Each community has its own history. However, each one has pieces from the past preserved until today. The following could be statues of their Civil War generals, historic churches, or places of worship, and other establishments that are at least from the previous century. Unfortunately, due to land transformation for housing and residential reforms, some of these treasured places needed to be finally put into the past.
If you are someone who feels strongly about historical places and establishments in your area, you are not being sentimental. There is value in preserving history, and if the Ancient Greeks and Romans did not do that, there would be no culture to learn and experience today. Following the same context, the Roman Forum still stands today for many tourists all over the world to marvel at because of restoration and preservation efforts. This brings us to the point, what are the ways to preserve these community gems without compromising the economic demands of the area.
Repurposing
There are many examples of repurposed establishments over the years. Some of these instances were caused by natural calamities, wars, and even economic demands.
There are parlor stores that used to be war headquarters, hospitals that are now malls, and houses that now stand in old cemeteries. When a community is running out of space to accommodate residents and new businesses, it is only understandable to consider the future more than the past. However, there is always the solution to repurpose these historical establishments instead of completely eradicating them for good. For example, a 1900 museum that unfortunately wasn’t able to gather enough visitors could be repurposed to a dormitory or residential complex. With the right renovation services that can transform its facade, inviting new residents would not be that hard. A natural stone supplier can help transform the place, making it homey and easy on the eye.
Moreover, there are historical establishments that can also be repurposed to a business center. We have mentioned an old hospital being a mall today, and people do not even mind. The local government can also opt for this solution to bring in more business in the area. Salvage what can be salvaged, repurpose it to a modern business center while preserving the structure’s historical foundations. Your community does not have to completely let go of its humble roots with the right engineering team.
Market It as a Tourist Spot
When all else fails, and the local government needs to find a means to bring in more funds to the local treasury, making the historical sites tourist spots would not hurt. Investing in marketing strategies is the best thing the local government can do to spare these establishments that contributed to the place’s history. Now, what would make a good marketing strategy? Storytelling. Romanticize the story behind the establishments, and make it human-centric. Tell a story that people can relate to and something that they can marvel at as well. It is also wise to highlight any tragic or unfortunate events that happen in the area during notable historical events. If you think that is a bit extreme, just look at the Colosseum and how Italy’s tourism department proudly showcases the chambers where gladiators used to wait for their glorious combat to the death.
Why Are These Alternatives Important to the Community?
It all goes down to how important it is to be aware of their history. All place has their own history, and it does not even have to hit the level of extremities. Your community can have a simple farmhouse that stands the test of time and make it an iconic Airbnb. By telling stories of people who used to live there, and even those who stayed in for the night, your community can have your own piece of shared history with the rest of the world.
The examples Greece and Rome have set might seem far-fetched compared to what your community is going through. After all, those countries are known to be the epicenter of history. However, remember that the Ancient Greeks and Romans have also seen modernization and nationwide transformation. Both countries had to get on with the times. Rome even had to replace its ancient road system with asphalt and newer roads. Mind you, these roads snaked the whole Eurasian continent, coining the saying, “All roads lead to Rome.”
Final Thoughts
Preserving history may seem unimportant when facing economic struggles, but it is everyone’s duty to do so and pass the culture on to the next generation.
