A two-story house with Tudor-style architecture, brown wood trim, a large brick chimney, and a covered front porch, set on a grassy lawn under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds.

Resources

A two-story Craftsman-style house with dark green and white exterior, a brick chimney, covered porch, hanging flower baskets, and lush landscaping, set under a blue sky with scattered clouds and surrounding trees.

Tools & Guidance for Historic Preservation

Explore resources from the Duluth Preservation Alliance, including connections to local craftspeople, help researching your property’s history, and practical preservation tips to guide your project.

A close-up view of a house gable with white fish scale shingles, a white-framed window, and part of the roof, with tree branches and blue sky above.

Research Your Property

Learn About Your Home

Understanding your property’s history is the first step toward meaningful preservation. Research original construction details, past owners, and any renovations to better guide repairs and restoration. This knowledge helps you make informed decisions that respect the building’s character while planning for its future.

Preservation Tips

Caring for Historic Buildings

Regular upkeep is key to preserving historic structures. Inspect roofs, foundations, and drainage often, and address small issues before they become costly problems. When possible, repair rather than replace, and use materials that match the original design to maintain the building’s character and longevity.

A weathered, old brick wall with patches of crumbling plaster and exposed red bricks, showing signs of age, decay, and erosion.
A person wearing a flat cap and glasses repairs a vintage brass wall sconce with a candle-shaped bulb at a wooden workbench in a workshop filled with tools and antique objects.

Craftsperson Directory

Find a Craftsperson

Connect with skilled contractor who specialize in historic materials and traditional building techniques. Whether you need masonry, carpentry, or restoration work, the right professional helps ensure repairs are done with care and respect for your property’s original character.

More Resources

Interior of an ornate church with red carpet, rows of wooden pews, religious icons on the altar, a large chandelier, and colorful stained glass windows. The ceiling is painted light blue with star accents.

Grant Funding

Interior view of a historic theater with ornate wooden ceiling, circular skylight, large pipe organ on the left, red carpet, and rows of blue seats on the main floor and balcony. Warm lighting fills the space.

Apply for Landmark Designation

A stone building with tall windows and green decorative panels is shown under a cloudy sky, with a modern glass office building visible in the background.

Helpful Links