Our Sacred Landmarks Support Initiative is an interdenominational program that assists congregations across Northeast Ohio with the preservation of their historic properties.
Northeast Ohio is blessed with hundreds of historically significant religious properties that represent the finest craftsmanship and architectural talent of their day. These buildings reflect and embody the spiritual and cultural traditions of their congregations, whose rich histories are still evident. Unfortunately, over the past few decades, many of these properties have suffered prolonged physical deterioration due to changing congregations, declining revenues and lack of financial and technical resources.
Overwhelmed by the varied challenges of maintaining their buildings, performing repairs and hosting community outreach programs, congregations can turn to Cleveland Restoration Society for reliable, impartial technical assistance that encourages proactive property management and preserves the legacy of their historic properties. Further information regarding grant funding or helping churches become listed as local Landmarks or in the National Register of Historic Places is also available through our Sacred Landmarks Support Initiative.
Overwhelmed by the challenges of maintaining their buildings, congregations can turn to Cleveland Restoration Society for reliable, impartial technical assistance.
Complete the Intake Form to request assistance from CRS today!
Sacred Landmarks Committee
The Sacred Landmarks Committee is made up of construction specialists—including architects, masonry specialists, roofing technicians, stained glass experts, engineers, historic lighting specialists and historic preservationists—who frequently work with churches. This group can visit the church and then compile a conditions assessment that can help guide future restoration efforts. In addition to the conditions assessment, CRS is also available to share contractor information for specific projects, or review bids if the church wants an impartial opinion.
Assistance is available on-site, over the phone or e-mail, and through property stewardship workshops and seminars.
How We Can Help
Review Project Scopes of Work
Evaluating Contractor Bids
Instructional Seminars for Trustees
On-Site Visual Inspection
Detailed Follow Up with Estimates
Referrals for Contractors
Preserving the Importance of Cleveland’s Black Churches
Beyond physical preservation, Cleveland Restoration Society is working to document, preserve, and share the history and cultural heritage of Cleveland’s Black churches through local and national designation, scholarly research, the collection of oral histories, and educational programs.