Raleigh Historic Development Commission

Exploring the Raleigh Historic Development Commission

The Raleigh Historic Development Commission (RHDC), located in Raleigh, North Carolina, serves as a vital institution dedicated to preserving the city’s rich historical narrative. The mission of the RHDC is to identify, preserve, protect, and promote Raleigh’s historic resources, ensuring that the city’s diverse heritage is safeguarded for future generations.

Key Initiatives and Projects

The RHDC is involved in various initiatives aimed at documenting and celebrating different facets of Raleigh’s history. One notable project is the African American Heritage Architectural Survey. This initiative, supported by a 2021 federal Historic Preservation Fund grant, aims to update architectural surveys of buildings and neighborhoods crucial to African American history. This includes special emphasis on churches and entertainment venues built between 1945 and 1975, alongside properties connected to the Civil Rights Movement. The Biltmore Hills neighborhood will also see documentation during this project.

Additionally, the RHDC is preparing a historic context report focusing on LGBTQIA+ history and culture in Raleigh. This endeavor represents an important step forward in recognizing the contributions of the LGBTQIA+ community and ensuring they are included in the city’s historical narrative.

Participating in Historic Preservation

The RHDC encourages public involvement in the preservation of Raleigh’s historical resources. For this purpose, they require applications for a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) for both major and minor changes to historic properties. Upcoming meeting times and agendas are readily available on the City of Raleigh’s website, providing opportunities for community members to stay informed and participate.

The RHDC also hosts events, such as the Historic Bike Ride, which promotes awareness of Raleigh’s historic sites while engaging local residents and visitors alike. Details about this event can be found on the city’s official website, with registration options readily accessible.

Contact and Communication

As part of a transition plan, the RHDC is moving content from its original website to RaleighNC.gov throughout 2023 and 2024. If users encounter broken links or are unable to locate specific information, they are encouraged to reach out via email at historicpreservation@raleighnc.gov.

The Raleigh Historic Development Commission stands as a beacon of heritage, community involvement, and historical awareness. By preserving the past, the RHDC seeks to inspire future generations to appreciate and learn from Raleigh’s rich history. Whether through attending meetings, partaking in surveys, or exploring the city’s historic districts, there are numerous ways to engage with this invaluable resource.