Sacramento Council Designates New Helvetia and Black Landmarks as Protected

On August 26, the Sacramento City Council ratified an ordinance recognizing the New Helvetia Historic District alongside 12 other properties previously owned by distinguished African Americans, officially enlisting them in the city’s Register of Historic and Cultural Resources. This decision also included a historic district plan aiming to navigate conservation alongside urban development.The district plan is designed to harmonize heritage preservation with appropriate growth, calling for the restoration of historically significant structures while enabling new constructions consistent with the area’s character—defining standards for height, design, and materials to safeguard the neighborhood's essence.The African American Experience Project significantly influenced this initiative, spearheaded by the city in 2023. Through community engagement, it pinpointed homes, businesses, and organizations integral to Sacramento’s Black heritage, culminating in nominations for the New Helvetia and additional landmarks. The council’s actions ensure that local history will be preserved for future generations while revitalizing the community.

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