Buchanan Preservation Society

Overview

The Buchanan Preservation Society is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the historic, cultural, and environmental heritage of Buchanan, Michigan. It was formally established in 1981 after a group of community members successfully thwarted a proposal to demolish Pears Mill in the 1980s.

History

The formation of the Buchanan Preservation Society was prompted by significant changes in the city's landscape, particularly the series of downtown demolitions that occurred in the 1960s. This backdrop highlighted the need for concerted preservation efforts. The Society's founding members were instrumental in supporting early preservation initiatives, including a historic resources survey published in 1976 as Buchanan Past and Future. This foundational work led to the recognition and nomination of two National Register Historic Districts in Buchanan: the Downtown District in 2009 and the North and West Neighborhoods District in 2011.

Mission and Activities

While the organization does not have a publicly documented mission statement, its activities are focused on protecting and preserving residential, commercial, and industrial neighborhoods, as well as their environments. The Society has played a critical role in rehabilitating significant historical structures, such as the Pears Mill and the Ross-Sanders property. For instance, in partnership with the City and other organizations, the Society supported a historic structures report for the Ross-Sanders property, which guides future restoration efforts.

Projects and Partnerships

The Buchanan Preservation Society collaborates with local entities to ensure the preservation of Buchanan's milling history and other cultural assets. This includes partnering with organizations like the Gateway Community Foundation to fund strategic reports and assist in the rehabilitation of important historic sites, such as the Millrace that powers Pears Mill's millstones.

Impact

Through its educational programs and preservation work, the Society continues to enhance community awareness about the significance of Buchanan's history and its architectural heritage. Its efforts contribute to maintaining the unique character of the city while promoting sustainable development and historic preservation practices.

The organization is recognized under the Employer Identification Number (EIN) 38-2409296.

[1] https://www.preservebuchanan.org/about [2] https://www.preservebuchanan.org [3] https://globalmuseumguide.com/museums/united-states/michigan/buchanan/buchanan-preservation-society/ [4] https://www.guidestar.org/profile/38-2409296 [5] https://www.dnb.com/business-directory/company-profiles.buchanan_preservation_society.79ab141da8e81ae9f1a71f0e2e21df77.html