NEWS

Historic preservation continues to make headlines across Florida, and this month’s roundup highlights key stories to watch along with updates on ongoing efforts. Have preservation news or a project to celebrate? Share it with us! We’re proud to honor this award winner as they celebrate their 100th year. Their thoughtful restoration and adaptive reuse of the historic 1926 Standard Oil Service Station transformed a once-blighted property into a vibrant community gathering place. Through preservation, creativity and a commitment to its…

Read more >

Florida’s historic theaters bring entertainment and pride to communities throughout the state and have done so for a hundred years. The exterior of the theaters called attention to what was going on within, often including bright, flashing lights and a marquee with the film screenings of the day. Inside, theaters generally featured one giant screen, sometimes with an orchestra pit to allow music to accompany the film. The growing success of theaters coincided with the invention of air conditioning, and…

Read more >

This month’s Emeriti Spotlight is Friederike Mittner, FAICP. Mittner is a distinguished planner and historic preservationist who has managed 19 historic districts and over 5,000 cultural resources in West Palm Beach and evaluated properties for landmark designation. She advocates for adaptive reuse projects and encourages making historic preservation projects economically viable as well as a sustainable solution in the planning field. During her tenure with the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation from 2007 to 2019, Mittner held key leadership positions…

Read more >

Historic preservation continues to make headlines across Florida, and this month’s roundup highlights key stories to watch along with updates on ongoing efforts. Have preservation news or a project to celebrate? Share it with us! Carrollton House – Join us in New Orleans this December Florida Trust News: Our annual membership meeting is this August 26th – Register Here Join our Lunch & Learn on August 27th with Scott Sidler, who will be talking about Fall & Winter Maintenance for…

Read more >

For five decades, architect Bert Bender has helped shape the preservation of Florida’s historic places while championing the philosophy that saving old buildings is one of the most sustainable forms of architecture. His career, spanning 51 years and 500 projects, reflects a lifelong commitment to excellence in historic preservation. Bender’s relationship with the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation began shortly after relocating his architectural practice from Flagstaff, Arizona, to Key West in 1985 when he formed Benders & Associates Architects.…

Read more >

Historic preservation continues to make headlines across Florida, and this month’s roundup highlights key stories to watch along with updates on ongoing efforts. Have preservation news or a project to celebrate? Share it with us! Florida Trust News: Ongoing Education: In Other Preservation News: Have any other news you’d like shared during our monthly new roundups? Email Natalie Carballo at ncarballo@floridatrust.org to get your news featured!

Read more >

Preservation momentum keeps building into the new year! Historic preservation is still making headlines across Florida, and this month’s roundup highlights key stories to watch along with updates on ongoing efforts. Have preservation news or a project to celebrate? Share it with us! Florida Trust News: Ongoing Education: In Other Preservationist News:

Read more >

A Hands-On Preservationist Working to establish historic preservation organizations is Jean Bunch’s forte. Bunch began her involvement with the Florida Trust soon after our 1978 incorporation; she served on the Board of Directors from 1981 – 1990. Bunch recalled there were many things the new organization had to figure out from scratch. Her work focused on bringing into the fold a historic estate that had been gifted to the Florida Trust. “I applaud the Florida Trust for staying strong with…

Read more >

Preservation momentum keeps building into the new year! Historic preservation is still making headlines across Florida, and this month’s roundup highlights key stories to watch along with updates on ongoing efforts. Have preservation news or a project to celebrate? Share it with us! Florida Trust News: Ongoing Education: In Other Preservation News: Have any other statewide preservation news you’d love to see shared? Email Natalie Carballo at ncarballo@floridatrust.org today!

Read more >

An Inadvertent Historic Preservationist From humble beginnings, Dr. William R. “Bill” Adams succeeded as a scholar, in the CIA, as a political appointee and then a historic preservationist.  Adams served the Florida Trust from its inception in 1978 to 1985. “The Florida Trust organized to acquire membership to develop funding creating a stable organization to lobby for grant funding to Florida cities and counties,” says Founding Member and Trustee Emeritus Bill Adams, aged 90. The Florida Trust for Historic Preservation…

Read more >

A Historic Preservationist for All Seasons Living in history while residing in the original student quad during his University of Virginia undergraduate career was inspiration for Don Slesnick’s lifelong dedication to historic preservation. Over time that evolved into what he considers his preservation philosophy. He said he believes adaptive reuse can best accomplish the goal of protecting the shared memories contained in our built environment. “Saving the built environment in relationship with our history, our past, reminds us of where…

Read more >

Preservation momentum keeps building into the new year! Historic preservation is still making headlines across Florida, and this month’s roundup highlights key stories to watch along with updates on ongoing efforts. Have preservation news or a project to celebrate? Share it with us! Florida Trust News: Ongoing Education: In Other Preservation News: Have any other statewide preservation news you’d love to see shared? Email Natalie Carballo at ncarballo@floridatrust.org today!

Read more >

Florida’s draft state budgets have left out critical funding for historic preservation, including zero dollars for Special Category Historic Preservation Grants and inadequate support for the Historic Cemeteries program. If these budgets pass as written, preservation projects across Florida will suffer, and the expert, ranked recommendations of the Florida Historical Commission will be sidelined in favor of one-off member projects. We’re asking preservation supporters to TAKE ACTION NOW! – Contact your state Representative and Senator and urge them to fully…

Read more >

The Florida Trust for Historic Preservation is proud to announce that the 2026 Florida Preservation Awards will be presented this May in St. Petersburg during the Preserve Florida Conference. These awards honor outstanding projects, organizations and individuals whose work is advancing historic preservation and celebrating the unique places that tell Florida’s story. Held alongside our statewide conference, the ceremony will bring together preservation professionals, advocates and community partners from across Florida for an evening dedicated to recognizing excellence and inspiring…

Read more >

Ellen Uguccioni – Fighting for Historic Preservation Ellen Uguccioni, an early fighter in the historic preservation movement, served as a Florida Trust trustee during the exciting mid-1980s. During her tenure, the Florida Trust was deeded the 1910 Queen Anne Victorian Hays Hood House, a much-needed command post in the capital city. She and fellow trustees were building a state organization with the political clout in the legislature necessary to raise awareness of historic preservation. She was made a Trustee Emerita…

Read more >

Preservation momentum keeps building into the new year! Historic preservation is still making headlines across Florida, and this month’s roundup highlights key stories to watch along with updates on ongoing efforts. Have preservation news or a project to celebrate? Share it with us! Florida Trust News: Ongoing Education: In Other News: Have any other statewide preservation news you’d love to see shared? Email Natalie Carballo at ncarballo@floridatrust.org today!

Read more >

Herschel Shepard’s Legacy of Historic Preservation A founder of the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation, an architect who expanded historic preservation in the state, an educator, historic researcher and published author, Herschel Shepard has received many accolades and awards for his body of work. “Herschel Shepard, a Floridian by birth, is highly respected and his mark on Florida is profound and permanent,” Florida Trust Past President and Trustee Emerita Leslee Keys said. “He knows more about the creative and integral…

Read more >

Preservation momentum keeps building in December! Historic preservation is still making headlines across Florida, and this month’s roundup highlights key stories to watch along with updates on ongoing efforts. Have preservation news or a project to celebrate? Share it with us! Florida Trust News: Ongoing Education: In Other News: Have any other statewide preservation news you’d love to see shared? Email Natalie Carballo at ncarballo@floridatrust.org today!

Read more >

Step into Leslee Key’s world and see why she’s this month’s Florida Trust’s Spotlight of Trustee Emeriti! An Interview with Leslee Keys, Ph.D. Leslee Keys is a resolute preservationist with a litany of accomplishments: she is the author of four books, has been an academic faculty member, faculty researcher and frequent presenter. She has secured, facilitated and administered  over 100 million dollars in funding for historic preservation, including archaeology, arts and cultural heritage projects. In her career she has proven…

Read more >

Preservation momentum keeps building in November! Historic preservation is still making headlines across Florida, and this month’s roundup highlights key stories to watch along with updates on ongoing efforts. Have preservation news or a project to celebrate? Share it with us! Florida Trust News: Ongoing Education: In Other News: Have any other statewide preservation news you’d love to see shared? Email Natalie Carballo at ncarballo@floridatrust.org today!

Read more >

Step into Clay Henderson’s world and see why he’s Florida Trust’s kick-off Spotlight of Trustee Emeriti! Passion Projects: Clay Henderson’s Historic Preservation Career Although best known for his water and land conservation work, Clay Henderson‘s first passion was history and historic preservation. A sixth-generation Floridian, his roots run deep in our state. He’s held seven gubernatorial council, commission or board appointments, written three books and held five teaching positions at four universities in the state, most something to do with…

Read more >

Preservation momentum carries into October! Historic preservation is making headlines in Florida. Here’s a roundup of news items to watch, and updates on stories we’ve been following: Do you have preservation news to share? Let us know! Florida Trust & 11 to Save News: Ongoing Education: In Other News: Have any other statewide preservation news you’d love to see shared? Email Natalie Carballo at ncarballo@floridatrust.org today!

Read more >

Preservation momentum continues this September! Discover recent achievements, new grant opportunities, and inspiring stories from across Florida’s historic communities. Stay tuned for news from Florida Trust and updates on the 11 to Save Grant Fund, educational resources, and announcements from around the state. Florida Trust & 11 to Save News: Ongoing Education: In Other News: Have any other statewide preservation news you’d love to see shared? Email Natalie Carballo at ncarballo@floridatrust.org today!

Read more >

Preservation progress shines this August! Explore the latest headlines, grant opportunities and inspiring breakthroughs making history across Florida’s communities. Florida Trust & 11 to Save News: Ongoing Education: In Other News: Have any other statewide preservation news you’d love to see shared? Email Natalie Carballo at ncarballo@floridatrust.org today!

Read more >

This has been one busy month! Read all about our July preservation news featuring the latest updates, key events, and exciting highlights from Florida’s vibrant historic preservation community below: Florida Trust News 2025 Florida’s 11 to Save News: Remembering Frances “Dolly” MacIntyre We honor and remember Frances “Dolly” MacIntyre, a dedicated champion for historic preservation in Florida. Dolly’s passion for saving our shared heritage inspired generations, and her tireless advocacy has left a lasting legacy across the state. Her warmth,…

Read more >

Historic preservation is making headlines in Florida. Here’s a roundup of news items to watch, and updates on stories we’ve been following like big news in Cedar Key, Preservation on Main Street 2025 and our Lunch & Learns! Ongoing Education: Florida Trust News: Other News: Do you have preservation news to share? Let us know! Send your story to Natalie Carballo at ncarballo@floridatrust.org.

Read more >

Historic preservation is making headlines in Florida. Here’s a roundup of news items to watch, and updates on stories we’ve been following like big news in Cedar Key, Preservation on Main Street 2025 and our Lunch & Learns! Ongoing Education: Cedar Key News: Florida Trust News: Grants: Other News: Do you have preservation news to share? Let us know! Send your story to Natalie Carballo at ncarballo@floridatrust.org.

Read more >

Ask Congress to protect the Historic Preservation Fund, which makes preservation possible in Florida! We are asking for the immediate release of FY25 Historic Preservation Fund dollars and for there to be continued preservation funding included in the FY26 Budget, a message that it is particularly important for law makers to hear given the President’s proposed budget almost eliminates preservation funding completely. Here’s what you can do: Reach out to your members of Congress and ask them to help facilitate…

Read more >

Cedar Key Named One of America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places Inclusion on the list will serve as a conduit for education and advocacy around one of Florida’s special historic places, galvanizing preservation efforts and helping to boost community Cedar Key, Fla, May 7, 2025 – Today, the National Trust for Historic Preservation named Cedar Key to the 2025 list of America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places, its annual spotlight on some of America’s greatest treasures under threat, at a…

Read more >

Historic preservation is making headlines in Florida. Here’s a roundup of news items to watch, and updates on stories we’ve been following: Do you have preservation news to share? Let us know! St. Johns County’s historic Magic Beach Motel Florida Trust News: Ongoing Education: Other News: Upcoming Events: Grants: The Division of Historical Resources application cycle for Small Matching, Abandoned African-American Cemetery, and Special Category will close on June 2, 2025 at 5pm (ET). In order to apply, visit the Department’s…

Read more >

Historic preservation is making headlines in Florida. Here’s a roundup of news items to watch, and updates on stories we’ve been following: Upcoming Events & Training: Do you have preservation news to share? Let us know!

Read more >

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 News Ongoing Education Grants Regional Updates Region 2 Region 3 Region 4 Region 5 Region 7 Events Region 2 Region 3 Region 7 Region 8

Read more >

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 Updates Events Other news Do you have preservation news to share? Let us know! Send your story to Dafni Kirkpatrick at dkirkpatrick@floridatrust.org.

Read more >

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 and the opening of nominations for the 2024 Florida Preservation Awards,” said Florida Trust Board President Mike Cosden. “We have learned and grown as an…

Read more >

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. Hosted in a different Main Street each year, Preservation on Main Street aims to bring together preservationists and Main Streets and illustrate that historic preservation…

Read more >

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 with numerous legacies preserved and rescued from demolition. Among these rescued treasures were: Legislative Progress Legislative strides were made to bolster preservation efforts, included fully…

Read more >

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 more than just aesthetics; they symbolize the resilience and spirit of our historic places. But preserving these treasures demands action, commitment, and tangible support. That’s…

Read more >

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 its 45th birthday this year! Don’t forget to get your commemorative Florida Trust swag!   Save the date! 2024 Preservation on Main Street will take place…

Read more >

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 a donation. Holiday gift: Celebrate the holidays with our holiday bundle, including a collectible Florida Trust 45th Anniversary t-shirt, sticker and pin, as well as…

Read more >

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 essence of Florida’s heritage? We were blown away by your responses: the white paint that helped to cool off historic buildings in South Florida’s immense…

Read more >

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 with our 11 to Save notecards, with watercolors by Chris Flagg. All proceeds benefit the 11 to Save Grant Fund. Save the date! 2024 Preservation…

Read more >

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 Florida Trust Board since 2018, and is dedicated to preserving Florida’s historic places with a demonstrated focus and commitment to diversity and inclusion. He is…

Read more >

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 that began with the slaughter of hundreds of French settlers by city founder Pedro Menéndez de Avilés, it is no surprise that history and legend…

Read more >

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 celebrating its 45th birthday this year! Don’t forget to check out these collectible t-shirts, pins and stickers that just launched! Event: St. Cloud Main Street’s…

Read more >

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 museum exhibits, enhancing public understanding and appreciation of Florida’s history. This year, the panel convened on Wednesday, September 27, in Tallahassee, and was attended by…

Read more >

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 Ybor City. Save the date! 2024 Preservation on Main Street will take place July 10-13, 2024 in Tallahassee, FL. Tallahassee will also be celebrating 200…

Read more >

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 reflect the historic places that matter to local communities. The program is designed to increase the public’s awareness of the urgent need to save Florida’s…

Read more >

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 Main Street Conference, co-hosted by the Florida Trust and the Florida Main Street program. Award nominations were made by the public with recipients selected by…

Read more >

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 behind-the-scenes tour! Join us for Tuesday Trivia on social media every week for a chance to win an Insider’s Tour: Tampa ticket AND a hotel…

Read more >

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 31. Nominate a historic property today. Deadline: The application period for the Division of Historical Resources Small Matching Grants and Special Category Grants for fiscal…

Read more >

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 army nurse in U.S. history. Susie King Taylor was born into slavery in Liberty County, Georgia. Determined to gain an education despite Georgia’s harsh laws…

Read more >

  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 Downtown Jacksonville. Established in 1869, its walkable streets, inviting front porches, eclectic architecture and relative affordability attracted us to live. With that decision came questions…

Read more >

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 property today.   Florida Trust is now hiring a Development Director to steward the organization’s development program. Learn more and apply!   The National Trust…

Read more >