by Katie Stamps
While saving old buildings is a central goal within the field of historic preservation, fostering connections between historically significant structures and their surrounding communities is also vitally important. For preservation to be truly successful, historic buildings must not only be saved for the sake of future generations, but also experienced by people today. Downtowns often have a high density of historic structures, and this makes them an ideal setting to host events that can reinforce a community’s bond to the buildings that are a fundamental part of their heritage.
Downtowns are the heart and soul for many cities, where residents shop, dine, and gather for community events. Huntsville’s historic downtown is no different. The historic buildings, local shops and restaurants, pedestrian walkability, and overall intimate setting of downtown Huntsville is so different, almost foreign, from everywhere else in the city and surrounding suburbs. People are continually searching for something unique, off the beaten path, and the distinctiveness of downtown Huntsville makes the area an attraction in and of itself.
 "Cotton Row," West Side • Courthouse Square • Huntsville, Alabama • circa 1950 (source: http://www.lib.auburn.edu/archive/find-aid/356.htm) |
 South Side • Courthouse Square • Huntsville, Alabama • circa 1867 (source: http://www.lib.auburn.edu/archive/find-aid/356.htm) |
The Sidewalk Arts Stroll is a great way to experience Huntsville’s built legacy first-hand while interacting with neighbors, creating memories, and nurturing a connection to the city. This event gives people a chance to personally experience and appreciate the culture and history of our fair city. Quite simply, it is an opportunity not to be missed.
 Courthouse Square • Huntsville, Alabama • circa 2011 |
 Courthouse Square bustling with patrons of the arts • circa 2010 (source: blog.al.com) |
