The Houston Area Preservation Initiative (HAPI) is a non-profit 501(C)(3) group that history enthusiasts can join to help promote historic preservation in Houston, Minnesota. Forsyth and has been continuously owned by one family since 1876 – the oldest such property in Houston. Our purpose is to preserve this historic property for use as a community arts, culture, history, and education for area r
esidents and visitors. HAPI is now incorporated by the State of Minnesota and as of July 2021 has 501(C)(3) status which allows us to apply for grants and accept tax-deductible donations for our projects. As you drive by the property you may notice that work is being done--lawn work along with minor landscaping thus far, painting and upkeep of the “office” building used by Nels H. Forsyth with many more projects to come. Nels H. Forsyth, the original owner, was active in the early history of Houston. He owned and operated a dray business (a wagon transport company), harvested ice for delivery throughout the town during the summer, managed the L.R. Hall general store, cut firewood for the railroad, and was also a deputy sheriff of Houston County for 52 years. This is a unique property and serves an untapped niche in our community. It serves as a Cultural and Educational Center, a place for historical displays, presentations and lectures, small art shows, private parties, meetings, family reunions, musical performances, classes and more. The current HAPI Board of Directors include: Bryan & Diane Forsyth, Ron & Rae Evenson, Larry Jerviss, Shelley Jerviss, Jim Skree, Diane Lambrecht, Allison Wagner & Michelle Hoskins.
