Washington Trust for Historic Preservation

Washington Trust for Historic Preservation is a private, nonprofit organization dedicated to safeguarding the historic places that define the character of Washington State. Founded in 1976, it serves as the state's primary grassroots advocate for the preservation of buildings, landscapes, and archaeological sites. The organization works through public education, direct advocacy, and hands-on stewardship to protect the state's diverse cultural heritage.

History

The organization was established in 1976, a pivotal year that saw the passage of the federal Tax Reform Act of 1976, which created important incentives for historic rehabilitation. Its founding was part of a broader national preservation movement, influenced by the success of the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the aftermath of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. Early efforts focused on raising public awareness and providing technical resources to local communities and preservation commissions. A significant early victory involved advocacy for the adaptive reuse of Pioneer Square in Seattle, helping to establish it as a model for urban revitalization. Over the decades, the Trust has expanded its scope to address threats to mid-century modern architecture, agricultural resources, and underrepresented heritage sites across the state.

Mission and programs

The core mission is to promote the preservation of Washington's historic places through advocacy, education, and collaboration. A flagship program is the annual **Most Endangered Historic Properties List**, which highlights culturally significant sites facing imminent threat or neglect, drawing public and media attention to their plight. The organization also administers the **Preservation Grant Program**, providing direct funding for restoration projects, architectural assessments, and organizational capacity building. Educational initiatives include the **Preservation Leadership Training** series, workshops, and publications that offer practical guidance on topics like the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation and navigating local landmark designation processes. These programs are designed to empower local advocates, property owners, and professionals.

Advocacy and policy work

The Trust actively engages in legislative advocacy at the state and local levels to strengthen preservation laws and secure funding. It has been instrumental in supporting the Washington State Historic Preservation Office and advocating for the preservation of state-owned properties like the Northern State Hospital site. Key policy work includes championing the state's Historic Cemetery Preservation program and improvements to the Washington Heritage Register nomination process. The organization frequently provides expert testimony before bodies such as the Washington State Legislature and local planning commissions, and it mobilizes its membership to oppose demolitions of significant structures, such as the former Seattle Times building. It also partners with entities like the National Park Service and Advisory Council on Historic Preservation on federal policy issues affecting the state.

Properties and projects

The Trust's advocacy has directly contributed to the protection of numerous significant places. These include the iconic Smith Tower in Seattle, the historic Carnation Research Farm in King County, and the Lynnwood-area Alderwood Manor heritage site. It has supported projects for Native American heritage sites, such as restoration work at the St. Mary's Mission in Omak. The organization also highlights and assists with the rehabilitation of endangered theaters, including the Roxy Theatre in Bremerton and the Lincoln Theatre in Mount Vernon. Its work extends to preserving historic bridges, like the Fairhaven Bridge in Bellingham, and advocating for the adaptive reuse of former schools and downtown commercial buildings statewide.

Organization and leadership

The Trust is governed by a volunteer Board of directors composed of preservation professionals, community leaders, and historians from across Washington. Day-to-day operations are managed by an executive director and a small professional staff based in Seattle. The organization is funded through membership dues, grants from foundations like the National Endowment for the Humanities, corporate sponsorships, and fundraising events such as the annual **Preservation Celebration** awards gala. It works in close partnership with local preservation groups, tribal historic preservation offices, Main Street programs, and city agencies, forming a statewide network to advance shared preservation goals.