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Historic Savannah Foundation Launches Endangered Places Initiative

An example of the historic architecture at risk in Savannah.

News Summary

The Historic Savannah Foundation has announced its first list of at-risk historic buildings, part of the Endangered Places initiative, aimed at preserving vital properties in Savannah. Coinciding with its 70th anniversary, this program encourages local nominations of significant sites facing neglect or demolition. Six properties in Chatham County have been identified for preservation support, highlighting the urgent need for community engagement and activism to protect Savannah’s historical legacy.

Savannah, Georgia – The Historic Savannah Foundation (HSF) has unveiled its inaugural list of at-risk historic buildings as part of its new Endangered Places initiative, marking a significant effort to preserve important properties within the region. This announcement coincides with HSF’s 70th anniversary and the celebration of National Preservation Month in May 2025.

Launched in January 2025, the Endangered Places program invites community members to nominate properties that hold local architectural, cultural, or historical significance but are at risk of demolition, neglect, or inappropriate development. This initiative, reflecting the model of the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation’s Places in Peril program, aims to rally community support and awareness around these endangered sites.

The Spring 2025 list comprises six properties located within Chatham County that face various threats, including deteriorating conditions and lack of adequate maintenance. Each property on the list is at least 50 years old and has been identified as having significant historical or architectural value to the local community.

The properties included in the Spring 2025 Endangered Places list are:

LePageville Memorial Cemetery (c.1885) – This cemetery, which has around 500 burials, experiences severe neglect and overgrowth, leading to its use for encampments and litter. It is currently maintained by a grassroots organization that is struggling to sustain its efforts.
Nicholson Baptist Church (c.1870-1890) – Recognized by the Georgia Historical Society, this church has historical ties to formerly enslaved Africans who migrated to the area. The aging congregation faces challenges in funding for maintenance, leading to the property’s deterioration.
Roche Walker House (c.1891) – A vacant historic Victorian house that has suffered from years of neglect. This property is geographically significant as it represents the once vibrant Victorian streetscape of Savannah.
John B. Berry House (c.1856) – This example of Italianate-style architecture is crucial to Savannah’s national historic landmark district but is experiencing deferred maintenance. The current owner is reportedly developing rehabilitation plans.
Station 6 Firehouse (c.1900) – Formerly a firehouse until 1983, this structure is now a private residence facing issues related to deferred maintenance and damage caused by hurricanes, including chipping paint and overgrown vegetation.
Isaiah Davenport Tenement House (c.1814) – Associated with the renowned master builder Isaiah Davenport, this property is essential to Savannah’s historical narrative but requires repairs for flaking paint and broken windows.

The nomination process for the Endangered Places list will remain open throughout the year, encouraging ongoing community engagement and support for preservation initiatives. Individuals in Savannah are urged to actively participate by nominating additional properties that could benefit from preservation attention.

All properties included in the Endangered Places list face serious threats to their historical, architectural, or archaeological integrity, underscoring the urgency of community activism and involvement. HSF emphasizes the importance of addressing preservation needs proactively rather than waiting until properties are on the verge of demolition or abandonment.

As part of its efforts to raise awareness and foster community involvement, HSF will announce additional Endangered Places lists and nominations through its social media channels, inviting the public to stay informed and engaged in the preservation of Savannah’s historical legacy.