News Summary

Two prominent nonprofit organizations, Save Our Cemeteries (SOC) and the Preservation Resource Center (PRC), have merged to boost efforts in preserving New Orleans’ historic sites. The merger, announced on March 14, 2025, aims to enhance education, restoration, and outreach efforts for the city’s iconic cemeteries. The official kickoff event is set for April 6, 2025, during the 24th Annual Run/Walk Through History fundraiser. This collaboration signifies a renewed commitment to protecting the unique heritage of New Orleans.

New Orleans Welcomes Historic Merger

Exciting changes are on the horizon in the heart of New Orleans as two prominent nonprofit organizations have decided to join forces in a bid to enhance the preservation of the city’s historic treasures. Save Our Cemeteries (SOC) has officially merged with the Preservation Resource Center (PRC), marking a new chapter in the efforts to protect and revitalize the charming historic sites that make New Orleans so unique.

A New Partnership for Preservation

The big announcement came on March 14, 2025, when both SOC and PRC released a joint statement declaring their exciting merger. This alliance does not only reflect a combined passion for preservation but also promises to turbocharge PRC’s outreach efforts when it comes to maintaining the rich history of the city’s iconic sites. With the merging of these two organizations, the goal is clear: to enhance education, preservation, and restoration projects that will spotlight New Orleans’ distinct heritage.

Both SOC and PRC have been dedicated to their missions since they were founded as 501(c)(3) nonprofits back in 1974. While SOC began its journey by focusing on saving the wall vaults of St. Louis Cemetery No. 2, its efforts have since expanded to include improving the conditions of over 40 historic cemeteries across the city. This includes restoring tombs, advocating for cemetery protection, teaching proper tomb care, and educating the public about the fascinating history entwined within New Orleans cemeteries.

More Resources, More Impact

The merger means that SOC can now tap into a wider array of resources offered by PRC. Aulston Taylor, the board president at PRC, is buzzing with enthusiasm about adding the historic cemeteries to their preservation focus. The consolidation allows for a more robust approach in safeguarding these sacred spaces, ensuring that they continue to be well-maintained for future generations.

As part of this merging process, PRC plans to hire a dedicated full-time department director responsible for overseeing operations. This strategic move is expected to streamline the efforts and enhance the overall impact of their work, ultimately leading to a more significant commitment to the preservation and enhancement of historic sites throughout New Orleans.

Continuing the Legacy

One of the most heartwarming aspects of the merger is the continued involvement of former SOC President, Sally Asher. She will be transitioning to the PRC board while leading a cemetery advisory committee, ensuring that the invaluable expertise and passion for preservation continues to flow uninterrupted.

The official kickoff of this merger will take place on April 6, 2025, with the much-anticipated 24th Annual Run/Walk Through History fundraiser at the equally historic Metairie Cemetery. It’s a perfect way to raise funds and awareness while celebrating the newly forged alliance.

The excitement does not stop there! Celebrations are set to continue on May 21, 2025, during PRC’s annual meeting, where Asher will share insights into the history and current state of New Orleans’ magnificent historic cemeteries.

Explore New Orleans’ Historic Places

For those eager to delve deeper into the rich narratives surrounding these historic locations, PRC will provide opportunities for guided tours of Metairie Cemetery, St. Louis No. 3, St. Roch, and other notable historic sites. This is a fantastic chance for locals and tourists alike to connect with the history that lies just beneath the surface of this vibrant city.

To sum it all up, the merger of Save Our Cemeteries with the Preservation Resource Center heralds a new era of revitalization and passion for preserving New Orleans’ storied past. This collaboration is a testament to how, together, we can protect and cherish our city’s unique heritage while inviting everyone to explore the beauty and elegance that historic cemeteries represent.