An army of contractors in Pennsylvania has been working on a multiyear architectural survey to find historic places that state records have missed. More than 20,000 properties and 727 potential archaeological sites have been logged, including Black churches, Chinese laundries, drive-ins, and more. While some of these properties may not look old, they fall within the 50-year threshold for being considered historic.
The survey, funded by the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) at $700,000, focused on underrepresented communities and prioritized Black churches and cemeteries. The project aimed to find historically significant sites that might not be obvious choices for preservation, such as those associated with the Underground Railroad.
The results of the survey will inform future land surveys and may lead to preservation tax credits and grants for rehab projects. While not all properties identified will be listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the data gathered will be crucial for preservation efforts.
The survey marks a shift towards proactive historic preservation work in Pennsylvania, as the SHPO had previously focused on more well-known historic sites. The findings, which will be shared through PA-SHARE, have identified hundreds of sites recommended for further study or potential listing on the National Register. Local partners, such as historical societies and planning commissions, will be called upon to continue this important work in preserving Pennsylvania’s rich history.
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