Some of the most exciting development happening in the Knoxville region today has its roots in preserving historic buildings, open spaces and communities.
Historic preservation is a blend of history and real estate that sparks intense debate as a community tries to preserve its heritage, define its physical character and chart its future direction. At the root of all preservation issues is a community conversation about what is important and what is worth saving. Sometimes consensus is found easily, but in most cases the answers are not so clear and heated debate will often erupt.
The discussion usually includes politics, real estate, architecture, redevelopment, history, money, conservation, and both urban and rural planning. That makes it the most interesting conversation most communities will ever have about their future and they do it by talking about their past.
My job as the executive director of Knox Heritage is endlessly fascinating because preservation touches so many people, places and issues. In this blog I will share what I find as I explore the region's past and work with the people engaged in deciding its future. Here of some the things you can expect:
