The National Trust for Historic Preservation, a nonprofit organization based in Washington, D.C., has unveiled its annual list of "America's 11 Most Endangered Historic Places." This year's selection coincides with the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States, emphasizing the importance of sites that reflect the nation's commitment to equality.
Each of the chosen locations will receive a one-time grant of $25,000 aimed at safeguarding these historic landmarks and ensuring their narratives of equality are preserved for future generations.
Among the notable sites on the list are the Stonewall National Monument in New York, recognized as a pivotal location in the gay rights movement, and the President's House Site in Philadelphia, which served as a presidential residence before the capital moved to Washington.
Recently, the National Parks Service (NPS) faced scrutiny for removing placards from the President's House Site that acknowledged the history of enslaved individuals who worked there during George Washington's presidency. This decision was part of an effort to align the site with a 2025 executive order that criticized its previous interpretative approach.
The City of Philadelphia responded by filing a lawsuit, arguing that any modifications to the site should involve collaboration with the NPS. A federal judge subsequently mandated the temporary restoration of the removed signs, highlighting the necessity of presenting a truthful account of the nation's history.
In February, the NPS also removed the Pride flag from the Stonewall National Monument, replacing it with the U.S. flag, citing a policy against non-agency flags at national monuments. In a show of solidarity, New York City officials quickly re-raised the Pride flag, emphasizing its significance at the site.
In response to the flag removal, a coalition of nonprofits filed a lawsuit to restore the Pride flag, arguing that its removal violated federal law. By April, a settlement was reached, allowing the Pride flag to permanently fly at the monument.
This year's list not only highlights these two sites but also includes locations of great significance to various historically marginalized communities. For instance, the Women's Rights National Historical Park in Seneca Falls, New York, is currently facing a maintenance backlog of $10 million. Similarly, the Detroit Association of Women's Clubs, an important cultural institution, requires funds for restoration after sustaining damage.
Other sites include the Ben Moore Hotel in Montgomery, which is in dire need of restoration, and the Tule Lake Segregation Center in California, which memorializes the Japanese American experience during World War II but lacks adequate protection.
According to the National Trust, preserving these sites is vital for narrating the complete American story, emphasizing values such as equal opportunity, religious freedom, and the right to free expression.
As Carol Quillen, the National Trust's president and CEO, stated, the preservation of these historical places is essential for continuing to inspire future generations in the pursuit of equality and justice.