A new and highly visible project is under way to bring more history to Beaufort’s streets with a plaque program designed for owners of historic structures to indicate the historic name of their properties and the date they were built. Sponsored by Historic Beaufort Foundation, the plaque program is part of an educational outreach that will result by the end of the year in the re-publication of “A Guide to Historic Beaufort,” the Foundation’s seminal work on the National Historic Landmark District.
The plaques are hand-cast bronze, oval-shaped and measure seven inches by 10 inches. The historical name of the house, the date of its construction and HBF’s name will appear.
Debated by HBF for a number of years, the project was jumpstarted recently by discussions with the Beaufort Regional Visitors Center which has been searching for more ways to engage visitors in Beaufort’s history. It grew from discussions in the research committee which is re-writing the Guidebook and developing a new map of the Landmark District.
For the first year, the plaques will be available to HBF members for $200. each, plus $10.95 shipping, and to non-members for $250. each, plus shipping. Non-members will gain a one-year HBF membership with their purchase. A grant program for property owners of limited means and for buildings in the core commercial district is being planned.
More details about the program are available by calling 843-379-3331. Samples can be seen at HBF headquarters at 208 Scott Street or at www.historicbeaufort.org.
