A landmark African Methodist Episcopal Church, a “poor farm” known for its adobe structures, two sites linked to the heyday of the railroad in Texas, a homestead that was part of a Freedom Colony, and two historic courthouses are among the eight sites that Preservation Texas, Inc. has named to its twelfth annual list of Texas’ Most Endangered Places.

“The 2015 list is a diverse group of sites that reflect the range of preservation issues that historic places throughout the state are confronting,” said Evan Thompson, executive director of Preservation Texas.  “These sites reflect the importance of continued funding for the Texas Historic Courthouse Restoration program and the Texas Heritage Trails program.  Also, several demonstrate the potential impact of the new state historic preservation tax credit as an incentive for saving endangered sites.”

The sites on the 2015 list represent cultural, architectural and historic places that are at risk, and represent the types of sites that are endangered across Texas.  Local grassroots organizations have been working tirelessly in support of these sites.  By including them on the list, Preservation Texas hopes to rally Texans statewide to step up and save them.

Historic preservation has a $4.6 billion economic impact in Texas.  Historic sites named to the list of Texas’ Most Endangered Places represent some of the best opportunities to make a positive economic impact on local communities through preservation, particularly through the use of the new state historic preservation tax credit.  

Preservation Texas supports sites on its Most Endangered Places List providing advocacy support, publicity and assistance and assistance in fostering and building community partnerships.

Thompson noted that the sites included on the 2015 list reflect increased awareness of the importance of historic preservation in supporting landmarks in smaller communities.  “Passion and determination in these communities are strong, and will benefit from sound land use planning, coupled with increased financial resources and professional guidance,” he said.