This weekend, Selma’s historic homes, museums, a church and other sites were open to guests during the 32nd Historic Pilgrimage & Antique Show.

Sponsored by the Selma-Dallas County Historic Preservation Society, the event began in 1976 as a way to recognize and share the city’s variety of architectural styles and rich history.

This is the opportunity for the city to hang out the welcome sign and show off the many jewels that make up this city.

As the state’s second oldest city, Selma has a large historic district that features more than 1,200 structures, some dating back to the 1820s.

There have been a full schedule of activities all weekend, with ghost tours at Old Live Oak Cemetery on Friday and Saturday night, art shows at the Harmony Club and the Art Guild, an antique show and an antique car show.

Activities continue through today and tickets are available at the Vaughan-Smitherman Museum, 109 Union St.

We congratulate the Historic Preservation Society on its 32nd annual Pilgrimage.

The gems that make up this community must be preserved. First of all, for their historic and aesthetic value alone.

But, also because the city’s historic buildings are also a tourist draw for thousands of visitors each year.

The city of Selma

currently offers grants for those who renovate downtown businesses.

But we must do more to encourage renovation and restoration of historic buildings and homes.

Support Pilgrimage and encourage those who are working to preserve Selma’s beauty.