When it comes to raising funds for historical preservation, we're encouraged to see goals reached and surpassed.

Historic preservation protects historic treasures for future generations. The acquisition and rehabilitation of historic properties, ranging from buildings to battlefields, are also a resource for economic development that can revitalize neighborhoods and downtowns.This being the 150th anniversary of the end of the Civil War, we were pleased to hear that the Civil War Trust, a nonprofit, raised $52 million over four years, surpassing its $40 million goal in a campaign to protect 64 battlefields in 16 states. Dubbed "Campaign 150: Our Time, Our Legacy," the funds raised will be used to protect more than 10,000 acres of battlefields.The Civil War Trust has preserved 41,000 battlefield acres in 20 states since its creation in Fredericksburg, Virginia, in 1987.Since its establishment by the state General Assembly in 1982, Preservation Pennsylvania, a nonprofit membership organization, has focused on protecting and preserving the state's historic places.Counties in the central-eastern Pennsylvania region have also been active. In January, the 140-year-old Northumberland County Prison was heavily damaged by fire.County officials determined the old structure too damaged to be rehabilitated, and the commissioners have been seeking a site to rebuild the historic facility.One member of the Northumberland County Historical Society said the structure should be kept even if the prison isn't rebuilt since it brings people together and is a source of community pride.Groups in our area, such as the various county and township historical associations, are also crucial to local preservation efforts.Last month, a Times News feature spotlighted The Schuylkill Historical Fire Society Museum, a hands-on facility on Shenandoah that showcases the proud history of Schuylkill County firefighting.The museum, which depends on donations, is an invaluable tool for researchers and school groups.Preservationists who are on the front lines in trying to protect our history for future generations should be commended.By JIM ZBICKtneditor@tnonline.com