Monday, March 16 2009

Preservation Virginia is accepting nominations for its 2009 Virginia's Most Endangered Historic Sites list. The list is issued annually to raise awareness of Virginia's historic sites at risk from neglect, deterioration, lack of maintenance, insufficient funds, inappropriate development or insensitive public policy.

Virginia's Most Endangered Sites list has served as a powerful wake-up call since 2000, alerting people to historic treasures in trouble and serving as a catalyst in the effort to save them," said Elizabeth Kostelny, Executive Director of Preservation Virginia. "This list has helped bring valuable attention to some very significant pieces of Virginia's heritage, -- but our work is far from done. Important historic sites are still in danger, and we must continue to protect the places that tell Virginia’s story, and ultimately America’s story."

The list has brought widespread attention to significant buildings, sites, landscapes and architectural features. At times, that attention has garnered public support to quickly rescue a treasured landmark; while in other instances, it has served as the catalyst of a long battle to save an important piece of Virginia's history.
Deadline for consideration is Friday April 24th at 5 p.m. Questions regarding potential submissions may be directed to Louis Malon, Director of Preservation services. 804-648-1889, x 307, lmalon@apva.org.

Among the many sites that have been listed in the past are: the Interstate 81 Corridor/ Shenandoah Valley, the City of Danville, Cedar Creek Battlefield/Belle Grove Plantation, Fort Monroe, and the Grandma Moses House. Descriptions of all the 2008 Eleven Most Endangered listings can be found here: http://www.preservationvirginia.org/pressroom/press_release.php?pr_id=71.

To submit a nomination for consideration for the upcoming 2009 Virginia's Most Endangered Historic Sites list go to: http://www.preservationvirginia.org/calendar/endangered_sites_2009.php. The 2009 list will be announced in May.

About Preservation Virginia

Preservation Virginia, a private non-profit organization and statewide historic preservation leader founded in 1889, is dedicated to perpetuating and revitalizing Virginia's cultural, architectural and historic heritage thereby ensuring that historic places are integral parts of the lives of present and future generations. Our mission is directly consistent with and supportive of Article XI of the Constitution of Virginia, benefiting both the Commonwealth and the nation. Preservation Virginia provides leadership, experience, influence, and services to the public and special audiences by saving, managing, and protecting historic places, and developing preservation policy, programs, and strategies with individuals, organizations, and local, state, and national partners.

Press Contact:
Tina Calhoun
Preservation Virginia
804-648-1889, x316
tcalhoun@preservationvirginia.org