A public comment period concerning the preservation of antebellum architecture in Beaufort, South Carolina has recently been opened by the National Park Service (NPS) to gather input for future projects and initiatives.
The comment period, continuing through March 4, is part of the Beaufort National Historic Landmark District Integrity and Condition Study, a Jan. 10 NPS press release said. Input will be accepted through written submissions and virtual public meetings.
“We are pleased to offer this opportunity to hear from the Beaufort community and stakeholders,” Cynthia Walton, acting regional chief of cultural resources for NPS, said in the release. “This study could help shape data-driven decision making and stewardship strategies intended to strengthen the district’s long-term health and viability as a National Historic Landmark.”
The Beaufort National Historic Landmark District was designated in 1973 due to its distinctive collection of preserved antebellum architecture, a summary of the study posted on NPS’ website said. The buildings preserved include “low-country” houses dating back to the 18th and early 19th centuries known for their two-story verandas and open interiors.
“Several buildings, foundations, and other character-defining elements of the district are built of tabby, an important regional building material composed of oyster shells, lime, and sand mixed with seawater,” the summary said.
Two public meetings were held on Jan. 18, with “a series of listening sessions with community members” to be held in the coming weeks, the release said.
Written comments will be accepted online at https://parkplanning.nps.gov/beaufort or by postal mail sent to Alesha Cerny, Attn: Beaufort NHLD Study, National Park Service, 100 Alabama Street, SW, Atlanta, Georgia, the release said. Submissions must be received or postmarked by March 4 for consideration.
“Beaufort is the second oldest town in South Carolina, originally established in 1711 on Port Royal Island, one of 65 islands comprising Beaufort County,” the City of Beaufort’s website said. “In 1969, the 304-acre area comprising the original town was listed in the National Register of Historic Places.”
