Sites of Black History and Underrepresented Communities
Formed in 2022 Cincinnati Preservation’s Sites of Black History initiative increases awareness and the preservation of sites and structures that tell the story of the Black experience in Greater Cincinnati.
The historic preservation movement has made substantial progress in preserving and commemorating the places that reflect the history of white America. Less focus has been placed on the sites associated with the history of African American communities.
Only 2% of the 95,000 entries on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) focus on the experience of Black Americans. Cincinnati has a similar deficit. While there
is increasing recognition of places such as Greystone Ballroom at Music Hall, the Manse Hotel in Walnut Hills and King Records studios in Evanston, these important sites are only a small part of a much, much larger untold history.
Greater Cincinnati’s Black and African American Historic Context Study
Cincinnati Preservation has completed the Greater Cincinnati Black and African American Historic Context Study, a landmark document that brings long-overlooked stories and places to the forefront of our region’s history. The study provides an accessible, research-based foundation that will support new National Register nominations, Local Historic Landmark designations, and ongoing preservation efforts. By identifying and elevating sites tied to Black history across the region, this work helps ensure these places are acknowledged, celebrated, and protected for generations to come.
The study includes a comprehensive survey of sites associated with Black and African American history within the I-275 loop on both the Ohio and Kentucky sides of the river. This research will guide long-term preservation planning, inform community revitalization strategies, and serve as a critical resource for local residents, historians, and preservation partners.
This project is generously funded by
Highlights of our Work
Some of the work the Cincinnati Preservation Sites of Black History Initiative has accomplished in collaboration with and guided by communities of color include:
Sarah Fossett Marker Dedication: Gifted Wilkinson, Pastor Dupuy, Vice Mayor Jan Michelle Lemon Kearney, Wilma Wilson
Obtained a historic marker (with the support of First Baptist Church of Cumminsville) for Sarah and Peter Fossett who were black abolitionists, underground railroad conductors and founders of the First Baptist Church of Cumminsville.
Recognized and featured Union Baptist Cemetery’s work to restore the oldest African American burial ground in Hamilton County, still used by Union Baptist Church, the second oldest black congregation in Cincinnati.
Cheryl New, Member of Union Baptist Church; Beth Johonson, CPA Executive Director; Louise Stevenson, Member of Union Baptist Church.
First Baptist Church of Walnut Hills
In partnership with Walnut Hills Historical Society and First Baptist Church, Cincinnati Preservation supported local historic designation of First Baptist Church of Walnut Hills which protects this important Site of Black history from demolition.