This month is National Historic Preservation Month, and the City of Muncie will be supporting historic preservation through their Inaugural Historic Preservation Month Celebration. The purpose for this is to highlight Muncie’s commitment to historic preservation by highlighting historic districts and landmarks. For our first annual celebration, we will be focusing on one of Muncie’s largest historic landmarks, Cornerstone Center for the Arts. Our presentations will all be held at this historic building, showcasing the rich history and architecture of the building. The Historic Preservation Officer, James Heimlich, along with the Historic Preservation and Rehabilitation Commission, and the City of Muncie are supporting the efforts of Cornerstone to preserve and use their amazing facilities. Additionally, we are highlighting Cornerstone Center for the Arts, their programs and needs.
Additionally, through the month of May, there will be weekly opportunities to take guided tours of Muncie’s historic districts, of a selection of Muncie’s historic sacred places, and of Cornerstone. Prior to each week, we will post the opportunities for participating in walking tours and historic preservation events for that week. Below are each week’s speaking events and locations, and the highlighted historic districts for that week:
Week 1: Emily Kimbrough Historic District
May 1st, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm, Cornerstone, Auditorium – Opening Ceremony
Week 2: Beech Grove Historic District, Minnetrista Historic District, and Kirby Historic District
May 11th, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm, Cornerstone, Grand Hall (3rd Floor)
Week 3: Gilbert Historic District, Meeks Avenue Historic District, and Wysor Historic District
May 17th, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm, Cornerstone, Heritage Room (2nd Floor)
Week 4: Boyce Block Historic District, Old Federal Building Historic District, and Walnut Street Historic District
May 24th, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm, Cornerstone, Legacy Room (3rd Floor)
Week 5: Old West End Historic District and Riverside Historic District
May 31st 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm, Cornerstone, Auditorium – Closing Ceremony