National Preservation Month reminds us that historic preservation is far more than saving old buildings – it’s about honoring heritage, investing in communities, and creating a more sustainable future. For Kronenberger & Sons Restoration, this month offers a chance to reflect on the work we do and why it matters – not just for today, but for generations to come.
Why Preservation Matters
Historic preservation provides a tangible way for us to understand our past, connect with our heritage, and maintain community character. By preserving historic sites, we can learn about the people, events, and cultures that shaped our communities and nation. Preservation also supports economic development, fosters community planning, and contributes to a sense of place.
One thing we love most about working in historic preservation are the stories behind each of these buildings that have shaped our towns, cities, and country. Every time we restore a 19th-century church steeple, a Federal-era courthouse, or a beloved community landmark, we’re not just protecting architecture – we’re preserving craftsmanship, individuality, and cultural legacy. These structures tell the story of who we are and how we got here.
The impact of preservation extends well beyond the aesthetic and emotional. It has real, tangible benefits that affect the economy, the environment, and the social fabric of our communities.
Job Creation & Economic Catalyst
Preservation creates skilled, meaningful jobs. Traditional trades like carpentry, plastering, masonry, and metalwork – core to our work at Kronenberger & Sons – have continued to endure through restoration projects, and with programs such as apprenticeships, they can thrive again. These trades aren’t just jobs, they’re careers built on expertise, pride, and tradition passed down through generations.
According to the National Trust for Historic Preservation, preservation and rehabilitation projects generate more jobs per dollar spent than new construction. This is because preservation is labor-intensive, requiring craftsmanship and care. Rather than relying on prefabricated materials and production-style construction methods, preservation demands hands-on skills and attention to detail. Also important to note is that almost all preservation dollars stay local – supporting local tradespeople, small businesses, and regional suppliers, fueling local economies.
Strengthening Communities
Restoring one historic building can spark a neighborhood revitalization. A once-vacant downtown storefront becomes a small business hub. A restored school becomes a community center. A dilapidated mill building becomes a multi-use complex with retail, office and housing space. These places tell stories – and when they’re brought back to life, they continue to serve our communities.
Preservation fosters civic pride and a shared sense of place. It reminds residents that where they live matters – and that their history is worth preserving. When people feel more connected to their surroundings, they’re more likely to engage, invest, and stay rooted in their communities.
Environmental Sustainability
Preservation is one of the most environmentally responsible actions we can take. Reusing historic buildings reduces demolition waste, conserves materials, and avoids the carbon footprint of new construction. At a time when sustainable choices are more important than ever, historic preservation offers a powerful, practical solution.
Older, historic buildings were constructed with durable, high-quality materials, and designed for natural airflow, light, and climate responsiveness. With thoughtful updates, these buildings can perform just as efficiently as new ones – and often with greater character and longevity.
A Mission That Endures
At Kronenberger & Sons, we’ve spent decades preserving the architectural fabric of the Northeast. From courthouses to chapels, from covered bridges to concert halls, our projects reflect our deep belief in the value of restoration – not just as a technical skill, but as a civic responsibility.
This Preservation Month, we invite you to look around your own community. What buildings hold your history? What stories deserve to be carried forward?
