Heritage Lodging Program

The Preservation Texas Heritage Lodging Program will address a critical need for preserving and revitalizing endangered historic buildings across the state. This innovative program will focus on rescuing Recorded Texas Historic Landmarks and National Register properties at risk due to neglect or decay. By restoring these historic structures and converting them into unique vacation rentals, we will ensure their preservation while generating sustainable income to support ongoing maintenance and future restoration projects.

Texas is home to a wealth of historic properties in need of preservation, and the Heritage Lodging Program will prioritize the acquisition of buildings included on the Preservation Texas Endangered Heritage List. By targeting these at-risk landmarks, the program can safeguard our state’s cultural heritage and provide new opportunities for economic development in underserved areas. This initiative will not only preserve the architectural and historical significance of these buildings but also revitalize local communities.

The Heritage Lodging Program’s strategy will be to transform endangered historic buildings into distinctive, high-quality vacation rentals. This approach will generate ongoing revenue that will be reinvested into maintaining the properties, while supporting local heritage tourism. Each property will be furnished with Texas furniture and art, or accurate reproductions, creating an authentic and immersive experience for guests. Guests will have the unique opportunity to experience Texas history firsthand, staying in restored landmarks and contributing directly to their preservation. Additionally, when not rented to guests, special tours will be offered, enhancing public engagement and education. This self-sustaining model is designed to both save historic properties and give them new life and purpose.

HERITAGE LODGING PROJECTS

The 1939 Linden Fire Station in Cass County will be the first project completed as part of the Preservation Texas Heritage Lodging Program.

Rendering of the 1939 Linden Fire Station after the planned rehabilitation.