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The Alabama Historical Commission (AHC), the State Historic Preservation Office, has initiated its 2024 Grant Program, supported by funds allocated by the Alabama Legislature. Historic sites eligible for the program can submit applications from Jan. 16 through Mar. 29, aiming to secure funding for preservation and educational projects.

Barbara Middleton, president of the Butler County Historical Society, mentioned that while the society has discussed potential uses for this financial assistance, they have not solidified any plans to pursue it further. 

“Usually, we are funded through membership dues, but we have utilized similar grants in the past,” Middleton said. “Typically, we apply for individual grants on a case-by-case basis.”

The state program, which boasts a budget of $3,300,000, will allocate funds to public or non-profit entities that own monuments commemorating historical events or operate sites with a historical education-based mission. Priority will be given to properties listed in or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places, especially those built before 1840 and accessible to the public. 

Additionally, preference will be given to properties built before 1943 that are listed or eligible for listing, as well as those that significantly contributed to the civil rights movement after 1943. Grant amounts will be capped at $75,000 per entity and must be utilized within two years of receipt.

“Our state’s history is important, and the legislature realizes this,” said Senator Arthur Orr. “All across Alabama we have sites that are important to each of us to remind us of who we are or were as a people. Thanks to our partnership with the Alabama Historical Commission, we are able to preserve and maintain elements of our past.”

This year’s funding represents a $1 million increase from the previous year, indicating a continued commitment to preserving Alabama’s rich historical heritage. The application window for the program is open, providing eligible historic sites across Alabama with an opportunity to secure vital support for their preservation efforts.

“Increased funding for these grants reflects the overwhelming success of the program” said Alabama Historical Commission Chairman, Dr. James Day. “Many buildings have been preserved and restored in recent years, and various facets of Alabama history have been enhanced.” 

Day continued, “The AHC acknowledges and appreciates the interest and support of the State Legislature. By investing in Alabama’s past, we are forging a path for our future.”

“Last fiscal year, the Historic Sites Grant Program helped to facilitate several types of improvements, including roof replacements, window restorations, and exterior painting,” said Lisa D. Jones, Executive Director of the Alabama Historical Commission. “The goal of the 2024 grant program is to assist historic sites throughout Alabama with both improvements and educational programming, which will help preserve them for future generations. Thank you to  the Alabama Legislature and Governor Kay Ivey for funding this much needed grant program to help preserve Alabama’s historic sites.”

Applicants must submit an official 2024 Historic Sites Grant application available on the AHC Submittable platform. For more information, please visit the Grants page on the Alabama Historical Commission website. 

To learn more about the Alabama Historical Commission, please visit ahc.alabama.gov.