Expanding Preservation’s Promise in Kentucky
Our Mission is Growing and So Is Our Team!
Announcing a New Position - Coordinator of African American Preservation
The Coordinator of African American Preservation is a new senior position dedicated to bridging community outreach and historic preservation practice. As Kentucky's first full-time preservationist focused specifically on African American heritage, this role will be central to building long-term relationships with a diverse array of communities, helping to identify and preserve African American cultural landmarks, and advancing a more inclusive preservation movement across the Commonwealth. Funded by a transformative Mellon Foundation grant, the Coordinator will work closely with Central Kentucky's grassroots preservationists, partner organizations, and preservation professionals.
We are reviewing applications starting April 1, 2026 on a rolling basis until the position is filled, with an expected start date of July 1, 2026. Learn more about this exciting position and how to apply below
EDUCATION
Planning to revitalize a historic property? Discover how Historic Tax Credits can help fund your project at our FREE virtual workshop in partnership with the Kentucky Heritage Council.
Whether you're a building owner, developer, or simply curious about preservation incentives, this workshop will show you how to qualify and make the most of valuable tax credits—including the three-part application process, eligibility requirements, and expectations for appropriate rehabilitations!
Upcoming March 2026 Virtual deTour
Elm Bend in Woodford County, KY
Tune in on March 4 for our final Virtual deTour of the season as we explore the history and remnants of Elm Bend, a rural community in southern Woodford County that once played an important role in Central Kentucky’s agricultural and social landscape.
Although Elm Bend no longer exists as a formal town, historic homes, farm structures, landscape features, and a small community cemetery remain, offering a powerful window into the lives, labor, and legacies of the families who lived and worked there in the mid-twentieth century.
We’re excited to partner with the University of Kentucky’s Monuments Workshop to uncover the stories of often-overlooked sites of memory and conflict. This deTour will shine a light on one such site and the vital work being done with community partners to document, interpret, and restore its significance.
Elm Bend Virtual deTour
Wednesday, March 4th
6:00 PM.
February 2026 deTour Recap
Millersburg, KY
On February 1, we explored several Millersburg structures that have been thoughtfully restored using historic tax credits as part of their redevelopment strategy, highlighting how preservation and progress can go hand in hand.
We were joined by Joe Pierson of Pinion Heritage Advisors & Representatives, who helped guide us through these projects, offering insight into both the architectural significance of the buildings and how historic tax credits enabled these rehabilitations. Participants gained a clearer understanding of how these incentives function within a larger financing framework for preservation projects.
This virtual deTour paired perfectly with our Historic Tax Credit Workshop, making it an ideal opportunity for attendees to see real-world projects while learning how to leverage tax credits as part of a successful preservation effort.
ADVOCACY
Photo by Kopana Terry
Call for Preservation Awards Nominations
Introducing the Student Research Award!
The Blue Grass Trust is now accepting nominations for our annual Preservation Awards, recognizing the individuals, organizations, and projects that are making historic preservation a vital force in Central Kentucky. These awards celebrate the passionate advocates and dedicated stewards who protect our region's architectural heritage and promote the value of preservation in our communities.
New this year: we're excited to introduce the Student Research Award, honoring outstanding scholarly or creative work related to historic preservation within the Bluegrass region by undergraduate or graduate students enrolled at Central Kentucky colleges and universities. Submissions may include research papers, GIS studies, podcasts, exhibits, and other digitally accessible projects.
Do you know someone whose work deserves recognition? Self-nominations are welcome, and the deadline to submit is February 27th at 5:00 pm EST. Award recipients will be honored at our Preservation Awards ceremony on Sunday, May 17, 2026, at the historic Dr. Thomas Hunt Morgan House in Lexington. Visit the link below for more information and to submit your nomination!
DEMOLITION ALERT!
White Hall, a highly significant residence at 4690 Old Richmond Road, may soon be the victim of a house flip gone awry. Constructed in 1848 by Reverend Joseph Bullock, it served as the dormitory for the renowned Walnut Hill Female Institute and is a rare regional example of a frame Greek Revival dwelling. Additional information on Bullock’s illustrious career and the building’s later owners is available on our “Historic Property Research” webpage under “Walnut Hill Presbyterian Church.”
In 1956, the Dean family acquired White Hall and remained its owners until late 2025, when Goldenrod Investments (713 Cumberland Road, Lexington, KY, 40503) bought the property at auction for $858,880. Goldenrod Investments had indicated that they were intending to rehabilitate White Hall, but we heard rumors last week that a tear-down was imminent despite the lack of a proper permit. The Blue Grass Trust contacted the city’s preservation and building inspection offices, and the latter required Goldenrod Investments to apply for a demolition permit that includes the main residence. Preservation staff will now likely put a 30-day hold on the demolition to conduct document work.
Within this narrow window, we are calling on our supporters to write Goldenrod Investments at the address above and advocate for the rehabilitation—or resale—of White Hall. Help us save this irreplaceable treasure!
DIRECT SERVICES
Preservation in Action at St. Paul AME Church
How Nonprofits Can Benefit from Historic Tax Credits
Did you know that nonprofits can also claim state rehabilitation tax credits? Recently, Lexington's historic St. Paul AME Church commissioned our Professional Consulting Services to complete their three-part tax credit application. The church is seeking reimbursement for qualified expenses that include the reconstruction of the rear concrete stairwell, structural reinforcement of the sanctuary floor, plaster work, HVAC upgrades, and other urgent tasks.
Upon receiving the tax credit, the church will then syndicate (essentially, sell) it to a Kentucky-based financial institution. We are delighted to report that the Kentucky Heritage Council already has approved the church's work plan, and we will continue to provide updates on this vital project. For more information on our tax credit consulting services, please visit the link below!
