Best Historic Preservation Organization: Historic Preservation Association of Coral Gables

Coral Gables is a city where history isn’t confined to a museum. It is in the entrances we drive through, the fountains we pass, the Mediterranean Revival homes lining residential streets, the villages George Merrick envisioned and the landmarks that give the City Beautiful much of its identity. For 35 years, the Historic Preservation Association of Coral Gables has worked to make sure those pieces of the city’s story aren’t simply admired, but understood, protected and preserved.

Founded in 1991, the Historic Preservation Association of Coral Gables, or HPACG, is a nonprofit organization devoted specifically to the historic and cultural heritage of Coral Gables. Its mission centers on helping residents understand the importance of historic resources and advocating for their preservation. That focus has made the organization a consistent presence wherever the future of the city’s past is being discussed.

Its work can be seen throughout the Gables. HPACG has supported preservation and restoration efforts involving landmarks including the De Soto Fountain, Granada Boulevard entrances, Coral Way-Granada fountains, Country Club Prado entrance and the historic White Way Lights. The organization has contributed financially to restoration and educational efforts, supported historical markers, promoted local landmark designations and helped establish Coral Gables Founder’s Day. It has also published material documenting the city’s architecture and history.

Much of that work happens away from the spotlight. HPACG reports that it maintains a presence at monthly City Commission and Historic Preservation Board meetings, submitting letters and speaking on preservation matters affecting neighborhoods and historic resources. Volunteers also organize lectures, historic-home events, educational programs, commemorations and other opportunities that bring Gableites together around the city’s history.

Perhaps the organization’s greatest contribution is persistence. Historic preservation rarely happens with a single meeting or letter. Projects can take years or even decades. The restoration of Coral Gables’ historic White Way Lights, a signature preservation effort for HPACG, is a fitting example. Those distinctive lights were designated a City Historic Landmark Site in 1981, and the long-running effort to preserve and restore them culminated in a major restoration celebrated in 2025.

As Coral Gables moves into its second century, growth and preservation will continue to share the same streets. Having residents willing to study the city’s history, show up at meetings, advocate for its landmarks and remind new generations why these places matter is an important part of keeping the Gables the Gables. For 35 years of volunteer leadership and an unwavering commitment to protecting the historic character of the City Beautiful, the Historic Preservation Association of Coral Gables is the Coral Gables Gazette’s selection for Best Historic Preservation Organization.