Superman Building Gets National Recognition

This spring, the National Trust for Historic Preservation published its 2019 list of America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places. This annual list highlights examples of the nation’s architectural and cultural heritage which is at risk of destruction or suffers from irreparable damage.

This year the Industrial Trust Building at 111 Westminster Street was placed on this list. Known locally as the Superman Building, this building was completed in 1928 and is a classic example of Art Deco architecture. Vacant for six years, its only tenants are the Peregrine Falcons who nest at the top of this building each spring.

The Providence Foundation’s Executive Director Cliff Wood spoke about the importance this building has to the health of our downtown at a recent press conference with the Providence Preservation Society. “The interrelationship between our public and private space is critical, if people are not engaged on both sides we will not succeed.” He spoke passionately about the need for Rhode Islanders to come together to encourage investment in this historic building.

Learn more about this year’s 11 Most list on the Saving Places website, and join the conversation by using the hashtag #11Most on social media. Have a favorite photo of this iconic building? Share you favorites with #SaveSupermanRI.