SINCE 1947
Many thoughtful citizens have worked diligently to preserve the historic resources of Beaufort and the South Carolina Lowcountry. Thanks to the hard work of supportive members, dedicated preservationists and government leaders, Beaufort is a nationally recognized preservation success story.
“The decades and generations of the Historic Beaufort Foundations’ preservation work has made old Beaufort one of the, if not the, most award winning and desired residential and visitor attractions in North America.”
– Lawrence S. Rowland
PHD, Distinguished Professor Emeritus, University of South Carolina, Beaufort
Advocacy
Beaufortonians have always known this is a special place and that Beaufort has a unique character and sense of place that defines livability. The Beaufort we know today would be a very different place without HBF and the strong support of our membership.
Authenticity
Historic preservation ensures that lessons from Beaufort’s historic past continue to inspire and inform as we meet the challenges of our time. HBF understands Beaufort should thrive and grow as it evolves while following the path that safeguards our unique sense of place.
Livability
We must balance the needs of residents with the pressures that test our resiliency. Join with us in balancing 21st century challenges in an 18th century setting. Zoning, land use, and design are essential and integral to Beaufort’s livability for residents. The framework of our future is found in the network of Beaufort’s past.
BEAUFORT, SOUTH CAROLINA
IF THESE STREETS COULD TALK
Located on Port Royal Island, and in the heart of the Sea Islands and South Carolina Lowcountry, Beaufort’s 300 plus year history, and architectural and natural environment, have long captured the interest and imagination of educators, writers, travelers, and residents.
CIRCA 1804
John Mark Verdier House
801 BAY STREET
We invite you to visit the John Mark Verdier House c. 1804 (801 Bay Street). This house is the only historic structure in Beaufort that is regularly open to the public.
Built by John Mark Verdier (1759-1827), a successful merchant and planter, the prominent Federal-style mansion was a highly visible statement reflecting Verdier’s rising success. Located in the commercial district in downtown Beaufort the house is rich in both architectural character and history.
In 1863, during the Union occupation of Beaufort (1861 – 1865), the house served for a time as army headquarters and the adjutant general’s office.
HOURS OF OPERATION
Monday-Saturday:
Docent-guided tours every
hour
on the 1/2 hour from
10:30 AM until 3:30 PM.
Phone: 843-379-6335
Closed: Sundays and Holidays.
Stay Connected
Historic Beaufort Foundation
Fall Festival of Houses & Gardens
Historic Beaufort Foundation’s annual Fall Festival of Houses & Gardens is set for October 21-22. One of the Lowcountry’s most-anticipated annual events, this year’s Saturday tour focuses on the Point neighborhood in the heart of Beaufort’s National Historic Landmark district. Historic homes, beautiful gardens, tree lined streets and an historic Church highlight this special tour. Sunday’s tour and southern brunch provides a unique glimpse of town and country living in Beaufort during the late 19th and early 20th century. The Fall Festival of Houses & Gardens and the Lafayette Soiree are the primary annual fundraisers for the foundation. Proceeds from the tours, assist HBF to ensure that Beaufort’s historic and architectural legacy remains strong.
News
Historic Beaufort Foundation earns major honor for exterior renovation of the John Mark Verdier House
Help support our continuing mission to preserve and protect Beaufort's historic and architectural Legacy.
Historic Beaufort Foundation’s extensive 2021 exterior renovation of the John Mark Verdier House on Beaufort’s Bay Street earned Preservation South Carolina’s prestigious Stewardship Award July 13.
Help support our continuing mission to preserve and protect Beaufort's historic and architectural Legacy.
Historic Beaufort Foundation’s extensive 2021 exterior renovation of the John Mark Verdier House on Beaufort’s Bay Street earned Preservation South Carolina’s prestigious Stewardship Award July 13.
Shop
Visit our online shop to purchase books and posters through a secure online checkout. All purchases support HBF’s mission to preserve, protect and present sites and artifacts of historic, cultural, and architectural significance throughout Beaufort County, South Carolina.
Join Us in Thanking Sponsors and Partners
