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:
Lost Knoxville Found - History and images of historic places we have lost.
A Little Innocent Trespassing - I often go exploring and end up in the most interesting places - both familiar and obscure. I will share photos of the locations and background information.
Reconstruction Zone - The will include updates and photos from Knox Heritage construction sites and others around the region I know about and can access.
Politics of Preservation - This will include issues as they are debated at the local, state and federal level.
The Good, The Bad and The Ugly - This is the place to discuss successful projects, endangered places and terribly re-muddled historic buildings. It will include as many photos as I can get.
Nuts and Bolts - Information on preservation tools such as historic zoning, downtown design review, easements, tax credits, etc.
Down in the Districts - Topics of interest in the historic neighborhoods and information on developments that impact them.
To get started, here are some links to essential information about preservation in our community:
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