Lincoln School Legacy Project:
Project Phases
The Lincoln School Legacy Project is restoring one of Kirksville’s most important cultural landmarks — not only as a historic structure, but as a living space for education, reflection, and community connection. Our phased approach ensures responsible stewardship, transparent progress, and long‑term sustainability as we work to preserve the legacy of Black education in Kirksville.
Before restoration can begin, the Lincoln School must be secured under an organization dedicated to its preservation and future use.
This phase includes:
- Forming a Missouri nonprofit corporation
- Raising funds to purchase the property and cover initial maintenance
- Purchasing the Lincoln School
- Applying for federal 501(c)(3) status
This foundational step ensures the project is legally, financially, and structurally prepared for long‑term success.
Phase 1:
Mission Focused Ownership
Recognizing the Lincoln School as a protected historic site honors its significance and ensures its story is preserved for future generations.
This phase includes:
- Securing local historic landmark designation through the City of Kirksville
- Funding and installing an educational marker on the property
- Funding the addition of the Lincoln School to the Kirksville Historical Audio Tour
These efforts formally acknowledge the school’s role in the era of segregation and its importance to Missouri’s educational history.
Phase 2:
Historical Landmark Establishment
With ownership and recognition in place, the next step is restoring the building’s exterior to its historic character.
This phase includes:
- Designing the exterior restoration plan
- Securing grants and fundraising for construction
- Obtaining approvals from the Kirksville Historic Preservation Commission & City Council
- Selecting contractors and completing exterior work
This work stabilizes the structure and restores the school’s original appearance.
Phase 3:
Exterior Renovation
The grounds surrounding the school will become a welcoming, reflective space that complements the building’s educational mission.
This phase includes:
- Designing landscaping and green space improvements
- Securing grants and fundraising
- Selecting contractors and completing the work
The outdoor environment will support community gatherings, educational programming, and quiet reflection.
Phase 4:
Landscaping & Green Space Development
The interior of the Lincoln School will be restored with care, honoring its history while preparing it for modern educational use.
This phase includes:
- Defining the long‑term purpose and programming for reshaping the space
- Establishing a sustainable plan for maintenance and operations
- Designing the interior according to historic records and future needs
- Securing grants and fundraising
- Selecting contractors and completing interior work
This phase transforms the building into a functional, meaningful public space.
Phase 5:
Interior Renovation
Once restored, the Lincoln School will reopen as a community resource dedicated to education, reflection, and celebration.
This phase includes:
- Opening the space for public use as defined in the mission
- Hosting educational programs, community events, and historical exhibits
- Providing a place where visitors can learn about segregation, resilience, and the leaders who shaped the Lincoln School’s legacy
This final phase brings the project’s purpose to life — creating a space that honors the past while inspiring a more inclusive future.
Phase 6:
Public Use & Mission Fulfillment