Preserving Equality: The Most Endangered Historic Places in America 2026
The National Trust for Historic Preservation has released its annual list of the most endangered historic places in the United States for 2026. This year's list, commemorating America's 250th anniversary, focuses on the theme that all individuals are created equal. The 11 sites selected showcase the ongoing struggle for justice and equality in American history, spanning from the East to the West Coast and the South to the Midwest and Rocky Mountain West.
Among the endangered sites are the historic Centennial Hill neighborhood in Montgomery, Alabama, which includes the former Davis Hotel, a significant location during the Civil Rights Movement. The Tule Lake War Relocation Center in California, once a camp for Japanese Americans during World War II, faces threats from nearby construction projects. Angel Island Immigration Station in California, a key port for immigrants from Asia, is at risk due to various factors.
The list also includes the Old Kennett Meetinghouse in Pennsylvania, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History building in Detroit, and the Bears Ears National Monument in Utah, all facing challenges that require preservation efforts. The Women's Rights National Historic Park in New York, the Stonewall National Monument in New York City, and the President's House Site in Philadelphia are also on the list, each with unique preservation needs.
The Stonewall National Monument, the first U.S. national monument dedicated to LGBTQ+ history, has faced challenges under the Trump administration, including the removal of the Pride flag from its flagpole. The President's House Site in Philadelphia, where George Washington lived, has been embroiled in litigation over the removal of exhibits on enslaved individuals who lived there in the 1790s.
The list aims to raise awareness about the importance of preserving these historic sites and their stories. Each site on the 2026 list will receive a $25,000 grant to support efforts to highlight their connections to the principle of equality and address the threats they face. By recognizing and protecting these sites, we can ensure that their stories continue to be told for future generations to learn from and appreciate.