Historic Preservation in Johnston County: A Vital Conversation Awaits!
SMITHFIELD – This month, Preservation Johnston County, Inc. is excited to announce the hosting of two engaging seminars focused on historic preservation at the Johnston County Museum, located at 329 E. Market Street in Smithfield. These events are not just informative; they are essential for anyone interested in safeguarding our heritage.
On Tuesday, January 20, at 7 pm, attendees will have the opportunity to hear from Jeff Adolphsen, an expert from the North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office. His presentation will cover a range of critical topics, including the benefits of historic rehabilitation tax credits, guidelines for identifying whether a building qualifies as historic, the process involved in applying for historic designation, and the standards set by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior for rehabilitating historic structures.
Adolphsen, originally from Maryland, has dedicated his career to the state preservation office since 1990. He serves as a restoration specialist for the southeastern region of North Carolina, which includes Johnston County. His impressive credentials include authoring the North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources Landscape Management Plan, and he plays a key role in offering technical support to individuals engaged in the rehabilitation and restoration of historic properties.
Then, on Thursday, January 29, at 7 pm, the spotlight will be on Cathleen Turner from Preservation NC. She will discuss her organization's critical efforts to safeguard historic properties through legal mechanisms like covenants and easements. Preservation NC has also been proactive in rescuing endangered historic sites by purchasing them and subsequently connecting them with buyers who are committed to their restoration.
Turner leads the Piedmont Regional Office of Preservation North Carolina, where she passionately advocates for the protection of historic structures and sites across 31 counties. Her work emphasizes not only the preservation of historic buildings and landscapes but also revitalizing downtown areas and neighborhoods, promoting cultural heritage tourism, and managing historic sites through thoughtful planning and policy.
Established in 2023, Preservation Johnston County is a nonprofit organization driven by a Board of Directors comprised of dedicated individuals from throughout the county. Their mission is clear: to preserve and protect Johnston County's cherished historic buildings, significant sites, and even neglected cemeteries.
These enlightening seminars are made possible through a generous grant from the NC Department of Natural and Cultural Resources and are completely free to the public. Attendees can enjoy light refreshments while engaging in these important discussions.
For further details, feel free to reach out to Board Chairman Todd Johnson at 919-720-8605.
Are you passionate about preserving history? Join the conversation and learn how you can contribute to safeguarding our shared heritage!
