Mystery Castle in Phoenix among America's 11 most endangered historic places in 2025

In a recent announcement, the National Trust for Historic Preservation identified the Mystery Castle, a unique architectural gem located in Phoenix, Arizona, as one of 'America's 11 Most Endangered Historic Places' for 2025. Built in the 1930s by an untrained architect using found materials, the Mystery Castle has become a quirky roadside attraction over the years but has since fallen into disrepair, making it susceptible to demolition. The National Trust's CEO, Carol Quillen, emphasized the importance of such sites in American history, reminding us that our individual stories matter a great deal. Alongside the Mystery Castle, this year’s list featured other locations at risk due to various threats including natural disasters and neglect, highlighting the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene, which devastated Cedar Key in Florida, and other sites affected in North Carolina. Notably, the list represents not just individual buildings but entire communities facing the consequences of environmental changes and neglect. This includes the Pamunkey Indian Reservation in Virginia, which has been threatened by rising sea levels, and Terminal Island's historic buildings that serve as reminders of the Japanese American community's history during WWII, now facing potential demolition by the Port of Los Angeles. The importance of preserving these historical sites is underscored during discussions about their potential repurposing for community benefit, demonstrating how local efforts can unite to protect history amidst adversity. Moreover, the list has sparked conversations about the broader implications of preserving cultural heritage in the face of modern developments. The collective voice of the communities, along with dedicated historical organizations, aims to focus attention on these endangered structures and push for necessary funding and advocacy to preserve these sites for future generations, as they represent valuable narratives and lessons from our past.