History of the NPA

The Newburgh Preservation Association (NPA) is a nonprofit citizens membership organization dedicated to rebuilding, preserving, and promoting the architectural heritage and historic viewsheds of Newburgh, New York.

Preservation efforts began in Newburgh in the 1960s, when people first became alarmed at the destruction of historic buildings under the banner of "urban renewal." Local architect Ray Ruge, city historian Helen Gearn, and planner Barry Benepe worked tirelessly, as did local citizen groups such as Newburgh Now and the Greater Newburgh Arts Council. Preserving the Dutch Reformed Church was a major cause. Key accomplishments of these early efforts were the state's designation of the East End Historic District in 1973 and volunteer Libby Lyon's saving of "the five bricks" (Victorian houses) on Montgomery Street.

Building on these earlier efforts, the Newburgh Preservation Association was started in 1978 as a volunteer nonprofit organization. Lamenting the historic buildings already lost to "urban renewal," the NPA worked to increase public awareness of Newburgh's historic architecture and attact more residents and businesses to the older parts of the city.

NPA members bought derelict buildings without plumbing or electricity and commenced restoration. When copper pipes were installed, vandals stole them, so the new homeowners would sleep in their buildings to protect them. Those who had running water would allow the new pioneers to use their facilities. Members shared tools and knowledge on how things were constructed so restoration could be done.

Since its formation, the Newburgh Preservation Association has undertaken numerous preservation activities, including the following: