As the 50th anniversary of the Georgia Trust comes to a close, we reflect on the remarkable projects that have shaped the organization’s legacy. One such endeavor that stands as a testament to preservation and community is the restoration of the Eleanor Roosevelt School in Warm Springs, Georgia. Built in 1936 at the request of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, this historic institution holds a unique place in the heart of Warm Springs and the annals of American history.

Named after the esteemed First Lady, the Eleanor Roosevelt School was the final school constructed under the auspices of the Rosenwald Fund, a pioneering initiative aimed at providing quality school buildings for African American children in the rural South between 1912 and 1936. President Roosevelt’s personal commitment to the project was unwavering, with him personally contributing to its financing and delivering the keynote address at its dedication in 1937.

Until the mid-1960s, the school played a crucial role in educating students from grades one through eight. Unfortunately, it closed its doors in 1972 due to countywide integration. The building, once a beacon of education, saw its windows bricked in, and for many years, it remained silent, a testament to the passing of time.

Recognizing the significance of the Eleanor Roosevelt School, The Georgia Trust listed it on its Places in Peril in 2007. However, the trajectory of neglect took a turn for the better in 2019 when the Trust acquired the property through its Revolving Fund. In 2020 the Georgia Trust found new custodians for the property in DeBron and Voncher Walker, passionate individuals committed to preserving the heritage embedded in the school’s walls.

Earlier this year, the Georgia Trust secured a substantial grant from the National Park Service’s African American Civil Rights program. The grant, amounting to $694,522, is a beacon of support for the rehabilitation of the Eleanor Roosevelt School. The funds are dedicated to securing the site, providing much-needed exterior stabilization, including a new roof, and restoring the windows, doors, and masonry. Moreover, the grant will facilitate the creation of comprehensive architectural drawings, forming the foundation for a preservation plan that envisages the complete rehabilitation and sustainability of the school’s interior spaces.

The momentum for this restoration project was palpable during the well-attended kickoff event this past September at the Eleanor Roosevelt School. Attendees included Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt’s great-grandson, representatives from the Little White House, Eleanor Roosevelt School teachers and alumni, and individuals with a shared commitment to preserving this invaluable piece of history. The collective enthusiasm demonstrated at the event underscores the significance of this undertaking for both the local community and history enthusiasts alike.

As we look forward to the ongoing work scheduled for 2024 and beyond, anticipation builds for the ultimate completion of the property’s rehabilitation. The Eleanor Roosevelt School is not merely a building; it’s a living testament to the commitment of those who have worked tirelessly to ensure its survival. The Georgia Trust, in collaboration with dedicated property owners and the support of the National Park Service, continues to write the next chapter in the school’s storied history.

In celebrating 50 years of preservation and progress, The Georgia Trust proudly embraces the Eleanor Roosevelt School rehabilitation as a symbol of the enduring legacy of historic preservation. The countdown to the school’s renaissance has begun, promising a future where its doors once again open to inspire generations to come.

Support the work of the Georgia Trust and programs like our Places in Peril and Revolving Fund by Becoming a Member today! You can also show your support as we near the end of the 50th anniversary of The Georgia Trust by making a Year-End Gift.

See more about the history of the Georgia Trust on our 50th Anniversary blog Celebrating 50.

UPDATE: November 6, 2024: The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation is now accepting bids for the exterior stabilization and rehabilitation of the Eleanor Roosevelt School in Warm Springs, Ga. Qualified Construction Management professionals are encouraged to review project requirements and submit bids by December 11, 2024, 5 PM. View more information and bid package here. 

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As we wrap up our celebration of our 50th anniversary, our final Legacy Member to be highlighted is longtime supporter Camille Yow!

Camille Yow is not only one of the longest standing Georgia Trust members she is also a dedicated volunteer. The organization’s volunteer of the year award has been given in her name since 1978 and she has created, chaired and/or been a patron to over 50 events for the Trust, raising millions of dollars. Camille is an Emeritus Trustee and continues to serve as an advocate for the Trust and preservation.  

Legacy Members are Georgia Trust Members who have supported the Trust for 10+ years. 

See more about our Legacy Members and the history of the Georgia Trust on our 50th Anniversary blog Celebrating 50.

Support the work of the Georgia Trust by Becoming a Member today! You can also show your support as we come to a close on the 50th anniversary of The Georgia Trust by making a Year-End Gift.

Thank you to all of our supporters for an amazing 50 Years!

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1138 Harwell Street after rehabilitation

As we celebrate the Georgia Trust’s 50th anniversary, we take great pride in highlighting the work of the Trust’s West Atlanta Preservation Initiative. The West Atlanta Preservation Initiative was launched in March of 2018 with the purpose of providing sustainably rehabilitated affordable housing. Following the rehabilitation of each historic home, preservation easements are applied to protect the buildings from demolition and changes to the property that would impact their historic integrity.

This initiative stands out as a testament to the Georgia Trust’s commitment to finding sustainable solutions to fit the preservation needs of Georgians and to preserve the state’s cultural landscape. The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation partnered with the Atlanta Land Trust, a non-profit organization committed to the management of long-term affordable housing, to sell these sustainably rehabilitated homes to buyers who meet a specific income limit. This has provided an opportunity for many first-time homeowners to purchase a property in a historically significant neighborhood that has felt the effects of gentrification, ensuring its long-term affordability. 

785 Coleman Street after rehabilitation

So far, three homes have been rehabilitated and sold under the initiative. Each of these homes is located in a historically significant neighborhood in West Atlanta, which has been home to many notable African American professional and working-class families. Once prominent neighborhoods, these areas have felt the impact of white flight, systemic disinvestment, and now the onset of gentrification. The creation of long-term affordable housing options, that are sustainable and sensitively restored respect the decades of history home to these significant spaces.  

In 2022, the initiative rehabilitated a shotgun home in the historic Pittsburgh neighborhood of Atlanta. The Pittsburgh neighborhood was chartered in 1883 by formerly enslaved people and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Here, many Black-owned businesses flourished, and this area became home to Clark Atlanta University. This neighborhood features architecturally distinctive shotgun homes and bungalows. The rehabilitation of the shotgun home at 785 Coleman Street SW is an exciting addition to the initiative and has been sold to a buyer through the Atlanta Land Trust.  

1575 Mozley Place after rehabilitation

In 2020, the trust completed the rehabilitation of and sold two affordable, single-family homes in West Atlanta. The two houses—located at 1138 Harwell Street, in Washington Park, and 1575 Mozley Place in Mozley Park— were sold through a partnership with the Atlanta Land Trust to ensure permanent affordability to buyers who met qualifying income requirements based on area median income averages. In 2018, the Georgia Trust purchased both houses and an undeveloped lot from the family of Harriet and Edward Johnson. Mr. Johnson (1916-2019), a ground instructor in the Tuskegee Airmen during World War II, moved to Atlanta after the war and became the city’s first African American licensed electrician. Mrs. Johnson (1921-2002), a graduate of Spelman College, earned a master’s degree in education and taught kindergarten in Atlanta Public Schools. Both houses underwent a sustainable rehabilitation and served as a pilot project for a residential-scale Earthcraft Sustainable Preservation program, a set of construction standards and guidelines created by the Georgia Trust and Southface to make historic buildings more energy efficient. In 2019, the Georgia Trust donated the undeveloped lot to Habitat for Humanity, which will allow for the construction of an affordable house.

The rehabilitation of these residences through the West Atlanta Preservation Initiative stands as a special example of what the conservation of historic buildings can do for the preservation and revitalization of culturally significant neighborhoods. As we celebrate the Georgia Trust’s 50th anniversary, we also celebrate the active role that intentional and sustainable rehabilitation can play in the revitalization of growing communities.  

Support the work of the Georgia Trust and programs like our West Atlanta Preservation Initiative by Becoming a Member today! You can also show your support as we near the end of the 50th anniversary of The Georgia Trust by making a Year-End Gift.

See more about the history of the Georgia Trust on our 50th Anniversary blog Celebrating 50.

More Photos

785 Coleman Street

1138 Harwell Street

1575 Mozley Place

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As The Georgia Trust marks its 50th anniversary, we take immense pride in sharing the remarkable journey of one of our most successful preservation projects – the rehabilitation of the Cherry Grove Schoolhouse in Washington, Georgia. This milestone not only represents half a century of our commitment to preserving the state’s rich historic heritage but also exemplifies the power of community, dedication, and the indomitable spirit of self-determination.

Constructed c.1910, the Cherry Grove Schoolhouse stands as a rare surviving example of an early 20th-century rural African American school building in Georgia, and its restoration is a source of immense celebration and inspiration. This one-room schoolhouse is on the grounds of the Cherry Grove Baptist Church, which was established in 1875, and was part of the 175^th school district for the farming children of Danburg and Sandtown. The building was in use from 1910 to 1956.

After a long period of deterioration, the Cherry Grove Schoolhouse became the center of a preservation initiative headed by the Friends of Cherry Grove School, Inc., a 501(c)3 non-profit, in 2015. The building had a collapsed roof that had broken through the floor, termite damage, and broken joists. Moreover, the structure leaned due to the uneven ground, and one of its piers, a crucial part of the foundation, had fallen apart. In 2021, the Cherry Grove Schoolhouse was placed on The Georgia Trust’s “Places in Peril” list, highlighting its precarious state and the urgency of its restoration.

Despite the daunting challenges, the Cherry Grove Schoolhouse has undergone a remarkable transformation. The rehabilitation project, initiated by the Friends of Cherry Grove School, Inc., was a testament to their unwavering commitment and passion. It was a labor of love that required vision, dedication, and substantial efforts. The building was carefully restored to its former glory, ensuring that its historic significance is preserved for the future.

Fast forward to 2023, and it was an incredible moment of pride when the Cherry Grove Schoolhouse received the Marguerite Williams Award, the highest honor bestowed by The Georgia Trust. This award recognizes projects that have had the most significant impact on preservation in the state, and it underscores the exceptional achievement of the restoration efforts.

Today, the Cherry Grove Schoolhouse serves as a significant heritage tourism site, not only for Wilkes County but for the entire state of Georgia. It stands as a symbol of the African American community’s invaluable contributions to education and architecture. The Cherry Grove Schoolhouse is not just a piece of the past but living proof of the perseverance and resilience of a community dedicated to preserving its history.

The preservation of the Cherry Grove Schoolhouse is a shining example of what can be achieved when a community comes together to preserve its rich heritage. As The Georgia Trust celebrates its 50th anniversary, we look back with great pride at the successful rehabilitation of this historic landmark. It is a story of determination, resilience, and the enduring power of history to inspire and unite. The Cherry Grove Schoolhouse’s rehabilitation is not just a preservation project; it’s a celebration of Georgia’s rich cultural heritage and a symbol of the bright future that lies ahead.

Support the work of the Georgia Trust and programs like our Places in Peril d by Becoming a Member today!

See more about the history of the Georgia Trust on our 50th Anniversary blog Celebrating 50.

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In the heart of Sparta, Georgia, nestled amidst a tapestry of historic homes, stands the exquisite Sayre-Alford House, a beacon of timeless elegance and a symbol of The Georgia Trust’s unwavering commitment to preserving the state’s rich architectural heritage. This year marks a significant milestone for The Georgia Trust, as we celebrate five decades of dedicated preservation efforts, and what better way to commemorate this journey than by revisiting one of our most notable success stories – the rehabilitation of the Sayre-Alford House.

Constructed in 1839, the Sayre-Alford House is a prime example of Greek Revival architecture, boasting a central hall plan, six bedrooms, and an astonishing twelve fireplaces. As the years rolled by, this architectural gem bore witness to the changing tides of history, and it eventually came under the protective wing of The Georgia Trust through our Revolving Fund Program.

In the fall of 2015, the Georgia Trust identified preservation-minded buyers, and the Sayre-Alford House was purchased by new owners, with plans to return the property to its former glory. The list of improvements made is evidence of the meticulous care and dedication with which this project was executed. The exterior of the house received much-needed attention with the installation of a new gutter system, ensuring the protection of its structural integrity. Positive grading was employed to safeguard the foundation and ensure proper drainage, an essential element in the preservation of historic homes.

Furthermore, the windows received new panes and shutters, restoring their timeless charm and character. The interior was not left untouched, with a transformation that included the removal of asbestos tile and the restoration of the original pine floors in the main hall. Bathrooms and kitchens were tastefully remodeled to align modern convenience with historic grandeur.

One of the most significant improvements was the installation of blown-in insulation and modern HVAC units throughout all three levels of the house, ensuring that the Sayre-Alford House could stand the test of time and comfortably accommodate future generations.

The rehabilitation of the Sayre-Alford House was a remarkable success that deserved to be shared and celebrated. In 2016, The Georgia Trust featured this iconic house as part of its Expedition to Sparta, a testament to the house’s significance and the Trust’s commitment to showcasing the beauty of Georgia’s architectural heritage.

Moreover, in 2017, the Sayre-Alford House received a prestigious Preservation Award for Excellence in Rehabilitation from the Georgia Trust, further underscoring the significance and success of this project. The property is also protected in perpetuity by a conservation easement held by the Georgia Trust, ensuring the home is safeguarded for generations to come.

As we celebrate our 50th anniversary, the story of the Sayre-Alford House stands as a shining example of the work of the Georgia Trust in half a century of tireless dedication to preservation. The Sayre-Alford House is a living testament to the power of preservation and the enduring beauty of historic architecture.

We invite you to join us in celebrating not only the success of this remarkable project but the larger mission of The Georgia Trust, which continues to protect and celebrate Georgia’s architectural history, ensuring that these treasures will be appreciated and enjoyed for generations to come. Thank you for being a part of our journey, and here’s to another 50 years of preservation excellence!

Support the work of the Georgia Trust and programs like our Revolving Fund by Becoming a Member today!

See more about the history of the Georgia Trust on our 50th Anniversary blog Celebrating 50.

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As we celebrate our 50th anniversary and our longtime supporters, this month we’re highlighting legacy member, Charlie Garbutt, founder of Garbutt Construction Company in Dublin, GA. Here’s why Charlie supports the Georgia Trust:

“After being involved over the last 50 years in historic restoration projects throughout the state of Georgia, I learned early on there was no stronger voice for historic preservation in this state than the Georgia Trust. It deserves all the support we can give; there are too many architectural treasures at risk not to support The Trust.”

Legacy Members are Georgia Trust Members who have supported the Trust for 10+ years. 

See more about our Legacy Members and the history of the Georgia Trust on our 50th Anniversary blog Celebrating 50.

Support the work of the Georgia Trust by Becoming a Member today!

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Hancock County Courthouse HABS 1971

As The Georgia Trust marks its 50th anniversary, we take a moment to celebrate one of the most remarkable preservation successes in the state—the restoration of the Hancock County Courthouse in Sparta, Georgia. This iconic structure, locally known as “Her Majesty,” has a storied history dating back to its construction in 1883. Designed by the renowned Atlanta architecture firm Parkins and Bruce in the Second Empire style, this courthouse held a special place in the hearts of the local community.

Over the years, the Hancock County Courthouse had faced challenges, primarily stemming from a lack of funding for maintenance. In 2013, it was designated as a “Place in Peril.” Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the county initiated $150,000 worth of exterior renovations in a bid to preserve this historic gem.

However, tragedy struck on August 11, 2014, when a devastating fire engulfed the courthouse, reducing its majestic clock tower to ashes and gutting the entire building. The fire raged for nearly three weeks, reaching temperatures high enough to melt the 800-pound bell housed in the clock tower. Heartbreakingly, this event led to the courthouse’s re-listing as a “Place in Peril” in 2015.

In times of adversity, it often takes remarkable individuals to rise above the challenges. Hancock County Commission Chairwoman Sistie Hudson, a woman of determination and political will, played a pivotal role in ensuring the courthouse’s revival. Additionally, a robust insurance policy purchased through the Association of County Commissioners of Georgia provided the necessary financial support to kick-start the reconstruction efforts immediately after the fire.

In just a month, steel reinforcements were placed against the courthouse’s exterior walls, which were found to be structurally sound. Architectural plans, which had been borrowed by neighboring Watkins County in the 1990s, were returned to guide the restoration. Remarkably, this sister to the Hancock County Courthouse, located in Monroe, was also designed by Parkins and Bruce.

The reconstruction effort came with a substantial price tag, totaling $7.5 million, including the meticulous restoration of the iconic clock tower, a half-million-dollar endeavor. The Hancock County Courthouse was reconstructed from the inside out, a labor of love and a testament to the enduring spirit of historic preservation. Throughout this challenging journey, The Georgia Trust played a pivotal role, making numerous visits and offering unwavering support.

The culmination of years of dedication and hard work came in August 2016, when the Hancock County Courthouse in Sparta, Georgia, was rededicated. It was a moment of triumph and pride for the community and all those who had contributed to this remarkable restoration effort. The courthouse had risen from the ashes, stronger and more splendid than ever before.

In recognition of the remarkable determination and community effort that led to the resurrection of this historic building, the Hancock County Courthouse received the prestigious Marguerite Williams Award from The Georgia Trust in the following year. This award, presented annually to the project with the greatest impact on preservation in the state, symbolized the triumph of heritage preservation against all odds.

The restoration of the Hancock County Courthouse in Sparta, Georgia, stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when determination, political will, and community support come together. As we celebrate The Georgia Trust’s 50th anniversary, we also celebrate the legacy of preservation that this project represents. The Hancock County Courthouse, once a “Place in Peril,” now stands proudly as a symbol of our commitment to safeguarding Georgia’s rich architectural heritage for generations to come.

Support the work of the Georgia Trust and programs like Places in Peril by Becoming a Member today!

See more about the history of the Georgia Trust on our 50th Anniversary blog Celebrating 50.

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As we celebrate the Georgia Trust’s 50th anniversary, we take great pride in reflecting on the remarkable projects that have defined our commitment to preserving Georgia’s heritage. One such project that stands as a testament to our mission is the saving and subsequent rehabilitation of the McLeroy House in Madison, Georgia. This historic gem, built circa 1890, beautifully blends elements of the Italianate and Queen Anne architectural styles, and its journey from near demolition to receiving an Excellence in Rehabilitation Award in 2015 is nothing short of inspiring.

Joseph M. McLeroy built this house around 1890 in an up-and-coming area of Madison near the Georgia Railroad and the newly arrived Covington & Macon Railroad (later part of the Central of Georgia Railroad). The structure is a Folk Victorian center hall Cottage with Italianate and East Lake-influenced elements decorating the gables, eaves, and porch. The house was home to many Madison families over the years but had become rental property by the end of the twentieth century.

The historic house had, unfortunately, fallen into a state of disrepair and neglect over time. In 2009, thanks to the Madison Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) a demolition request was denied. Soon after, the Georgia Trust stepped in and acquired the home through its Revolving Fund.

The Georgia Trust ensured the house was stabilized and secured with the addition of a new roof, and hosted a volunteer workday to mothball the property. Joe Smith of Hall Smith_Architecture prepared pro bono rehabilitation plans for the Trust to serve as a marketing tool and guide for a future owner. In the spring of 2011, the Trust sold the property to a preservation-minded buyer, Sandy Sanford, with the agreement it would be rehabilitated. A labor of love, Sandy performed much of the work himself.

Due to direct contact with the soil, the foundation and sills of the kitchen were completely deteriorated. The structure was raised and propped on steel beams while the support structure below was reconstructed. The site was re-graded in order to correct water flow and eliminate wood-to-soil contact. The crowning achievement was ultimately the restoration of the front porch. The porch had been lost for almost a decade but had been recorded in several photos over the years. The architectural plans created by Hall Smith_Architecture, including the designs for the intricate sawn and turned decorative elements for the porch, were used and Mr. Sanford milled these elements himself, recreating the former glory of the house’s facade.

In 2015, the culmination of years of dedication and hard work was met with a resounding triumph. The McLeroy House was awarded for Excellence in Rehabilitation by the Georgia Trust.

The restoration of the McLeroy House serves as a shining example of what can be achieved when a community comes together to protect its heritage. It is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, with dedication, expertise, and a shared vision, we can save our past for the benefit of our future.

As we celebrate the triumphant restoration of the McLeroy House and the Georgia Trust’s 50th anniversary, we invite you to join us in continuing our journey of preservation at the upcoming Fall Ramble in Madison, Georgia. This event offers a unique opportunity to step inside magnificent homes and explore fascinating historic sites, all while experiencing the rich history and charm of Madison. It’s a chance to connect with the heritage we work tirelessly to protect. Don’t miss this extraordinary experience! Join us in celebrating the past, present, and future of preservation in Madison.

Learn more and secure your tickets today by visiting our Fall Ramble webpage. 

Support the work of the Georgia Trust and programs like our Revolving Fund by Becoming a Member today!

See more about the history of the Georgia Trust on our 50th Anniversary blog Celebrating 50.

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Elizabeth DuBose and Mark Frissell on the Ossabaw Island north end dock

Support the work of the Georgia Trust by Becoming a Member today!

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