Video: Historical Preservation Group Seeks Members, Funds To Save Old Properties

[syndicaster id=’6025191′]

TUPELO, MISS. (WCBI) – A renewed effort is underway in one Northeast Mississippi city to preserve and restore historical buildings and landmarks.
As WCBI’s Allie Martin tells us, organizers of the effort are looking for others to join their cause and help keep history alive.

On a recent afternoon, Mary Connor Victoria was preparing to host a meeting of the Tupelo Historic Preservation Society.

“We’re trying to let Tupelo know that there is a value in our historic preservation sites,” said Board Member Katie Wright.

The location of the group’s meeting was no accident. On April 28 2014, Mary Connor’s home, built in 1910, was nearly destroyed by the tornado.

“A big oak tree fell across the front half of the house, basically destroying my bedroom and this room , the living room,” Victoria said.

After months of repairs, renovation and restoration, the home is in excellent condition and members of the preservation society want to do whatever it takes to save other historical homes and businesses for future generations.

“To do that we need people, and resources, meaning money,” said Tish Horton, Board President.

So, the non profit group is welcoming new members, and they are also establishing a revolving fund. That money will be used to purchase historical properties that may be destined for the wrecking ball. The property would be sold to a builder or investor with all proceeds going back into the revolving fund for future purchases.

“Bottom line is losing our historical significance, and when you think about historical significance, you think about all the factory workers in Mill Village, the people who brought us to where we are.,” Horton said.

Board members say preserving historical architecture has many advantages and should not be delayed.

“There are studies done, that communities that preserve the past, and are active in researching their history and preserving it, it really helps their economies,” Victoria said.

“I think we are in the perfect stage to build our infrastructure, and our footing for the preservation, of not only the homes, but like I said, the textile mills downtown, or a small shop that is nothing but a brick building, it was built in the 20s and it’s still standing, why should we be the ones to knock it down,” Wright said.

The Historic Preservation Society will have its offices in the historic Spain House. That project should be complete by 2018.

For more information about the society, you can email Trish Horton at mstish2000@aol.com