The Granite Schoolhouse, the last remaining historic building tied to a once-thriving community of Black granite workers in South Richmond, tops the list of Virginia’s Most Endangered Historic Places for 2025.

Preservation Virginia announced the list May 15 as part of National Historic Preservation Month. It features 10 individual locations and one thematic nomination — all sites facing significant threats ranging from neglect and development to the rapid expansion of data centers.

The Granite Schoolhouse stands as the final historic structure in the Granite neighborhood, home to descendants of enslaved and emancipated miners who helped build granite infrastructure in Richmond, Washington, D.C., and New York. The schoolhouse annex, formerly a venue for weddings and community events, is now the focus of a preservation push by the Granite Community Foundation. The nonprofit seeks to acquire the building from the city and repurpose it for public programs, but additional funding is needed to realize that goal.

“I’m excited about it,” said Edwin Minter, founder and director of the Granite Community foundation, when asked about the Granite Schoolhouse making the list. “It’s a blessing that the elders that’s still living today to get to actually witness this.”

Since its launch, the endangered list has spotlighted more than 200 sites, with a preservation success rate of 90%, according to the organization.

Other sites on this year’s list include Westham Train Station (Richmond) – Originally built in 1911 and relocated in 1963, the former C&O Railway station served Richmond’s West End and later became a visitors center. Now abandoned, the station is at risk from nearby redevelopment.

“This year’s list highlights sites across the state that represent not just architecture, but deep stories of labor, culture and community,” said Will Glasco, CEO of Preservation Virginia. “Raising awareness is a first step, but it is critical that we work together to preserve these locations before they’re gone.”

Other sites on the list include the Goochland Recreational Center in Goochland County. Founded by Black residents in 1961 during segregation, the center served as a cultural and recreational hub. Aging infrastructure and limited funding now threaten its future.

The Harding Street Agricultural Center in Petersburg was once operated by Virginia State University and is also on the list. The mid-century facility helped address local food insecurity. A nonprofit group is working to acquire the site and revitalize it as a hub for youth outreach and agriculture education.

Also included is Ascension Church in Mecklenburg County which was built in 1879 and marks the first major contribution of James Solomon Russell, founder of Saint Paul’s College and a saint of the Episcopal Church. The structure requires roof and foundation repairs, along with flood prevention work.

For the full list of endangered sites, visit preservationvirginia.org.