Since its founding in 1972, the New Bern Preservation Foundation (NBPF) has been a cornerstone in preserving the architectural heritage of New Bern, North Carolina. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, NBPF is dedicated to safeguarding the city’s rich tapestry of historic structures, ensuring that New Bern’s unique character endures for future generations.
The Story Behind the New Bern Preservation Foundation’s Mission
From the 1950s to the early 1970s, New Bern’s historic downtown was falling apart, homes sat empty. Middle Street façades were covered with corrugated metal. Streets that once buzzed with life started to fade.
As time and the younger generation passed them by, the old central city and its early suburbs became the preserve of older families. But as senior New Bernians died off, their historic and often dilapidated houses were demolished or turned into apartments. For a while, it seemed like the past might disappear for good.
Many imposing and important structures were lost, particularly with the widening of Broad Street in the late 1950s as it was transformed from a tree-lined residential street of stately old homes to an unattractive thoroughfare that ran directly through the heart of the historic city. At the same time, the historic Trent River waterfront district was torn down through urban renewal.
In one egregious “remodeling” of the period, in 1951 an owner turned the handsome Federal and Greek Revival girlhood home of Sophia Moore Duffy on Middle Street into apartments, while destroying its hallmark Greek Revival porches and stripped out most of its original interior woodwork.
During those same years, younger and more affluent people chose to build in post-war suburbs, especially the popular and upscale Trent Woods development. Fortunately, the spiritual descendants of Mrs. Duffy rallied to halt the destruction of the remainder of New Bern’s historic architecture.
The success of Tryon Palace and the reactivation of the New Bern Historical Society were not enough to guarantee the preservation of the historic community of New Bern itself. Unfortunately, the architectural integrity of New Bern declined even as the palace restoration and reconstruction progressed.
A Committee Was Formed
In 1972, the New Bern Historical Society formed a committee to stop the demolition of historic structures. In 1973 that committee, under the presidency of Dr. Francis King, called Historic New Bern Foundation, Inc. (HNBF) became the separately chartered New Bern Preservation Foundation (NBPF), which operated a revolving fund for endangered properties. Pop Beasley, with his expertise in real estate, also headed the organization in its formative years.
Beginning with the purchase of the Elijah Clark House in 1973, the Foundation eventually saved over 70 historic structures and in the process stabilized key residential areas, including those near Tryon Palace and the old New Bern Academy.
With a growing membership and a professional executive director since 1981, the Foundation provided technical assistance to property owners. It has also sponsored architectural inventories and National Register nominations including those for Riverside, DeGraffenried Park, and Ghent neighborhoods.
Most important for the future, with the cooperation of the local schools and the New Bern Historical Society, the New Bern Preservation Foundation provided lesson plans and materials that are used by fourth and eighth grade teachers to explain history through historic architecture.
Charles and Carolyn Peterson served as the Foundation’s co-coordinators. The Petersons followed coordinator Karen Rochon and Executive Directors Angela Barnett (1981-1985) and Barbara Howlett (1986-2005).
Why the New Bern Preservation Foundation Still Matters Today
Notable Preservation Projects
Union Station Depot
One of NBPF’s significant achievements includes the preservation of the Union Station Depot, a vital piece of New Bern’s transportation history.
King Solomon Lodge #1
In a remarkable effort, NBPF raised half a million dollars to restore King Solomon Lodge #1, the oldest African American Masonic lodge in North Carolina. This project not only preserved a significant building but also honored the cultural heritage of the African American community in New Bern.
Tisdale House
The Foundation also played a crucial role in saving the Tisdale House, ensuring this historic residence remains a part of New Bern’s architectural landscape.
Our office is located at 510B Pollock Street, New Bern, NC 28562. We welcome visitors Tuesday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to noon, with appointments encouraged.
By becoming a member of the New Bern Preservation Foundation or making a donation, you’ll support our continuing preservation efforts.