Major Update: A New Chapter at Blackberry Ridge Farm

In an exciting turning point for local preservation, the J. Wilson Alexander Farm Tenant House is officially on the move!

The historic structure is being relocated to Blackberry Ridge Farm, where it will be fully restored and permanently maintained.

In addition, a recorded preservation easement by Preserve Mecklenburg Inc (PMI) ensures a secure future for the property.

After restoration, this unique piece of history will be shared with the community through future HEARTS Collaborative educational programs, ensuring its legacy is preserved for generations to come.

The Journey to Save a Piece of History

Tenant houses offer an irreplaceable glimpse into the lives of early 20th-century tenant farmers. Sadly, these structures are rapidly disappearing from the landscape due to modern development—and this historic home in Cornelius, NC, almost suffered the same fate.

The path to saving the structure has been a rollercoaster of community effort and unexpected roadblocks:

• The Initial Rescue: Local historic preservation organization Preserve Mecklenburg, Inc. (PMI) originally led the charge to save the home. Following intervention by NC State historic officials, a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) mandated that the original developer relocate and restore the building's exterior. The house was moved to a temporary corner parcel, but progress quickly stalled.

• Financial Roadblocks: Despite the developers reiterating their commitment in late 2024, financing issues brought the project to a standstill, culminating in foreclosure in January 2025.

A New Partnership: In November 2025, a new owner assumed possession of the expansive Alexander Farm site. Committed to the terms of the original MOA, they began collaborating with PMI and HEARTS on fresh restoration and fundraising plans, ultimately paving the way for its permanent relocation to Blackberry Ridge Farm.