If you’re the proud owner of one of Trenton’s historic houses, stay tuned to find out how you can restore and improve your home with the help of the Trenton Historical Society.
Since 2007, the Trenton Historical Society has offered the Restore Trenton! Historic Property Rehabilitation Grant Program, funded by proceeds from THS’ annual Stop the Wrecking Ball fundraiser held in November. Each summer, the David Collier Fund funds are awarded to homeowners to preserve and restore eligible properties in the City of Trenton. This program is designed to aid homeowners in funding façade repairs and exterior work for qualifying units in the city’s historic housing stock.
To qualify, the property must be located within Trenton city limits and at least 50 years old. Preference is given to homeowners who reside within one of the city’s historic districts and act as individual property on the city, state, or national registers of historic places. Funding for the home’s exterior may include rehabilitation, restoration, and significant architectural details and feature repairs. Priority is given to projects involving the structure’s most visible façades. Examples of qualifying projects include but are not limited to:
- Restoration of existing architectural features
- Replacement of missing architectural features
- Exterior painting
- Brick and Masonry repairs (includes major re-pointing, not stuccoing)
- Chimney repair
- Door repair/replacement
- Window repair/replacement but not vinyl or aluminum Railing repair/replacement
- Porch support repair/replacement
- Roof repairs
- Exterior weatherization of the building
Qualifying projects are selected by the Society’s Preservation Committee members, which you can read more about here: Preservation – THS. Winning projects can receive $1,000-$4,000, dispersed between two stages. First, funds will be allocated at 50% and 100% completion, both contingent upon approval following an inspection. Applicants are responsible for complying with all City, State, and Federal requirements for permits and licenses, and projects must be completed within 12 months of the award.
If you’re ready to start, submit your application here: Apply – Restore Trenton! All applications are due by Monday, May 15th, 2023. You will need to include photos of the property, as well as the areas in need of repair. You will also need to have estimates for the costs of labor and materials. Only completed applications will be considered. Applicants will be notified of their grant status by June 2023.
This project is spearheaded by the Trenton Historical Society, a non-profit organization committed to studying and interpreting Trenton’s rich history. Their three core priorities, artifacts, education, and preservation, help to uphold and inspire interest in the fascinating people, places, and things that have shaped the Capital City. If you’d like to read more about their endeavors and how you can support THS, you can check out their website here: Home – Trenton Historical Society.
If you’re ready to restore your home to its historic glory, the Trenton Historical Society is here with a helping hand. Any questions regarding your application may be directed to THS at society@trentonhistory.org or by calling (609) 396-4478. So don’t let this incredible opportunity pass you by; apply today!
