$8.5M in Grants to Protect Black Church Landmarks
Thirty historically Black churches across the United States have received $8.5 million in grants to preserve their rich legacies. The funding comes from the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund as part of its Preserving Black Churches (PBC) grant program.
This initiative aims to safeguard these historic faith centers, which have long been pillars of Black communities. The grants will help address urgent structural issues, protect against demolition, and provide essential financial and technical support to ensure these churches remain intact for future generations.
Churches Receiving Support for Restoration
The selected churches span different states and denominations, highlighting their widespread historical significance. Among the notable recipients are St. Paul United AME Church in Birmingham, Alabama, Boynton United Methodist Church in Houston, Texas, and the A.M.E. Zion Church in Charlotte, North Carolina. New Bethel Baptist Church in Detroit, Michigan, also secured funding.
Soapstone Baptist Church in Pickens County, South Carolina, received $250,000 to preserve its unique history. The church grounds include a one-room school, a slave cemetery, and ancient rock outcrops once used by the Cherokee Nation for cooking. This funding will help protect these sacred spaces, which hold deep cultural and historical meaning.
Preserving Black Churches as Community Pillars
Historic Black churches have been more than places of worship. They have served as community centers, safe spaces, and strongholds of activism during critical moments in history. Brent Leggs, executive director of the African American Cultural Heritage Fund, emphasized the importance of this initiative.
“We are honored to support the ongoing legacies of these churches, which have stood at the forefront of social progress for generations,” Leggs said. “By preserving them, we ensure that their powerful presence continues to live on in their communities and inspire future generations.”
These churches have witnessed defining moments in Black history, from the Civil Rights Movement to local activism efforts. Their survival ensures that these stories remain accessible for generations to come.
A Multi-Million Dollar Effort to Protect History
The Preserving Black Churches grant program is part of a broader $60 million effort to maintain and restore Black religious sites. The 2025 grants range from $50,000 to $500,000, providing substantial support for churches struggling with preservation costs.
Funds will be used for structural repairs, asset management, fundraising support, and long-term stewardship planning. This financial assistance is crucial, as many historic Black churches face threats of deterioration due to limited funding and aging infrastructure.
Faith and History Intersect in Preservation Efforts
For many congregations, this funding represents more than just repairs. It is a lifeline that allows them to continue their mission while protecting a rich history that has shaped Black communities for centuries.
Soapstone Preservation Endowment (SPE) Chairman Carlton Owen expressed gratitude for the support received. “When we began our work, few believed that we could ever achieve an audacious $1 million goal. Yet, in less than three years and with the benefit of this generous award, we stand within sight of the finish line,” Owen said.
With faith and determination, these churches continue to stand strong as enduring symbols of Black resilience, culture, and community leadership.
