05/19/2026
National Preservation Month is more than restoring buildings it’s about protecting stories, people, culture, and legacy.
At Smithville Community Coalition, preservation means honoring one of the last remaining historically Black communities in Mecklenburg County while ensuring the families who built this community are not erased from its future. From affordable housing initiatives and senior support to heirs’ property education and cultural preservation, we understand that preservation is both historical and deeply personal.
As Charlotte and surrounding communities continue to grow at a rapid pace, we remain committed to protecting the soul of Historic Smithville preserving not only structures and landmarks, but the dignity, memories, faith, and resilience of generations who came before us.
This National Preservation Month, we invite our community to stand with us in preserving legacy, creating pathways to stability, and ensuring that history remains visible, valued, and protected for generations to come.