An evaluation opens doors for future funding sources for building improvements.

​

CHALLENGE

In 2022, the City of Champlin received a Minnesota Historical and Cultural Heritage Grant (“Legacy Grant”) to evaluate the Dunning School’s eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). Constructed in 1876, the former one-room schoolhouse was the only way that many children living in the township’s rural areas could receive a formal education. It has been well maintained by the community over the past 150 years and is a much valued resource. However, it was unclear if the property would be eligible for National Register listing.

SUCCESS

New History completed thorough historical research to demonstrate the building’s historical significance, leading the Minnesota State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) to recommend the property as eligible for the NRHP for its association with rural education in Champlin Township. New History’s work has positioned the property for potential National Register listing and its associated benefits, including additional grant funding for condition assessments and physical improvements to facilitate continued community use of this important resource.