The Nelson House of Smithville
HEARTS Collaborative serves as an historic preservation advisor and advocate for the Smithville Community Coalition (SCC), a Cornelius, NC nonprofit dedicated to restoring and rehabilitating a historically significant African American neighborhood. In 2025, SCC purchased the early-20th century Nelson House, preventing its demolition and the loss of an important piece of community heritage.
HEARTS is helping the SCC to preserve, restore, and revitalize the Nelson House, facilitating critical repairs and guiding the design and installation of upgraded building systems to ensure the house is safe, functional, and historically accurate.
Working with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Historic Landmarks Commission, HEARTS is assisting SCC in pursuing local historic landmark designation and a future preservation easement for the property. These measures will ensure the Nelson House stands for future generations in Smithville.
The project is currently underway, and additional donations are needed. Stay tuned for updates and progress photos as the restoration continues.
Smithville Legacy Project
Help preserve Smithville’s heritage by purchasing an engraved Legacy Walkway brick or by sponsoring the restoration and ongoing care of the historic Nelson House. Your contribution directly supports these meaningful projects, bolsters community connections, and helps ensure a vibrant, well-preserved future for residents and visitors for generations to come.