Federal Approval Achieved at Buchanan Michigan's North and West Historic Districts
(OPENPRESS) December 28, 2011 -- At its meeting on December 27th, the City of Buchanan will announce final, federal approval of its latest achievement -- the "North and West Neighborhoods Historic District". The district covers 166 acres and 701 resources, including houses, barns, garages, several sacred and commercial properties, a park, street stairs and others. Twenty-three architectural styles are represented, which date from the 1840s to the early 1960s.
In October, the nomination was forwarded to Washington DC for National Register of Historic Places review,
following approval by the State Historic Preservation Review Board. At that time, Michigan's State Historic
Preservation Officer Brian Conway praised the City of Buchanan for following its 2008 master plan, which states among its goals: "To promote and fully develop the historic character and artistic qualities of the community," and said that Buchanan: "...recognizes the economic potential of their historic downtown and neighborhoods."
When she learned the designation was final, Mayor Carla Cole responded: "It is gratifying to finish this district. Many hours went into the nomination, and Buchanan is moving forward to save its history for future generations. I hope this will encourage other communities to do the same. Preserving our buildings and homes is important for young citizens, and this work will help encourage them to live and work in this great city. Life Is Better Here!" City Manager William Marx said: "The new historic district designation is an endorsement of what hometown America is about. It recognizes the importance of our settlers' efforts and achievements, says something very positive about what our community values, and provides a model for our future."
The city worked with preservation consultant Pamela Hall O'Connor of Preservation Practices in Kalamazoo on
the North and West Neighborhoods nomination, following others she's prepared for the City and private Buchanan
clients. These include the Union Block (2007), Downtown Buchanan (2009), and Zinc Collar Pad building (2009).
The North and West Neighborhoods National Register Historic District is roughly bounded by Main, 4th, Chippewa, W. Front, S. Detroit, Chicago, Clark, Roe, and Charles Streets.
