5 Things to Know About Baseline Survey Project in Butler

Hey, Butlerites! Have you ever wondered what's tucked away in the nooks and crannies of Pennsylvania's architectural history? Well, wonder no more because the Pennsylvania Baseline Survey project is here, and it's on a mission to uncover the unseen, the forgotten, and the legendary! This survey project is a 3-year effort to increase the catalog inventory at the Historical Society. Butler is on the docket in the baseline survey in year 3, which is right now.

What’s This All About?

Picture a massive archaeological dig, but instead of ancient bones, we’re hunting for architectural gems that haven’t seen the light for eons! Launched by the Pennsylvania Historic Preservation Office, this ambitious three-year architectural survey aims to document historical properties across 52 counties, scooping up forgotten histories like a pro historian’s vacuum!

Year One Highlights of the Baseline Survey

In its first year alone, the survey added over 7,000 new records to the PA-SHARE database. They zeroed in on two priority groups: African American heritage sites and ethnic properties, along with various overlooked architectural wonders. Yeah, it's kind of a big deal!

Why Does Butler Care?

Butler, pinch yourself because you're on the map for Year Three, and here's how you can jump in:

Boost Community Pride: Recognizing historical sites contributes to the community’s cultural heritage, boosting local pride and identity.

Tourism Adventures: Documented historical sites attract history buffs, increasing local tourism and economic benefits.

Preservation Funding: Proper documentation can lead to funds allocated for preservation, ensuring the community protects its unique cultural landscape for generations.

How Can the Butler Community Support The Baseline Survey?

1. Spread the Word! 

Social media is your friend, folks! Jump on that blog post, tweet about your historic next-door neighbor, or share your spooky ghost stories from ancient ruins with the hashtag #PABaselineSurvey.

2. Stake Your Claim 

Know of an ancient building or a legendary site? Make your voice heard by suggesting a property for survey consideration. It's literally a historic shout-out!

3. Be a Stakeholder: Whether you're part of a historic club, a local government body, or just someone who loves old architecture (no judgment here), get involved! Share insights, attend events, and connect with other history enthusiasts in Butler.

Here are a few of the things they are looking for…

• African American churches and cemeteries
• Places associated with racial and ethnic communities
• Places of local significance/importance as identified by local stakeholders
• Surficial archaeological evidence

They will also collect information about these types of places:

• Recreational properties
• Urban redevelopment projects
• Fraternal buildings
• Representative mid-20th century resources
• Industrial resources
• Representative commercial and residential properties of local vernacular 

Why It Matters

By participating in and supporting the Pennsylvania Baseline Survey, you’re not just a spectator; you’re contributing to a historical tapestry. You’re preserving and enriching Butler's narrative for future generations. Plus, we’re talking serious bragging rights for helping expose Pennsylvania's hidden gems. 

So dust off those local legends and let’s make some history—Butler style! You can find out more about the survey and how to contribute here.

Building for the Future in Butler

As the Historical Society uncovers more of Butler's rich historical tapestry through the Pennsylvania Baseline Survey, they’re preserving the past and helping tell the stories of rural communities across Pennsylvania. 

In rural communities like Butler, coworking spaces such as ConnectWork on Main are pivotal in charting a course for a dynamic future. They provide vital resources and foster collaboration, allowing local entrepreneurs, creatives, and professionals to come together, sharing ideas and skills that drive innovation and economic growth. 

By joining our coworking community, you tap into a network that supports the professional development and revitalization of Butler. Be a part of this exciting momentum, and help forge a future enriched by collective effort and historic inspiration. Ready to build a brighter Butler together? Get started here!