Preservation Pittsburgh offers a variety of programs and services that include consultations, research and writing applications for local historic landmark designations, as well as for the National Register of Historic Places. As part of these efforts, we are working to highlight the varied stories of our past including those of underserved communities. Through this work, we hope to close some gaps in order to recognize women, people of color, ethnic groups, and sites related to builders and makers.
Thus, we are seeking funding to support the research/writing that will lead to historic landmark nomination applications to the City of Pittsburgh that will recognize the history and contributions of those who have been underrepresented in Pittsburgh’s documented history, including women, minorities, and LGBTQ communities. A public talk would be included so that we can share our work in an accessible and engaging format. It costs approximately $2,500 - $3,000 to hire researchers to complete a nomination and provide a related talk.
Given the collaborative nature of the process, including a partnership with the property owner and other community engagement, we are not able to confirm the specific nominations at the moment. We have a long wish list and would be happy to provide this upon request (and welcome outside suggestions too).
Designating a building as a historic structure offers recognition and celebration as well as some protections for a building’s exterior. Prior to Preservation Pittsburgh’s concerted efforts over the past few years, landmarking was done on a more haphazard basis. As compared to other cities, Pittsburgh had relatively few buildings listed. This meant less protections for our historic fabric and less information on our buildings and the people who inhabited them. As we took a closer look, we also noticed a number of gaps where there were few or absolutely no sites related to Jewish, women’s, LGBTQ, people of color, and others. We believe that all who made Pittsburgh what it is today should be reflected.
Our work has successfully resulted in designating buildings connected to women’s history, Jewish history, modest worker housing, and ethnic heritage. But there is so much more to be done and uncovered! Since there is much catching up to do and with the research, writing, and sensitive community engagement, it won’t happen overnight. We have board members and students working on some of these projects currently (pro bono). But to have more impact with thorough research, we are seeking grants to be able to hire researchers.
