6 Steps to

PLAN A BUILDING’S FUNERAL

1. Research the building.Gathering information, historic photographs, and video or audio clips that feature the building will be the core of the narrative for the obituary and event promotion.

2. Invite participants.Balance preservation or architecture experts with individuals who can offer a more personal perspective. Consider architects or people who lived or worked in the building.

3. Compose and publish an obituary.Write it as you would for a person: When was the building born? Who were its parent/designers? What inspired the building, and how will it be remembered? Does it have key features or personality traits? How did it spend its career? How did it die?

4. Focus on the logistics.Determine the exact location of the funeral and a spot to meetup after. Arrange for music, live or recorded. Don’t forget PA equipment, a wreath, and a large picture of the building at its prime.

5. Don’t forget about marketing.This kind of event is made for the media, so spend time making a Facebook event, email your network, and share through social media. Think about including a hashtag too.

6. Document the funeral.Arrange for a photographer or videographer. Your city archives or library may be interested in keeping your documents in their files.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation works to save America’s historic places. Preservation Tips & Tools helps others do the same in their own communities.

For more information, visit SavingPlaces.org.

Photo credits: Christian Scully/Design Imaging Studios