Why Preserve?

“Lexington’s Future Hinges on a Past Well Preserved.” You may have seen this motto on HLF bumper stickers around town. But have you considered what it means, and what it takes to achieve “a past well preserved”? Historic Lexington Foundation was established in 1966 by bold, forward-thinking leaders, to identify and support historic preservation needs in Lexington that other organizations and individuals would not or could not meet. HLF and its supporters have achieved much over the years, and there is still much to do. 

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The entire Rockbridge area is rich in history and historic places—places that have provided shelter, work, respite, and community, places with enormous, often untapped potential. They are tangible reminders of our diverse and shared histories, and they are irreplaceable. Unfortunately, many historic places in our community are threatened by neglect, damaged by inappropriate change, or lost to redevelopment. 

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Change may be inevitable, but change need not dictate abandoning our historic and cultural resources. Today, HLF programs promote preservation activity in Lexington and throughout the Rockbridge area, securing important properties for our present and future. HLF has proven to be a wise steward of the resources entrusted to us over the years, and our legacy of “a past well-preserved” will thrive, so long as HLF receives support from community-minded individuals, families, organizations, and businesses. Your investment will allow HLF to continue to provide and grow our community-focused services, including:

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• Educational programs and publications, such as the architecture of historic Lexington and the architecture of historic Rockbridge

• Grants for preservation projects, such as façade improvements, structural repairs to deteriorated historic properties, tombstone conservation, 

• Advocacy and technical assistance to encourage elected officials, institutions, and property owners to prioritize preservation goals when decision making

• Property acquisitions and preservation easements– over 20 properties protected to date, most recently the old stone house at 708 North Main street

• Public-private partnerships, such as Hopkins Green, the Miller’s house at Jordan’s Point, historical markers, and more