Preserving History

This year only 19 of 42 applicants were awarded grants from the Vermont Division for Historic Preservation's Grant Program, and two of the 19 are just around the corner (the West Burke United Methodist Church and the St. Johnsbury Athenaeum).

In order for a building to receive such an award it must first be on the National Register of Historic Places (or eligible for listing) and approved by the Vermont Advisory Council on Historic Preservation.  According to Wendy Hansen, the Athenaeum will put the money received towards an energy project that will benefit the protection of the beautiful art collection housed within the historic walls.  Preserving these structures is important to not only the enhancement of the tourism industry, but also the maintenance of Vermont's character.