The SAHP Has a New Home!

The Alliance has a physical office space for the first time in our history!

SAHP Joins the Historical Society of Sarasota County in Pioneer Park

The Sarasota Alliance for Historic Preservation (SAHP) is proud to announce that we have joined the Historical Society of Sarasota County (HSOSC) in Pioneer Park, marking an exciting new chapter for our organization.

We are now subleasing space from HSOSC in the historic Bidwell Wood House at 1260 12th Street, Sarasota — one of Sarasota’s oldest surviving homes. This location also includes the nearby Crocker Memorial Church, both lovingly stewarded by HSOSC. Together, these historic structures serve as vibrant community anchors, and we are thrilled to call this site our new home .

Synergies in Preservation

Our move to Pioneer Park creates natural synergies between SAHP and HSOSC, two organizations deeply committed to protecting Sarasota’s history.

• By co-locating, we are strengthening Sarasota’s preservation community and creating more opportunities to collaborate.

• Pioneer Park offers an inspiring setting for our programs and outreach, surrounded by some of the city’s most iconic historic landmarks.

• Together, HSOSC and SAHP will be able to enhance education, advocacy, and public engagement around the value of historic preservation.

A Home for the Sarasota Preservation Program (SP2)

The space in the Bidwell Wood House will be the working base for Erin DiFazio, Managing Director of SAHP’s Sarasota Preservation Program (SP2). From this historic setting, Erin will:

• Meet with clients and property owners

• Conduct interviews and preservation consultations

• Host committee gatherings and small events

Since 2016, Erin has played an instrumental role at SAHP as a volunteer, board member, and consultant, and now as the full-time leader of SP2. With more than $300,000 in capital raised since 2022, SP2 has evolved from concept to implementation, offering revolving loans and preservation easements that help property owners protect Sarasota’s architectural heritage .

Looking Ahead

Our new home in Pioneer Park reflects SAHP’s growth and professionalization as we continue to expand our impact across Sarasota County. We are grateful to HSOSC and the City of Sarasota for welcoming us into this historic setting, and we look forward to building new collaborations that celebrate and preserve the places that make our community unique.