Preservation Oklahoma’s 2019 Most Endangered Places Unveiling

Preservation Oklahoma (POK) will unveil its annual list of Oklahoma’s Most Endangered Places on Monday, March 4, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Henry Overholser Mansion’s newly renovated Carriage House.

For more than 25 years, POK has recognized historic sites across Oklahoma that are at risk of demolition or deterioration while raising awareness of the need to protect our state’s historical resources. This year, 11 historic sites throughout the state will be announced as part of Oklahoma’s 2019 Most Endangered Places. While inclusion on the list does not ensure protection or funding, it is a vital component in mobilizing support for the preservation of historic sites.

“This list was created to help raise awareness of the importance of preserving our state’s historical resources by focusing attention on the structures where Oklahoma history lives,” said POK Executive Director Cayla Lewis. “It is our hope that the 11 sites on the 2019 list will benefit from the attention received and that Oklahomans will be more aware of the diverse state history represented in these structures.”

Established as one of POK’s first programs, Oklahoma’s Most Endangered Places was patterned after a similar annual list produced by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Realizing the need for public attention of the state’s historic structures, the POK Board of Directors agreed to publish an annual list of properties and sites that have special historical or architectural significance to our state and are in danger of being lost due to neglect, poor maintenance, obsolescence, or other causes.

The list was selected by a group of preservation professionals from nominations submitted by the public. An exhibit of the 2019 list will travel to numerous locations across the state to continue the discussion about the need to preserve these historic sites.

At this year’s Most Endangered Places reception, guests can take a free tour of the Overholser Mansion while enjoying light snacks and COOP Ale Works beer. Tickets to the unveiling are $30. All funds raised will allow POK to advance its mission of preserving the places where Oklahoma history lives.

The program is funded in part by Oklahoma Humanities (OH) and the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH). Any views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed do not necessarily represent those of OH or NEH.

The Henry Overholser Mansion is located at 405 NW 15th Street in Oklahoma City. For more information, please call 405-525-5325 or visit www.preservationok.org.