bessie” Coleman
Bessie Coleman. Photo: George Rinhart/Corbis via Getty Images Bessie Coleman’s extraordinary life story is a testament to the power of resilience, courage and unyielding determination. As the first African American and (self-identified) Native American woman to hold a pilot’s license, Coleman shattered racial and gender barriers in the early 20th century, emerging not only as […]
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Florida Women Who Made History: Sallye Mathis
Sallye Mathis. Photo: Duval County Public Schools. As we celebrate International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month, it is vital to honor the stories of women who have played critical roles in shaping a more equitable society. One such remarkable woman is Sallye B. Mathis, whose dedication and resilience have left an indelible mark on […]
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Florida Women Who Made History: Grace Bell & Louise Pinnell
by Adrienne Burke, AICP, and Ennis Davis, AICP* *excerpt from an article first published in The Jaxson magazine Grace Mann Bell, born in 1880, was the daughter of prominent 19th century Florida politician, Austin Mann, and sister to May Mann Jennings, wife of Florida Governor William Sherman Jennings, and a political activist in her own […]
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Legislative Session — Week 8: Preparing for Nationwide Historic Preservation Advocacy
This is an important time for advocacy not only at the state, but also at the federal level, as vital preservation tools are at risk. Serving as statewide coordinators for the Preservation Action Advocacy Week, March 4-8, we are setting up meetings with federal legislators and leading a delegation of preservationists to the nation’s capital […]
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45 Years Honoring Preservation: Florida Preservation Awards Refreshed to Celebrate Florida’s Diverse History
On the 45th Anniversary of the Florida Preservation Awards, the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation introduced a revitalized program reflecting the organization’s commitment to diversity and inclusion in historic preservation. “We want to fully celebrate and recognize all the wonderful work being done in communities throughout Florida, so I am thrilled to announce our updated program […]
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Florida Preservation News: February 2024
Historic preservation is making headlines in Florida. Here’s a roundup of news items to watch, and updates on stories we’ve been following: Florida Trust for Historic Preservation Advocacy Ongoing Education Grants Regional Updates Events Survey Do you have preservation news to share? Let us know! Send your story to Dafni Kirkpatrick at dkirkpatrick@floridatrust.org.
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Week 7: Continuing Preservation Grant Advocacy
The Florida Trust for Historic Preservation was busy again during the seventh week of the Florida Legislative Session. Not only was it a busy week at the Capitol for the Florida Trust as it engaged with legislators and spoke at committee hearings. We are also hard at work in our role as statewide coordinators for […]
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Week 6: Spreading Love for Old Buildings at the Capitol!
This Valentine’s Day the Florida Trust spread the love for historic buildings at the Capitol! On February 14, the team visited legislators at the Capitol to share our Valentine’s Day buttons and spread awareness about the importance of historic preservation. The campaign offered a great opportunity to engage with lawmakers and staff and discuss historic […]
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Week 5: Continuing to Collaborate for Historic Preservation
Here are some updates on our strategic advocacy priorities from the Capitol this week: 1. Establish a State Historic Tax Credit Two days ago, the National Trust for Historic Preservation sent out an announcement in support of Senate Bill 1166 and HB 1183, the bills that, if passed, would introduce a state historic tax credit in Florida. After nearly […]
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Week 4: Advocacy that Bridges the Divide
News this week includes a pressing need for advocacy of the Main street Historical Tourism and Revitalization Act, Resiliency and Safe Structures Act heard in House and Senate committees Week four of the legislative session has been impactful: SB 1526, introducing the Resiliency and Safe Structures Act was amended in the Senate Environment and Natural […]
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Call For Speakers: Preservation on Main Street 2024
Preservation on Main Street, the annual conference organized by Florida Main Street and Florida Trust, will take place July 10-13, 2024, in Tallahassee. The city is also celebrating its bicentennial as Florida’s capital this year. We’re seeking speakers to share their insights on historic preservation, urban revitalization, archaeology, architecture, historic cemeteries, placemaking and placekeeping and more. […]
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Week 2: Keeping Session on Track!
Engaging with you You are the most significant part of our advocacy efforts — your voice matters! Thank you for being an advocate for Florida’s historic places this legislative session. Here’s what we’ve done in advocacy in the last week: Advocating for historic preservation in Miami Florida Trust Board President Mike Cosden and CEO & President […]
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Week 1: Florida’s Legislative Session 2024 Begins!
Despite challenging weather, the Florida Legislative Session began this Wednesday with each lawmaker receiving a Florida Trust coaster in their new offices. The coasters feature the skylight from the Historic Florida Capitol and remind us how close we came to losing that historic building to demolition. This story truly undermines the importance and value of […]
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A Year In Review
As the year comes to a close, it’s time to reflect on Florida’s journey in historic preservation throughout 2023. From monumental wins to poignant losses, 2023 has been a pivotal chapter in the ongoing saga of protecting the Sunshine State’s rich history and heritage. The Wins: Celebrating Milestones History Saved Florida shone brightly this year […]
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Preserving Florida’s Heritage Through the 11 to Save Grant Fund
Florida is a land of vibrant colors and rich history, where every shade tells a story. In 2023, we embarked on a journey to explore the colors that embody the essence of Florida’s heritage. From the cheerful pinks of the Ringling Museum to the bold reds of the Riley House in Tallahassee, these colors are […]
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Florida Preservation News: December 2023
Historic preservation is making headlines in Florida. Here’s a roundup of new items to watch, and updates on stories we’ve been following: Job Board: The Florida Trust is hiring a Development Director! Celebrate the holidays with our 11 to Save notecards. All proceeds benefit the 11 to Save Grant Fund. The Florida Trust is celebrating […]
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11 to Save Grant Fund: $5,000 Awarded to Mt. Olive AME Church
Tallahassee, Fla. November 30, 2023 – In its second 11 to Save Grant Fund cycle, the Florida Trust awarded $5,000 to Mt. Olive AME Church in Jacksonville, marking a significant step in preserving Florida’s historical landmarks. Founded in 1887, the Mount Olive A.M.E. Church was built in 1922 and was one of the most significant […]
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Florida Preservation News: November 2023
Historic preservation is making headlines in Florida. Here’s a roundup of new items to watch, and updates on stories we’ve been following: 11 to Save Grant Fund: Mt. Olive AME, one of Florida’s 2023 11 to Save, is awarded $5,000 for emergency roof repairs. To support the 11 to Save Grant Fund, please consider making […]
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Learn About Florida’s Preservation Toolkit!
In Florida, there exists a gap between connecting people who would like to preserve historic resources with tangible resources that enable them to make a difference. In order to fill that gap, the Florida Trust is creating and sharing a resource that gives the information needed to activate future preservationists to make a difference. Join […]
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Marking 2023: Considering the Colors of Florida Preservation
Seeking your support during our year-end giving campaign to raise $5,000 for next year’s 11 to Save Grant Fund In 2023 we embarked on a journey to explore what visually makes Florida’s historic places so unique. So, we asked you what you imagine when you think of the colors of Florida: what colors embody the […]
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Florida Preservation News: October 2023
Historic preservation is making headlines in Florida. Here’s a roundup of new items to watch, and updates on stories we’ve been following: Florida Trust votes in new leadership, including new Board President. Job Board: The Florida Trust is hiring Advocacy, Easement and 11 to Save Interns, as well as a Development Director! Celebrate the holidays […]
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Florida Trust for Historic Preservation Votes in New Leadership, Including New Board President!
New Executive Committee, two new Trustees approved at the organization’s Annual Membership Meeting in Ocala On July 19, Mike Cosden was tapped as the new Florida Trust for Historic Preservation Board of Trustees President by the organization’s full membership during the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation Annual Meeting in Ocala. Cosden has served on the […]
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Haunted in St. Augustine
by Candice Seymour. Photos by photographer & St. Augustine local Robert Vanmierop. St. Augustine, founded in 1565, is known to many as the Oldest City. But the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the United States has yet another distinction as one of the country’s most haunted cities. With a long and sometimes sordid past […]
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Florida Preservation News: September 2023
Historic preservation is making headlines in Florida. Here’s a roundup of new items to watch, and updates on stories we’ve been following: Save the date! 2024 Preservation on Main Street will take place July 10-13, 2024 in Tallahassee, FL. Tallahassee will also be celebrating 200 years as Florida’s capital next year! The Florida Trust is […]
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Historical Commission Reviews Grant Applicants
Every fall, the Florida Historical Commission evaluates applications for the Florida Department of State’s Division of Historical Resources’ Special Category Grants program, a significant source of funding for local, regional and statewide initiatives aimed at preserving notable historic and archaeological sites, for major archaeological excavations or research projects and the creation and development of prominent […]
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An Unforgettable Journey in Tampa & Ybor City
Our Insider’s Tour: Tampa wrapped up last Saturday after three days of exploring, discovery and fun. For those of you who weren’t able to join us, here’s a recap of the tour’s highlights! Welcome Reception The tour began with a welcome reception at the majestic Circulo Cubano or Cuban Club, built in 1917 as a […]
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Florida Preservation News: August 2023
Historic preservation is making headlines in Florida. Here’s a roundup of new items to watch, and updates on stories we’ve been following: Insider’s Tour: Tampa: Bring a friend and get 30% off! Registration is open! Sign up and join us in this behind-the-scenes tour to explore the history, architecture, culture and cuisine of Tampa and […]
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Announcing the 2023 Florida’s 11 to Save!
On July 19, the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation announced the 2023 Florida’s 11 to Save, a list of the most threatened historic properties in the state, at the Preservation on Main Street Conference in Ocala, FL. Each year, the Florida Trust announces its 11 to Save sites, which are nominated by the public and […]
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Florida Trust announces the 2023 Florida Preservation Awards Winners!
The Florida Trust for Historic Preservation recognized excellence in historic preservation around the state with its 2023 Florida Preservation Awards, announced during the 2023 Preservation on Main Street conference in Ocala. The Florida Preservation Awards were given in conjunction with the Florida Secretary of State Main Street Awards as part of the Florida Preservation on […]
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Florida Preservation News: June 2023
Historic preservation is making headlines in Florida. Here’s a roundup of new items to watch, and updates on stories we’ve been following: Deadline: Registration for Preservation on Main Street 2023 ends on July 12! Learn more and register here. Registration is open for Florida Trust’s Insider’s Tour: Tampa. Sign up and join us in this […]
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Florida Preservation News: May 2023
Historic preservation is making headlines in Florida. Here’s a roundup of new items to watch, and updates on stories we’ve been following: Deadline: Early Bird Registration for Preservation on Main Street 2023 ends on June 1! Learn more and register here. Deadline: Florida Trust is accepting nominations for the 2023 11 to Save until May […]
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2023 Legislative Session Wrap Up: Cemetery Bill is Passed & Preservation Grants Fully Funded!
Did you miss our Legislative Session Wrap Up webinar? Read the summary here: Yesterday, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed into law HB 49, the Abandoned and Historic Cemeteries bill. This is wonderful news for Florida! The Abandoned and Historic Cemeteries bill will create a historic cemeteries program within Florida’s Division of Historical Resources. The legislation […]
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Regional Road Tour #4: Reflecting on Preservation of Historic Cemeteries in Fort Myers
On May 3, 2023, Millennial Brewing in Downtown Fort Myers hosted a thought-provoking event in celebration of Historic Preservation Month. Aptly named Over My Dead Body: Preserving Historic Cemeteries in Fort Myers, the event was organized by the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation and the Florida Public Archaeology Network. Speakers Natalie A. De La Torre […]
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Preservation Month 2023 – Susie King Taylor
For Preservation Month, Florida Trust Board Member Ennis Davis shared an impactful story: Susie King Taylor’s remarkable life. Susie King Taylor, born Susan Baker on August 6, 1848, was an extraordinary figure. She played a vital role as a nurse, teacher and activist during the American Civil War and beyond, and became the first Black […]
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Florida’s 2023 Legislative Session Has Officially Come to a Close
Today, after nine weeks, the 125th Regular Session of the Florida Legislature concluded. Senate President Kathleen Passidomo joined House Speaker Paul Renner and other legislators for the traditional Sine Die “Hankie Drop,” a ceremony marking the conclusion of session for at least 100 years. 2023 Session Wrap-Up Webinar Throughout session, the team at Florida […]
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Preservation Month 2023 | Springfield, Florida
In celebration of Preservation Month, we asked you to share stories about special Florida historic places, and we received this heartwarming story (and amazing photos!) from William Hoff about finding community in historic Springfield. Check it out below! My wife and I moved to Springfield in 2008, a historic character-rich neighborhood just north of […]
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Regional Road Tour: Florida Trust Connects with DeFuniak Stakeholders
Above (clockwise): Forward DeFuniak Founder Melinda Henderson, DeFuniak Springs CRA Executive Director Joshua R. Ervin, DeFuniak Springs City Manager Michael Barker, Florida Trust Board President Jenny Wolfe, DeFuniak Springs Planning Director Chris Wallace, Florida Trust Board Member Ross Pristera and Florida Trust Business & Communications Manager Dafni Kirkpatrick. Nestled in the heart of Florida, DeFuniak […]
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Florida Preservation News: April 2023
Historic preservation is making headlines in Florida. Here’s a round-up of new items to watch, and updates on stories we’ve been following: Registration for Preservation on Main Street 2023 is open! Learn more and register here. Florida Trust is accepting nominations for the 2023 11 to Save until May 31. Nominate a historic […]
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Week Eight of Florida’s Legislative Session
The countdown for the Florida Legislature has begun, there is only one more week of regular session left! Fantastic news: The FY2024 Historic Preservation Special Category Grant List is fully funded! The Florida Constitution requires the Legislature to develop and pass an annual state budget, the General Appropriations Act (SB S2502/HB 5003). Throughout session, the […]
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Florida Legislative Session Week Seven: Advocacy Update
With May 5 just two weeks away, now is the time for a final push for preservation-friendly advocacy efforts Advocating for Full Funding of the Historic Preservation Special Category Grant List Check out our ,FY2024 Historic Preservation Special Category Grant booklet and explore the 33 statewide projects requesting grant funding. The Florida Division of Historic […]
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Week Six Brings Reinforced Advocacy
Only three weeks left of Florida’s Legislative Session and we have a few updates to share! Creating a State Historic Tax Credit ,House Bill 499, The Main Street Historic Tourism and Revitalization Act, is still currently awaiting action in the House ,Ways & Means Committee. Its companion bill ,SB 288, has been reported […]
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Advocacy Call to Action: Florida Resilience with Historic Places
Over the past few weeks, the Florida Trust team has kept a close eye on a few pieces of proposed legislation, including House Bill 1317 and Senate Bill 1346, the Resiliency and Safe Structures Act. There are two major concerns with this bill. First, the bill prohibits demolition review of certain historic structures. Second, […]
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Week Five of Legislative Session Recap
The 2023 Florida Legislative Session is more than halfway through! This week, the Florida Legislature is taking a recess from Thursday, April 6 to Friday, April 7 in observance of Good Friday and Easter weekend. Consequently, the committees’ agendas for week six are not available until early next week. When it is available, we […]
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Regional Road Trip: Florida Trust Cohosts a Happy Hour in the Gardens
On the first day of March the Florida Trust team embarked on event two of our Regional Council Road Tour – this time in St. Petersburg, Florida, a part of Region 5! Region 5 is made up of Hardee, Hernando, Hillsborough, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas and Polk counties. Florida Trust Board Members Kelly Perkins and Julie […]
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Florida Trust Team Kicks Off Regional Council Road Tour in East Central Florida!
In an effort to provide more direct support to our entire state and its diverse communities, the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation was thrilled to kick off its 2023 Regional Council Road Tour in Rockledge on Saturday, Feb. 25, 2023. The Florida Trust began the event by delivering remarks on what the Florida Trust does […]