Columbia Wins National Trustees’ Award for Organizational Excellence in Historic Preservation

Columbia Celebrates Historic Achievement with National Award

Columbia, SC – A bright morning welcomed residents today, with the sun peeking through fluffy clouds before turning overcast as the day unfolds. Meteorologists say we can expect a high of around 70°F with gentle, variable winds. As evening approaches, be prepared for some patchy fog, and temperatures will dip to a cozy 58°F. Sounds like a perfect evening for snuggling up with a good book or enjoying a warm cup of cocoa!

Honoring a Legacy of Preservation

But before we cozy up, let’s talk about some exciting news that has put Columbia on the national map! Historic Columbia has been awarded the coveted Trustees’ Award for Organizational Excellence by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. This award shines a spotlight on the organization’s remarkable journey from focusing solely on preservation to becoming a champion of inclusivity in storytelling for people and places often left unnoticed in our historical narrative.

Since its inception back in 1961, Historic Columbia has grown leaps and bounds. With a mission to uncover and share the layered history of Columbia and Richland County, it champions not just the preservation of buildings but also the rich tapestry of stories that come with them. Their efforts include innovative educational programs and strategic partnerships that echo the community’s heartbeat.

A Testament to Hard Work and Community Spirit

Speaking about this prestigious award, Executive Director Suzanne Brooks beamed with pride: “This award is a testament to our dedicated team, partners, and community members who have supported our mission and shared their stories with us. We are honored to be recognized by the National Trust for Historic Preservation and remain steadfast in our commitment to preserving the past to guide our future.”

The Trustees’ Award is not just a shiny trophy but a nod to the careful stewardship Historic Columbia provides for several historic treasures in the area. Notable sites include the Seibels House (c. 1796), the Hampton-Preston Mansion (c. 1818), and the Robert Mills House (c. 1823), among others. Over the last two decades, the team has poured their hearts into restoring these antebellum edifices while weaving in interactive exhibits addressing significant topics like *slavery*, *Reconstruction*, and *civil rights*.

What’s Next for Historic Columbia?

So, what does the future hold? Historic Columbia is buzzing with plans for more rehabilitation projects and fresh approaches to engage the community. Imagine visiting places with accurate gardens from the period, or even ‘ghost structures’ that mark buildings that no longer stand. These initiatives not only honor the past but invite residents and visitors alike to experience history first-hand.

The award ceremony took place on Monday morning during the annual PastForward National Preservation Conference in New Orleans. John Sherrer, Historic Columbia’s Director of Preservation, accepted the award amidst applause, representing the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in this noble cause.

Community Involvement is Key

This recognition serves as a powerful reminder of the role each individual can play in preserving history. As Brooks points out, it’s about community collaboration. So, next time you walk by a historic site or attend a local event, know that your participation boosts the mission of organizations like Historic Columbia, connecting threads from the past to the present.

As the fog rolls in tonight, let’s celebrate our city’s history, reflect on its journey, and look forward to the future one patch of preserved history at a time. Cheers to Columbia and its incredible strides in keeping the past alive!