Recently, Louisiana Trust for Historic Preservation recognized 12 people, projects, and organizations who are championing the cause of historic preservation across the state – and Minden Main Street is on that list.
“Their efforts are impactful in helping to save historic places as well as build pride and engagement in their communities,” a Louisiana Trust spokesperson wrote on their website.
“Receiving this recognition is incredibly humbling,” Minden Main Street/Economic Development Director Sarah Overall said. “Over the last year, I have had the privilege of working alongside an amazing Mainstreet board, historic commission, dedicated volunteers, supportive city leadership, and passionate business owners who care deeply about downtown Minden. This award belongs to all of them.”
Overall says every event, beautification project, new business opening, and volunteer hour has helped move the district forward.
“We are grateful to the Louisiana Trust for Historic Preservation for recognizing those efforts and for supporting the important work of preserving Louisiana’s historic downtowns,” she added.
Minden Mayor Nick Cox agrees with Overall.
“This is a great honor for Minden,” he said. “Our downtown is the heart of our community, and this recognition reflects the hard work of our Main Street team, business owners, volunteers, and everyone who has invested in preserving what makes Minden special while moving our city forward.
“I especially want to thank Main Street Director Sarah Overall for her outstanding leadership, along with those who served in this role before her and the many volunteers and board members who have worked tirelessly over the years,” Cox continued. “Awards like this don’t happen overnight. They are the result of years of dedication by people who care deeply about Minden and believe in the future of our downtown.”
Main Street Award recognizes a Main Street community that exemplifies the strategic use of creativity, historic preservation, &/or culture to build a climate for cultural expression, improve quality of life, enhance existing assets, & strengthen economic opportunity while representing the quality of the area.
Louisiana Trust describes Minden Main Street as having experienced accelerated growth in recent years, with increased job creation from six new businesses, volunteer participation at over 20 community events, and $1.2 million in public and private investments in preservation projects and infrastructure improvements in 2025.
Minden was spotlighted in the popular HGTV show, Home Town Kickstart, which helped boost revitalization efforts and generate strong investment. A designated Louisiana Main Street Community, Minden Main Street is committed to preserving the town’s rich history by fostering economic growth and preserving its historic built environment.
In the coming weeks, Louisiana Trust will be highlighting each of the honorees and their commitment to saving Louisiana’s irreplaceable historic places.