Author Archive

[Slideshow] From Wild to Whimsical: The Gargoyles and Grotesques of Washington National Cathedral

Posted on: May 20th, 2013 by National Trust for Historic Preservation 1 Comment

By Linda S. Glisson, Assistant Director for Information Resources, Main Street

Washington National Cathedral

As a passionate photographer and preservationist, I’m always on the lookout for fascinating buildings, from the funky to the sublime. Washington National Cathedral, winner of this year’s Partners in Preservation contest and also one of our National Treasures, is definitely the latter.

From the light streaming through stained glass windows and bathing the interior in a rainbow glow to the fantastical creatures that adorn the outside, National Cathedral is a photographer’s dream. Every time I visit I discover something new. And no wonder: There are 112 gargoyles, the last completed in 1987, and more than 3,000 grotesques and other architectural carvings.... Read More →

National Trust for Historic Preservation

The National Trust for Historic Preservation, a privately funded non-profit organization, works to save America's historic places.

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Skee’s Diner: A Slice of Americana in Progress

Posted on: May 9th, 2013 by National Trust for Historic Preservation 1 Comment

Written by Mallory Somerset, Preservation Intern

Skee’s Diner in Torrington, Conn., c. 2008

The American dining car evokes a mid-century nostalgia like nothing else. Perhaps the most recognizable (though not necessarily by name) are dining cars manufactured by the Jerry O’Mahony Company between 1917 and 1941.

Stand-alone Streamline Moderne coaches were manufactured in a factory in New Jersey and brought by flatbed to their final destinations across the States. They had model names like “Victory” and “Monarch” and were built to last 30 years, according to the brochures. Though details such as length and roof shape differ with each model, the interiors are almost identical, and it is this assembly-line sheen of uniformity that give the O’Mahony diners their appeal to vintage diner enthusiasts even today.... Read More →

National Trust for Historic Preservation

The National Trust for Historic Preservation, a privately funded non-profit organization, works to save America's historic places.

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The Curtain Rises Again for the Culpeper State Theatre

Posted on: May 8th, 2013 by National Trust for Historic Preservation 1 Comment

Written by Erica Stewart, Manager, Public Affairs

The State Theatre of Culpeper before and after renovation

After sitting vacant for almost a decade, the 1938 Art Deco State Theatre of Culpeper, Va., is back in business.

For years, the theatre sat abandoned, coming perilously close to demolition before being purchased by Culpeper natives Greg and Liz Yates. At the time, there was a hole in the ceiling near the stage and the building was seriously dilapidated. But thanks to a committed group of community members, led by the State Theater Foundation, a $9.3 million historic rehabilitation has raised the curtain on the former vaudeville and movie house, revealing a gorgeous 560-seat live theatre.... Read More →

National Trust for Historic Preservation

The National Trust for Historic Preservation, a privately funded non-profit organization, works to save America's historic places.

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Joe Frazier’s Gym Now Listed on the National Register

Posted on: May 2nd, 2013 by National Trust for Historic Preservation No Comments

Big news today from one of our National Treasures: Joe Frazier's Gym, a modest space in Philadelphia where Smokin' Joe perfected his punch, has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

This listing marks an important milestone for the preservationists -- including Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia, the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Heritage Consulting Group, and Temple University -- who have been working for 18 months to save the gym and breathe new life into this historic site.... Read More →

National Trust for Historic Preservation

The National Trust for Historic Preservation, a privately funded non-profit organization, works to save America's historic places.

More Posts (881)

Announcing the Great American Main Street Award Winners for 2013

Posted on: April 14th, 2013 by National Trust for Historic Preservation

Written by Erica Stewart, Public Affairs Manager

Ocean Springs, Mississippi, and Rochester, Michigan celebrate their Main Streets. Credits: Ben Muldrow; Steve Kovacs
Ocean Springs, Miss. (l.) and Rochester, Mich. (r.) celebrate their Main Streets.

We all know a great Main Street when we see it. Maybe it offers abundant antique shops and a second-hand bookstore or two. Perhaps it is awash in art galleries and trendy restaurants, or overflowing with edgy coffee shops and funky clothing stores. In fact, it might offer all of these things -- plus shady trees, easily navigable streets, jazzy festivals, and eclectic historic storefronts.

But what isn’t as evident beyond those inviting streetscapes is the Main Street organization that in many cases made it possible. Neither the casual tourist nor the regular shopper probably knows much about the work of the Main Street organization’s staff and loyal volunteers, its board of directors, and its coordinating program at the city, county or state level.... Read More →