Charleston, October 17, 2025
News Summary
Charleston is set to revise its architectural inventory for the first time in nearly 40 years, focusing on recognizing and preserving sites of historical significance, particularly African American heritage sites. A public meeting will discuss the findings from the African American Historic Resource Survey, offering community members insight into the documentation process. The survey aims to include structures over 50 years old and promote community engagement in preservation efforts.
Charleston is set to update its architectural inventory for the first time in nearly 40 years, marking a significant step towards recognizing and preserving the city’s historical and cultural heritage. The project involves a consulting firm specializing in cultural resources, aimed at identifying and documenting historically or architecturally significant properties that may have been overlooked in the past. The initial focus will particularly address African American heritage sites within downtown Charleston.
A public meeting scheduled for 6:30 p.m. at the Charleston County Public Library on Calhoun Street will present findings from the African American Historic Resource Survey. During this meeting, attendees will gain insights into the survey process and methodology used in the documentation effort. Participants will have the opportunity to evaluate structures employing a four-tier classification system, which includes categories such as exceptional, excellent, significant, or contributory.
Community engagement is highlighted as essential in pinpointing sites that require preservation. The survey team has dedicated itself to documenting thousands of properties, especially in historically Black neighborhoods. Structures that are 50 years or older—spanning homes, corner stores, churches, and cemeteries—are being included in this comprehensive survey.
The eventual report generated from the survey will provide recommendations on which structures should be preserved and considered for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. Furthermore, the data collected will assist the Board of Architectural Review in managing demolition requests and modifications to historic buildings.
Among the properties being surveyed are approximately 106 Freedman’s cottages located on Charleston’s Upper Peninsula. The previous survey conducted over 20 years ago did not account for many of these cottages, as they were viewed as vacant and dilapidated at that time. However, efforts in historic preservation have led to the transformation of some Freedman’s cottages into commercial spaces, including restaurants and barbershops.
New South Associates, the consulting firm engaged for this project, is committed to extending the focus of historic preservation beyond affluent areas, ensuring that diverse narratives are included in Charleston’s architectural history. To facilitate community involvement, a Facebook page titled “Locating Charleston’s Black History” has been established for residents to share their own historical memories and contributions.
A follow-up public meeting is planned for February, during which the complete report will be presented to the community, ensuring that residents remain informed and involved in the preservation of their heritage.
Key Features of Charleston’s Historic Resources Survey
- Focus on African American Heritage: The initial stage targets historically significant African American sites.
- Public Engagement: A meeting will educate attendees on the survey methodology.
- Community Input: Residents can contribute to identifying preservation sites.
- Documentation Area: Structures include homes, churches, and commercial properties over 50 years old.
- Freedman’s Cottages: Approximately 106 cottages are included in the survey, aiming to preserve their heritage.
- Next Steps: The follow-up public meeting will outline the final report findings in February.
FAQ
What is the purpose of Charleston’s Historic Resources Survey?
The survey aims to identify and document historically or architecturally significant properties that may not have been previously recognized, with an initial focus on African American heritage sites in downtown Charleston.
When is the public meeting scheduled?
The public meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. at the Charleston County Public Library on Calhoun Street.
What is the classification system used in the survey?
Participants in the survey can evaluate structures using a four-tier classification system: exceptional, excellent, significant, or contributory.
What structures are being included in the survey?
Structures 50 years or older are being included, such as homes, corner stores, churches, and cemeteries.
What will the survey ultimately recommend?
The eventual report will recommend which structures should be protected and considered for listing on the National Register of Historic Places.
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Additional Resources
- Live 5 News: Charleston Leaders Seek Input on Historic Architecture
- Wikipedia: Historic Preservation
- Post and Courier: Charleston Historic Places Survey
- Google Search: Charleston Architecture
- CHS Today: Understanding Charleston’s Board of Architectural Review
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Charleston, South Carolina
- Hotel Online: Method Co. Opens The Nickel Hotel
- Google News: Charleston History
- Sleeper Magazine: The Nickel Hotel Opens in Charleston
- Google Scholar: Charleston Architecture
- Galerie Magazine: Native Charleston
- Encyclopedia Britannica: African American History
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