What’s with the four Hs?
If you live in or around New Bern, chances are you’ve heard of “the four Hs.” There’s the New Bern Historical Society, the New Bern Preservation Foundation, the Historic Preservation Commission, and the Historic Downtown Residents Association. (Technically, one of those doesn’t even start with an “H,” but it still gets lumped in!)
It’s easy to get them mixed up, but each one plays a different role in preserving New Bern’s rich architectural legacy.
This article focuses on our organization, the New Bern Preservation Foundation (NBPF), and its unique and vital role in protecting the historic homes and buildings of our town through protective covenants.
So, what are protective covenants?
Think of a protective covenant as a promise written into the property deed. It’s a legal agreement that travels with the property when it’s sold, ensuring that any future owner must also protect its historic features. These covenants might cover the entire structure or just specific architectural elements like original woodwork, windows, or even the type of roofing materials used.
Protective covenants and easements aren’t just a Downtown thing. We take care of the paperwork (and the filing fees), so you don’t have to.
In short: if a building has a protective covenant, it can’t be bulldozed or altered beyond recognition just because it has a new owner.
NBPF’s Covenant Collection
Over the past five decades, NBPF has played a pivotal role in the conservation of New Bern’s historic architecture. The New Bern Preservation Foundation currently holds protective covenants on more than 70 historic structures in the area. That’s more than just a badge of honor, it’s a long-term commitment to making sure these buildings remain part of New Bern’s historic fabric, no matter who owns them next.
Here are a few notable preservation projects:
- Union Station Depot: We stepped in to save this historic rail structure from demolition. NBPF preserved it; now it’s up to the City and NC Railroad to give it a new lease on life.
- King Solomon Lodge: Built in 1870, this is the oldest Black Masonic Lodge in North Carolina. NBPF raised over $500,000 to restore it, a monumental effort to preserve Black heritage in the region.
These are not just old buildings or homes. They are part of New Bern’s living history, and NBPF’s protective covenants ensure they’re here for generations to come.
How is NBPF different from the other “Hs”?
It’s understandable that folks get confused. Here’s a quick breakdown:
New Bern Preservation Foundation (NBPF)
Focus: Saving structures, holding legal covenants, fundraising for restoration projects.
Think: Hands-on protection and legal stewardship.
New Bern Historical Society (NBHS)
Focus: Education, events, and community outreach about New Bern’s heritage.
Think: Stories, tours, and making history come alive.
Historic Preservation Commission (HPC)
Focus: Local governing body with judicial authority that upholds architectural standards in New Bern’s historic districts and works to prevent neglect within these areas.
Think: City-level approvals and rule enforcement.
Historic Downtown Residents Association (HDRA)
Focus: Supporting residents of the historic downtown area.
Think: Neighborhood involvement and local advocacy.
They all care about New Bern’s past, but New Bern Preservation Foundation is the only group with long-term legal tools — like covenants — to protect historic structures on private property.
Why should you care about covenants?
Because once a historic building is gone, it’s gone for good.
Even well-meaning renovations can strip a home or building of its character if not done thoughtfully. Protective covenants make sure that changes stay true to the structure’s original charm, and help maintain the historical integrity of entire neighborhoods.
If you’re buying a historic home in New Bern (or just curious if one has a covenant), you view most of the covenants here. We can tell you what the covenant covers and how to honor it if you have questions.
If you would like to know more about putting a covenant on your home or building, reach out to us and one of our Acquisitions & Covenants Committee chairs will get in touch with you.
Final Thoughts
New Bern’s historic beauty didn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of ongoing effort, shared responsibility, and a few well-placed covenants that make all the difference.
Next time you walk past a 200-year-old home or building that looks as timeless as ever, remember: behind that beauty is a legal promise — and behind that promise is the work of the New Bern Preservation Foundation, founded in 1972.