Preserving and keeping alive our cultural history are vital to knowing who we are as a community and as a society. Especially in this community where we are blessed with roots going back a quarter of a millennium. It is how we transmit our essential values to our young people and to future generations.

--Linwood Davis

Historic Forsyth County Library

PHF Board has taken the position that the original portion of the Forsyth Public Library should be considered for it historic significance. Designed by noted local architect Luther Lashmit the building was at the forefront of contemporary design when it was built in 1953 and used the highest quality materials. While we don't have any position on the location of the library, the reuse of the original building should be considered by the library or a subsequent tenant. Some of the issues raised about the building, such as being 'dingy' looking, appear to be largely deferred maintenance.

According to published reports, the property was a gift for a public Library and would return to ownership of the Z. Smith Reynolds if they do leave the property.

Representatives from PHF attended the first two meetings this past week and another public input meeting will be on March 6 at the new WS/FC Career Center at 6pm. You can view a video about other nearby new library and make comments online.

Essay Contest starting!

We are starting a new contest this year, of ideas on how to use historic preservation to improve our community. Prizes will be awarded for the top three entries: $200 for first place, $100 for second place, and $50 for third place.  See the details and rules on the Essay Contest page at the top tab.

Membership event

Here's some images from the Bethania Membership event in December.

We were part of National Weatherization Day!

About 4 of the volunteers helping on National Weatherization Day for the Sunnyside neighborhood were from Preserve Historic Forysth. We want to help the historic neighborhood and encourage appropriate measures that don't destroy the historic character of the homes being modified.

2011 Heritage Awards

Here, thanks to Alison Banther of AllyB Photography and Patti Sturdy are images from the 2011 Heritage Awards!

George Black House and Brickyard Unanimously Approved

The Winston-Salem City Council unanimously approved the George Black House and Brickyard as a Local Historic Landmark at their October 17 meeting. There was no opposition, and former City Council member Evelyn Terry gave a strong statement during the public hearing in support of the need for historic preservation as an economic development tool!

2011 Heritage Awards

We had an great event with over 200 attendees. The keynote by Josh Rogers was an eye opening address giving the details and economic rationale for preservation as a fundamental community development tool. We plan to release more details of the talk at some point. The various winners were announced and will be detailed here over the next few weeks, so stay tuned!

Thanks to all the nominees, attendees, and supporters that came out for a rainy but great evening.