Historic Savannah Foundation Launches Endangered Places Initiative

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Encroaching nature on a neglected historic building exemplifies the urgency of preservation efforts in Savannah.

News Summary

The Historic Savannah Foundation has announced its first list of at-risk historic buildings through the Endangered Places initiative to raise awareness and protect properties threatened by neglect and development. Six properties in Chatham County have been identified, including LePageville Memorial Cemetery and Nicholson Baptist Church. The initiative invites community involvement in recognizing significant structures for future preservation. This effort coincides with HSF’s 70th anniversary and aims to foster ongoing conversations about the importance of heritage conservation in Savannah.

Savannah has taken a significant step towards preserving its historical heritage as the Historic Savannah Foundation (HSF) has announced its inaugural list of at-risk historic buildings under its recently launched Endangered Places initiative. This initiative aims to raise awareness and advocate for the protection of properties that are at risk of demolition, neglect, or inappropriate development.

The Spring 2025 list highlights six properties in Chatham County that are currently threatened. These buildings are under serious risk due to various factors, including neglect, lack of maintenance, and insensitive public policies. The six properties identified for this first list are:

LePageville Memorial Cemetery (c.1885): This cemetery serves as an important burial ground for at least 500 individuals and holds historical significance linked to Brewton Hill Plantation, as well as the Battle of Brewton Hill during the American Revolutionary War.
Nicholson Baptist Church (c.1870-1890): Established in 1850 and recognized for its cultural importance to the Nicholsonboro community, this church was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979.
The Roche Walker House (c.1891): Originally constructed for Florence M. Roche, this structure is a significant example of Savannah’s rich architectural history and underwent modifications in 1959.
John B. Berry House (c.1856): This Italianate-style residence contributes to Savannah’s National Historic Landmark District but has unfortunately experienced neglect over the years.
Station 6 Firehouse (c.1900): Designed by W. M. Armitage, this fire station operated until 1983 and has since been converted into a private residence.
Isaiah Davenport Tenement House (c.1814): Linked to its master builder, Isaiah Davenport, this property has significant importance in the architectural narrative of Savannah.

Involving the community, HSF invited local residents to nominate properties they felt were of architectural, cultural, or historical significance for consideration in the Endangered Places program. The initiative aspires to foster ongoing conversations about preservation and engage the public in recognizing and addressing the importance of maintaining these historic sites.

To qualify for nomination, properties must be at least 50 years old, demonstrate historical or architectural significance, and be under serious threat. The nomination period remains open throughout the year, encouraging ongoing participation from community members.

This announcement aligns with HSF’s 70th anniversary and was accompanied by a special awards ceremony that recognized outstanding contributions to preservation efforts in Savannah and Chatham County. During the ceremony, Brian Felder was named Volunteer of the Year for his dedication to historic preservation in the region. The event also highlighted preserved properties that contribute positively to Savannah’s quality of life.

The Endangered Places initiative mirrors other similar programs, such as the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation’s Places in Peril, emphasizing the importance of continuous advocacy for preservation. Through these efforts, HSF hopes to prevent further decline of these significant structures, ensuring that Savannah’s rich history is safeguarded for future generations.

Community members are encouraged to suggest properties in need of recognition as part of HSF’s ongoing mission to promote preservation. By highlighting these at-risk buildings, the Historic Savannah Foundation seeks to encourage action and increase community involvement in protecting Savannah’s unique architectural and cultural heritage.