Photo credit: First Presbyterian Church/Facebook

 

(KAIR)--A historic Atchison church could soon receive state and national recognition.

First Presbyterian Church, located at 302 North Fifth Street, will be considered for nomination to both the Register of Historic Kansas Places and the National Register of Historic Places. The Kansas Historic Sites Board of Review is scheduled to take up the nominations during its next meeting on Saturday, February 7th.

If approved, the listing would formally recognize the church’s historic significance and provide protections under the Kansas Historic Preservation Act, particularly in cases where federal projects could impact the property. Officials emphasize that national register status does not place restrictions on private ownership, require public access, or allow the federal government to take control of the property.

In addition, listing could make the church eligible for state and federal historic rehabilitation tax credits, as well as grants through the Heritage Trust Fund, should restoration or preservation work be undertaken.

A final decision is expected following the board’s February meeting.

The matter was included among communications from Atchison City Manager Mark Westhoff during the January 5 meeting of the City Commission.