Huntsville, AL, October 11, 2025
News Summary
Huntsville city officials have approved a $35,000 project to nominate Magnolia Terrace and Brothers Heights/Gurley Additions for the National Register of Historic Places. Funded partly by an Alabama Historical Commission grant, this initiative will evaluate over 250 properties located north of Holmes Avenue and west of Pulaski Pike. The project aims to preserve the cultural heritage of these neighborhoods, showcasing their historical significance within Huntsville’s Black community.
Huntsville city officials have approved a project to prepare National Register of Historic Places nominations for two neighborhoods, Magnolia Terrace and Brothers Heights/Gurley Additions. This initiative aims to document and evaluate more than 250 properties located north of Holmes Avenue and west of Pulaski Pike.
The total project cost is estimated at $35,000, with funding provided through a Certified Local Government grant from the Alabama Historical Commission. This grant will cover 60% of the project costs, while the city will contribute the remaining 40%.
The neighborhoods of Magnolia Terrace and Brothers Heights/Gurley Additions differ significantly in terms of age, architecture, and community identity. This project builds upon the city’s ongoing efforts to preserve historically significant sites within Huntsville’s Black community, aligning with previously preserved sites such as the Normal Historic District, Edmonton Heights, and Glenwood Cemetery.
City officials believe that the National Register nominations will formally recognize the cultural and historical significance of both neighborhoods. This step is seen as vital to ensuring the preservation of these neighborhoods for future generations, highlighting their unique contributions to Huntsville’s rich cultural tapestry.
Project Overview
The National Register of Historic Places nominations project for Magnolia Terrace and Brothers Heights/Gurley Additions is focused on:
- Total Project Cost: $35,000
- Funding Sources: 60% from Alabama Historical Commission grant, 40% from local city funds
- Number of Properties Evaluated: Over 250
- Location: North of Holmes Avenue, West of Pulaski Pike
Significance of the Neighborhoods
These two neighborhoods exemplify unique aspects of Huntsville’s history and community development. Magnolia Terrace features architectural styles that reflect the cultural influences of the time, while Brothers Heights/Gurley Additions tells a different narrative rich in history and community identity. The initiative to nominate them for historic recognition is imperative not only for preserving their stories but also for instilling pride in current residents.
Preservation Efforts in Huntsville
This latest project is part of a larger effort by Huntsville city officials to recognize and protect historically significant sites, particularly within the Black community. Significant sites like the Normal Historic District, Edmonton Heights, and Glenwood Cemetery have been preserved in recent years, showcasing the city’s dedication to honoring its diverse history.
Community Impact
The proposed National Register listings are expected to foster a greater understanding of the neighborhoods’ cultural heritage among residents and visitors. Recognition in the National Register can also bring potential funding opportunities for future restoration and maintenance projects, ensuring these neighborhoods remain vibrant parts of the community.
Conclusion
The approval of this project marks a significant step forward in the city’s commitment to historical preservation. By documenting the heritage of Magnolia Terrace and Brothers Heights/Gurley Additions, Huntsville aims to safeguard these neighborhoods’ cultural and historical narratives for generations to come.
FAQs
What neighborhoods are targeted for National Register nominations in Huntsville?
The project targets two neighborhoods: Magnolia Terrace and Brothers Heights/Gurley Additions.
What is the total cost of the project for preparing the nominations?
The total project cost is $35,000.
How is the project funded?
Funding for the project comes from a Certified Local Government grant from the Alabama Historical Commission, covering 60% of the project costs, with the city providing the remaining 40%.
How many properties will be documented and evaluated?
The project aims to document and evaluate more than 250 properties across the two neighborhoods.
Why are these nominations important?
The National Register nominations will formally acknowledge the neighborhoods’ cultural and historical significance, helping ensure their preservation for future generations.
Key Features of the Project
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Targeted Neighborhoods | Magnolia Terrace, Brothers Heights/Gurley Additions |
| Total Project Cost | $35,000 |
| Grant Funding | 60% |
| City Contribution | 40% |
| Properties Evaluated | More than 250 |
| Cultural Significance | Formally acknowledges neighborhoods’ importance |
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Additional Resources
- Rocket City Now: Huntsville Historic Preservation
- AL.com: Huntsville Train Depot Input
- WAFF: Huntsville Depot Planning Process
- Huntsville Business Journal: Depot Planning
- Wikipedia: Huntsville, Alabama
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER
The HUNTSVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHuntsville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntsville, Madison County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Panoply Arts Festival, Rocket City Brewfest, and Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, plus leading businesses in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Boeing, SAIC, and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBirmingham.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
