Historic Preservation Lecture Series – Preserving Black History in Rural Virginia

At the center of most 19th century Black communities were two critical institutions—a church and a school. Beginning as modest, simple frame structures, later additions and improvements came as community size, wealth, and pride grew.

Since retiring five years ago as UVA’s Historic Preservation Architect, Jody Lahendro, FAIA, has provided professional services to central Virginia nonprofits seeking to preserve historic Black schools and churches. In this talk, Jody will present several of his projects, from initial community engagement and grant assistance, through the architectural and construction process. He will also discuss how these buildings fit within the broader cultural histories of Black education and religion.

The Historic Preservation Lecture Series is put on in collaboration with Preservation Piedmont, the Albemarle County Historic Preservation Committee, and the City of Charlottesville Historic Resources Committee.

This series is generously sponsored by Commonwealth Contractors.