HBCUs Get $10.67M To Preserve Historic Landmarks

The National Park Service (NPS) has awarded $10.67 million to 15 projects across eight states under the Historic Preservation Fund’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) grant program. 

This initiative is dedicated to repairing historic structures on HBCU campuses, ensuring that the sites are preserved for future generations.

Preserving Historic HBCU Landmarks

The grants will support the restoration of several significant buildings, such as Simmons College’s Steward Hall, Delaware State University’s Hope House, and Cheyney University of Pennsylvania’s Melrose Cottage. 

Simmons College, the only private HBCU in Kentucky, will use the funds to rehabilitate Steward Hall, built in 1924 by renowned Black architect and alumnus Samuel Plato. 

The project will include window and door repairs, foundation work, and tuckpointing. 

Delaware State University’s Hope House, a historic Queen Anne-style building, will undergo rehabilitation to address structural and water damage issues. 

Meanwhile, Cheyney University’s Melrose Cottage, dating back to 1785, will be transformed into a welcoming center for campus tours and admissions, with updates to its electrical systems and accessibility features.

Funding the Future of Historic Preservation

The HBCU grant program, funded through the Historic Preservation Fund (HPF), uses revenue from federal oil and gas leases on the Outer Continental Shelf. 

This approach ensures that the preservation of irreplaceable cultural resources is financed without expending tax dollars. 

Since its inception in 1977, the HPF has distributed over $2 billion in grants to states, tribes, local governments, and nonprofit organizations for a variety of preservation projects.

“It’s vital for America’s HBCUs to preserve their vibrant history, ensuring that the places and the events that happened there are not forgotten,” stated NPS Director Chuck Sams in a press release.

“I’m proud that the National Park Service can support this locally-led stewardship.”