Wilberforce University Historic District Listed on National Register of Historic Places
Wilberforce University’s Historic District has officially been listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the nation’s list of historic properties worthy of preservation, according to a university press release.
Wilberforce University, founded in 1856, was the nation’s first private historically Black college and university (HBCU) and the first college entirely owned and operated by African Americans. For 170 years, the University has educated generations of leaders who have made lasting contributions to education, ministry, public service, business, science, the military and the arts.
Original campus of Wilberforce University. Photo from Wilberforce University.
The designation, effective April 27, 2026, recognizes the UNCF-member institution’s extraordinary historical, educational, architectural and cultural significance to the State of Ohio and the nation. This recognition honors the significance of the University’s buildings, landscapes and institutional heritage and enhances opportunities for historic preservation, research, heritage tourism, educational partnerships and future preservation funding.
“This designation represents far more than the preservation of historic buildings,” said Dr. Vann R. Newkirk, Sr., president, Wilberforce University. “It honors the remarkable legacy of generations who believed that education could transform lives and advance freedom. Wilberforce has long stood as a beacon of faith, scholarship, resilience and leadership. We are grateful that this national recognition affirms our place in American history while inspiring us to continue preparing future generations of servant leaders.”
The nomination was completed as part of the University’s compliance with its 2023 HBCU Historic Preservation Grant, awarded by the National Park Service’s Historic Preservation Fund. As a condition of the grant, Wilberforce University completed the extensive research, documentation and nomination process required for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. The grant has enabled the rehabilitation of several historic campus buildings, which will preserve the University’s historic character and modernize facilities to support teaching and student success.
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