The Alabama Trust for Historic Preservation was organized and incorporated as the Alabama Preservation Alliance in 1987. A 501 (c) (3) not for profit organization, the Alabama Trust for Historic Preservation is the voice for the future of Alabama’s historic buildings, neighborhoods and places. The Alabama Trust operates with a professional staff and a dedicated volunteer board. The organization represents over 5,000 preservationists throughout the State of Alabama. The Alabama Trust plays a vital role in this state through:

Collaboration with the National Trust and the Alabama Historical Commission

The Alabama Trust is Alabama’s only statewide historic preservation organization available for membership. The Alabama Trust is a Statewide Partner of the National Trust, and the two organizations have a strong ongoing relationship. The Alabama Trust also works closely with the AHC, a state agency, to present the annual preservation conference and other workshops. While the National Trust represents preservation interests at the national level, the Alabama Trust’s focus is on the needs of Alabama.

Advocacy

As a grassroots citizens’ group, the Alabama Trust provides a statewide voice for preservation efforts. The Alabama Trust assists local groups around the state in seeking viable alternatives to demolition and making presentations to public officials concerning the value of preservation.

Endangered Properties Trust

Through the Endangered Properties Trust, the Alabama Trust administers two funds. The Intervention Fund is a last resort source of loans, gifts, materials and services to save imminently threatened historic buildings. The Revolving Fund is used to transfer historic properties acquired through gift, option or purchase to preservation-minded owners, with the proceeds returning to the fund for future projects.

The Places in Peril Endangered Properties List

Some landmark structures are lost simply because the public is unaware of neglect or impending demolition. The Alabama Trust actively solicits its membership and local historical/preservation organizations for important locations to place on a list, published annually in its newsletter, featured in Alabama Heritage magazine, and announced at an annual event. This program has led to at least 8 sites having been saved outright over the past 12 years, and the status of another 26 improved.

Nominate a site: Places in Peril application

Outreach

The quarterly newsletter, The Trustee, is a valuable source of information on preservation activities around the state. The Alabama Trust conducts Rambles in historic places that offer members the opportunity to tour places not generally open to the public and to interact with other members with common interests. Programs on a variety of preservation issues and subjects can be presented in locations across the State.

Contact our office to order a set of note cards supporting the efforts of the Alabama Trust for Historic Preservation. Cost is $15/set including shipping.