ELMIRA, N.Y. (WENY) -- The historic George and Theodora Bragg House in Elmira has been nominated by New York State for the State and Federal Register of Historic Places. The House is one of 20 locations nominated by the that also include John Steinbeck's writing cottage on Long Island, a small surviving commercial historic district in Buffalo, and more. 

“We are committed to working to expand and diversify our state’s listings on the registers of historic places so that our communities know that New York recognizes the importance of documenting our whole history," said New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation commissioner pro tempore Randy Simons in a statement.

The George and Theodora Bragg House is located in the eastside neighborhood and is described as a modest 1890s Queen Anne style House. The Braggs purchased the home in the mid 1950s, and quickly made an impact on their community. 

George was president of the Elmira NAACP and remains the only black man to run for mayor in the City under the Democratic ticket. Theodora was a founding member of the Nannie Burroughs Club. 

George also served for years on the City Housing Authority. The state says the nomination is a recognition of the couple's civic engagement. 

As it stands, there are 128,00 properties across New York are listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Once a property is nominated, it is then reviewed by the National Park Service. 

"With listing in the State and National Registers of Historic Places, sites become eligible for preservation resources, such as matching grants and federal and state historic incentive programs. This collaborative effort and investment makes such a difference in neighborhoods and communities across the state and we’re proud to facilitate this important work," said Simons. 

Preserving history in New York State isn't just about the past, it's become big business. According to New York, the Empire State leads the nation in the use of historic tax credits, with $7.17 billion in total rehabilitation costs from 2018-2024. That has led to significant investment and new jobs according to the State.