May is National Preservation Month!

 

BY LESA.LORUSSO ON MAY 9, 2012 IN 

One of Florida’s historical gems: Lincoln Theater, Miami Beach, FL. Photo by Lesa Lorusso

Hey Floridians, May is National Preservation Month! This year’s theme is “Discover America’s Hidden Gems.”

The National Trust for Historic Preservation instituted “Preservation Week” in 1971 to spotlight grassroots preservation efforts in America and has since grown into a yearly celebration observed by small towns and big cities alike with events ranging from architectural and historic tours, award ceremonies, fundraising events, educational programs and heritage travel opportunities. In May 2005 National Trust for Historic Preservation extended the celebration through the entire month, thus providing more opportunities to celebrate the diverse and unique heritage of our country’s cities and states and enable more Americans to become involved in the growing preservation movement.

Florida’s Governor Scott and Lt. Governor Carroll attended an event in Tallahassee on Thursday, May 3, 2012 to celebrate National Preservation Month and officially declare May to be Historic Preservation month in the state of Florida. Citizens gathered for this event at the newly restored 1902 Rotunda of the Historic Capitol in Tallahassee, FL which is a beautiful example of historic preservation itself with its newly restored copper dome and cupola roof.

In honor of this special month, we at the Florida Historical Society encourage our fellow Floridians to seek out activities in the community that support our country’s historic treasures. There is so much to explore! Stay tuned to this blog for continual articles on hidden historical gems here in Florida and take the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s advice and do the following:

  • Plan special tours of little-known historic sites.
  • Engage volunteers interested in contributing to a local preservation project.
  • Compile a photo archive of the hidden gems in your community.
  • Plot out walking and driving tours of the finest historic places in your town or city.
  • Encourage residents and visitors to share the gems they have discovered on your website or via social media.
  • Schedule lectures, films and slide shows about places saved and threatened.
  • Attract new supporters for local preservation projects and the ongoing work of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

Do your part to make sure that our nation’s treasures will be preserved for future generations by spreading the word about National Preservation Month.

Learn more about National Preservation Month

Learn more about the Florida Historic Capitol Museum

Learn more about historic Lincoln Theatre in Miami Beach, FL

Source:

  1. Hubbard, Alma P. Rotunda Rendezvous marks preservation month. Tallahassee.com Special to The Chronicle, Tallahassee, FL 2012.