New Bern Preservation Foundation
Protective Covenants • Historic Preservation • Stewardship
Safeguarding the unique architectural legacy of New Bern
Established in 1972, the New Bern Preservation Foundation works to protect and preserve historically significant homes and buildings in and around New Bern, North Carolina.
We raise funds for specific restoration projects, partner with organizations like Preservation NC, and advocate for the protection of endangered structures. A key part of our work includes offering and setting up protective covenants, which help ensure these historic properties and homes are preserved long-term, even through changes in ownership.
THE FOUR AITCHES
There is a lot of confusion in New Bern about the four aitches (Hs). There’s the Historical Society, New Bern Preservation Foundation (not even an aitch), the Historic Preservation Commission, and the Historic Downtown Residents Association. We all work together, but we are different groups with different aims.
The New Bern Preservation Foundation (NBPF) works to preserve and protect the architectural heritage of New Bern, North Carolina. We hold protective covenants on over 70 historic structures. We saved the Depot — it’s now up to the City and the NC Railroad to find a use for it. We raised half a million dollars to restore the oldest Black Masonic Lodge in North Carolina.
Think: Hands-on protection and legal stewardship.
The mission of the New Bern Historical Society (NBHS) is to celebrate and promote New Bern and its heritage through events and education.
Think: Stories, tours, and making history come alive.
The Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) has many responsibilities including consideration of certificates of appropriateness, negotiating with property owners who propose to demolish or relocate contributing properties within the historic district, and prevention of demolition by neglect. Call Matt at Development Services (252)639-7583 or email.
Think: City-level approvals and rule enforcement.
The Historic Downtown Residents Association (HDRA) is a volunteer neighborhood residents association, organized in 1997 and incorporated in 1999.
Think: Neighborhood involvement and local advocacy.
