Tax Credit Workshop & 2026 Preservation Awards
A Promising New Year for Preservation
Happy New Year from Blue Grass Trust!
The start of a new year always brings a sense of possibility, and at Blue Grass Trust, January is a time to reflect on our mission while looking ahead to what’s to come. In 2026, we’re excited to build on our momentum through continued preservation efforts, new projects, and deeper connections with our community. Thanks to the support of our members and partners, we enter the year energized and ready to embrace the opportunities ahead.
One of the highlights already shaping the early months of the year is the ongoing restoration work at Latrobe’s Pope Villa. Over the winter, we are welcoming—through a partnership with Washington, DC–based preservation developer Mitchell Park—the architectural team of MCWB. Led by Jeff Baker, the MCWB team is conducting early documentation of the structure in advance of restoration work. This important phase of stewardship focuses on careful planning and research to ensure the long-term preservation of this extraordinary landmark.
Stay tuned for updates as this, and our many other important preservation projects, unfold throughout 2026!
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 February 2026 deTour: Millersburg
See How Historic Tax Credits Bring Buildings Back to Life!
Be sure to tune in for our February virtual deTour “Preservation in Practice: A Virtual deTour of Millersburg!” This special online deTour will take viewers inside several historic 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’ll be joined by Joe Pierson of Pinion Heritage Advisors & Representatives, who will help guide us through these projects, offering insight into both the architectural significance of the buildings and how historic tax credits enabled these rehabilitations. Participants will gain a clearer understanding of how these incentives function within a larger financing framework for preservation projects.
This virtual deTour pairs perfectly with our upcoming Historic Tax Credit Workshop, making it an ideal opportunity to see real-world projects while learning how to leverage tax credits as part of a successful preservation effort.
Millersburg Virtual deTour
Wednesday, February 4th
6:00 PM
January 2026 deTour Recap
The Valley View Ferry
For our first virtual deTour of the year, viewers crossed the Kentucky River aboard the Valley View Ferry, Kentucky’s oldest continuously operating business, which has been running since 1780.
Founded by Revolutionary War veteran John Craig, the ferry was granted a permanent franchise in 1785. Famous passengers over the years included Daniel Boone, Henry Clay, and Ulysses S. Grant. After more than 200 years of private ownership, it became a joint effort of Fayette, Madison, and Jessamine counties in 1991.
Today, the ferry operates by cables stretched between four 55-foot towers and carries up to three cars at a time. Funded by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, it remains free to the public and transports cars daily. See both the history and present-day operation of this enduring Kentucky landmark below!
ADVOCACY
Call for Preservation Awards Nominations
Celebrate Central Kentucky’s Preservation Leaders!
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.
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 our website for more information and to submit your nomination.
Photo by Adam Lewis, December 2025
EKU Demolishes Historic Walker House
Richmond’s Preservation Community Mobilizes for Accountability and Change
Two days before Christmas, Eastern Kentucky University – without any prior announcement or explanation – razed the J. Stone Walker House, one of Richmond’s grandest Italianate residences. Since 2020, numerous private parties in Richmond had attempted to purchase the house, but EKU was either noncommittal or evasive.
On Friday, December 19th, one of our associates in Richmond notified us of its possible demolition; we then requested a meeting with EKU’s chief campus operations officer and CFO but received no replies. However, we will soon be meeting with EKU’s chief communications officer to discuss the university’s stewardship of the Walker House and its rationale for the building’s removal. On January 11th, Dr. Leonard attended a community meeting in Richmond; those present sought to hold EKU accountable for the (mis)management of its historic properties and – on a broader level – reinvigorate the preservation movement within the city and county. A follow-up strategy session is scheduled for Sunday, January 25th at 2 pm (location in Richmond to be announced). Please consider joining us at this important meeting and do visit our social media pages for updates on our advocacy efforts.
Advocacy in Action!
Dr. Zak Leonard’s powerful op-ed, “Don’t destroy the historic, affordable housing options that benefit Lexington,” in the Herald-Leader examines the critical balance between development and preservation in Lexington's urban core. Read about last November’s Council victory and what's at stake for our historic neighborhoods as development pressures continue to mount.
DIRECT SERVICES
Preservation Professionals Directory:
Your Resource for Historic Projects
Looking for skilled craftspeople and contractors who understand historic buildings? The Blue Grass Trust's Preservation Professionals Directory connects property owners with experienced professionals who specialize in the maintenance, restoration, and rehabilitation of historic structures using traditional construction methods.
Whether you need a mason who works with historic brick, a carpenter skilled in wood window repair, an interior designer who specializes in historic spaces, or an architect experienced in adaptive reuse, our free online directory is designed to help you find the right expertise for your project.
Are you a preservation professional? We invite contractors, artisans, architects, engineers, and other service providers with experience in historic preservation to join our directory. It's a great way to connect with property owners who value quality craftsmanship and traditional methods. Click the link below to see the directory and add your listing today.
Remembering Tom Moore
The Blue Grass Trust is saddened to learn of the passing of our dear friend and devoted preservationist, Tom Moore.
Tom served the Blue Grass Trust in countless ways over the years, from the early days of his involvement delivering BGT plaques in his famous single-cab tan Tacoma to eventually serving as a board member, Treasurer, and longtime Chair of the Pope Villa Committee. He was also a dedicated docent at both Hopemont and Latrobe’s Pope Villa. His tours brought these historic homes to life through his deep knowledge, captivating storytelling that was filled with wit, and genuine love for sharing his passion for historic preservation. In recognition of his extraordinary service, Tom gave tirelessly to every role he held and was honored with the Dot Crutcher Volunteer Award in 2017. Upon learning of this recognition, Tom, true-to-form, quipped, “It’s not going to be a whole thing, is it?” Reflecting not only his humility but also his dedication to the often unseen work to support the Blue Grass Trust.
The Blue Grass Trust will remember Tom as someone who loved his community, was a generous spirit, and was always willing to step up to do the work that makes preservation possible.
If you would like to see what a tour with Tom was like, please click the link below for footage from when C-Span visited Latrobe’s Pope Villa.
