Historic Preservation Seminars Spark Local Interest
Smithfield's historic buildings and sites are at the heart of a passionate debate. Preservation Johnston County, Inc. is taking the lead in educating the community about their rich heritage and the steps to protect it. This January, they're hosting two captivating seminars that will ignite discussions on preservation techniques and the future of local history.
On January 20th, Jeff Adolphsen, a restoration expert from the North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office, will share his insights. He'll delve into the world of historic preservation, covering tax credits for rehabilitation, the criteria for historic designation, and the U.S. Secretary of the Interior's guidelines for restoring historic buildings. But here's where it gets technical: Adolphsen will also explain the process of identifying historic buildings, a crucial step in their protection. With over three decades of experience, he's the go-to person for anyone curious about the state's preservation efforts.
And the conversation continues on January 29th with Cathleen Turner, a preservation champion from Preservation NC. Turner will shed light on the legal side of preservation, including the use of covenants and easements to safeguard historic properties. Preservation NC has a unique approach—they purchase endangered properties and find investors dedicated to their rehabilitation. This controversial strategy has saved numerous historic sites, but it also raises questions about private ownership and community involvement.
Preservation Johnston County, a recently established nonprofit, is dedicated to conserving the county's historic gems. Their board comprises enthusiasts from across the county, united by a shared love for local history. These seminars, funded by the NC Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, are open to all and promise to be enlightening.
Don't miss out on these educational events! For more details, reach out to Board Chairman Todd Johnson at 919-720-8605. Stay tuned for more local news and stories by subscribing to JoCo Report.
