Building on the New Kentucky Home initiative, the Kentucky Heritage Council is pleased to announce the 2025 Kentucky Historic Preservation Conference will take place on May 15-16 in Newport. This year’s theme, “Pillars of Preservation: Supporting a Stronger Kentucky,” will explore the essential foundations of historic preservation across the commonwealth. The conference will focus on protection, identification, development and advocacy, offering valuable insight through keynote speakers, educational sessions, panel discussions and off-site tours.

Team Kentucky invites historic preservation professionals, advocates and enthusiasts to explore more about preserving the commonwealth’s rich cultural heritage. Attendees will gain insight into successful preservation strategies, innovative practices and emerging trends critical to preserving Kentucky’s rich heritage while fostering growth and sustainability. In addition to the educational content, the conference will offer ample networking opportunities for professionals and preservationists to collaborate. 

Registration Details Early bird pricing for two-day registration is available for $150 until April 11. Regular pricing is as follows:
Two-day registration: $175
One-day registration: $90

Keynote Speakers 

The conference will feature two nationally renowned speakers:

Joseph McGill, founder of the Slave Dwelling Project, who will share insights on preserving sites tied to African American history.

Holly Wiedemann, founder of AU Associates, Inc., known for innovative adaptive reuse projects across Kentucky.

Offsite Tours 

Attendees will also have the unique opportunity to experience guided tours of significant regional sites, including:
Newport Barracks & Evergreen Cemetery – Newport
Dinsmore Homestead – Boone County
Covington Academy of Heritage Trades – Covington
Local Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit Project Tour – Newport & Covington

This two-day event is coordinated through a partnership with the City of Newport, the City of Covington, and the Boone County Historic Preservation Review Board and will be an invaluable opportunity to connect with preservation professionals, gain practical knowledge, and explore the dynamic heritage of Northern Kentucky.

Learn more and register on our website.