Preservation Virginia recognizes local group for Henrico preservation efforts

Preservation Virginia has announced its annual list of preservation award recipients statewide, and one of the 10 is an effort involving Henrico.

For more than 50 years, the historic preservation awards have recognized outstanding preservation projects, organizations and individuals who excel in preserving the commonwealth’s history and culture.

“The preservation awards are an opportunity to thank the individuals and organizations actively working to preserve historic sites in Virginia for future generations,” said Elizabeth S. Kostelny, CEO of Preservation Virginia. “Virginia has incredibly rich history, and it’s important to honor and spotlight those efforts that preserve historic places, build stronger communities and support the economic vitality of the Commonwealth.”

In the Outstanding Community Preservation category, Capital Region Land Conservancy was honored for its efforts to protect nearly 900 acres at Henrico’s Malvern Hill and properties within the viewshed of Libby Hill (known as the View That Named Richmond).

Since 2017, CRLC has worked in Henrico to protect New Market Heights Battlefield, the site of a significant victory by United States Colored Troops during the American Civil War. Through a mix of conservation easements, land donations and purchases, CRLC has protected more than 428 acres of the historic and scenic landscape and continues its efforts to conserve additional land and ensure that public access and interpretation of the battlefield are pursued.

All 10 awardees will be honored at this year’s awards ceremony at the Hotel John Marshall in Richmond Sept. 29. The keynote address will be given by Chief G. Anne Richardson of the Rappahannock Indian Tribe, who won an Outstanding Preservation Achievement award in 2022.

Tickets to the event are available at preservationawards.eventbrite.com, and details on the full list of awardees can be found here.