Preservation NCWe Built This
We Built This seeks to acknowledge the countless African Americans who built the historic buildings we collectively treasure.
From presnc.org/experience/we-built-this ↗About this program
Many of the historic buildings we revere in North Carolina are credited to their owners. Rarely are the people responsible for the labor and craftsmanship recognized. We Built This seeks to acknowledge the countless African Americans who built the historic buildings we collectively treasure. These individuals were skilled in principles of engineering, construction and business. Many became political and social leaders in their communities. Acknowledging the significance of this history is a start to preserving a tangible link to the past through our built environment.
Preservation North Carolina has developed We Built This: Profiles of Black Architects and Builders in North Carolina, a phased multi-year educational program about the history and legacy of Black builders and craftspeople in North Carolina.
Explore the links below to learn more about the three major components of We Built This.
Run by
Endangered Properties ProgramThrough its award-winning Endangered Properties Program, PNC acquires endangered historic properties and then finds purchasers willing and able to rehabilitate them.
Preservation NC DirectorySearching for a certified consultant or contractor for an upcoming preservation project? Interested in experiencing preservation in your area? Look into our Preservation NC Directory!
Bellamy Mansion MuseumThrough the stewardship of the Bellamy Mansion Museum and statewide educational programming, we foster community engagement and preserve the unique character of NC communities.