Historic preservation allows us to reflect upon, understand and appreciate our history. It is a way for people to build connections to one another and learn about the past. However, historic preservation does more than protect physical things such as buildings, furnishings, and monuments, it can include anything such as: art, food, and cultural dance!
There are many organizations that work on different aspects of preservation; but preservation is a common thread of connectivity that binds individuals together and provides the skeleton that renders the “special feeling” referred to time and time again by residents and visitors upon spending time in New Bern.
There is often confusion about three different, but similarly named preservation organizations in New Bern. Each organization has a very specific area of preservation as its mission. The New Bern Preservation Foundation has been preserving and protecting the architectural heritage of New Bern for over 50 years and has helped save over 70 historic properties over the years. The New Bern Historical Society works diligently at preserving New Bern’s history (our story) through various public educational events and programs. The Historic Preservation Commission consists of nine members which are appointed by the New Bern Board of Alderman. The Commission’s primary responsibility is to prevent changes in a historic district that would be incongruous (not in keeping) with the special character of the district.
While each of these preservation organizations is of great importance, the real treasures of New Bern are the people! People coming together to make individual contributions to our hometown. Whether taking an active role in one or more preservation organizations, individually choosing to own and care for an historic property, buying and/or restoring antique furnishings from Eastern North Carolina, choosing to operate a business in downtown, or supporting the many activities of the community through participation, attendance and/or donations – you are a Preservationist!
As we begin 2025, we invite you to think about how you can personally contribute in a small way to ensure our town keeps its preservation efforts moving forward.
Interested in being involved in preservation? The New Bern Preservation Foundation (NBPF) invites you to join our organization. For more information on our organization and becoming a member, visit our website: https://newbernpf.org.
Looking for another way? At the end of this month, the NBPF will host its signature fundraiser – the 38th Annual NBPF Antiques Show & Sale. The show will be held January 24 – 26, at the Maola at Riverside Event Center, 1400 N. Craven Street. Maola was originally home to the Roper Lumber Company, North Carolina’s largest lumber mill from the late 1800s to the 1930s. Post-Great Depression, the site was transformed into facilities for repairing dairy trucks by Maola, preserving its industrial heritage. Today, the transformation continues, this historic vendue spans 20,000 square feet, featuring 24-foot ceilings, weathered brick walls and spaces with cedar-lined and greenery-adorned walls. Maola and the NBPF are perfect partners with preservation offering an optimal setting to enjoy the 38th Annual NBPF Antiques Show & Sale.
The show will be hosting 24 dealers from all over the eastern United States, offering oriental rugs, antique American furniture, English antiques and silver, vintage fabrics, and much more. Advance tickets may be purchased online at https://newbernpf.org/antique-show/ for $10. Tickets at the door will be $15.
There will be a First Look event on Thursday, January 23 from 5:30 – 8:00 p.m. This is a sneak preview of the show with a reception offering hors d’oeuvres and wine/beer along with early shopping. Advance tickets may be purchased online at https://newbernpf.org/antique-show/ for $40. Tickets at the door will be $45.
A fellow Preservationist, Robert Leath, will be leading a Preservation Speaker Session in conjunction with the Antique Show (but a separate admission price) on Saturday, January 25th at 10 a.m. at the Maola at Riverside Cedar Grove Sanctuary. Mr. Leath is the Executive Director of Edenton Historical Commission and the Elizabeth Vann Moore Foundation. Mr. Leath is guiding the transformation of Hayes Farm, one of North Carolina’s most remarkable historic landmarks, into a dynamic, publicly accessible historic site. He will speak about the history and current plans of Hayes Farm. There is limited seating – so get your tickets now! Advance tickets may be purchased online at https://newbernpf.org/antique-show/. Tickets at the door (if available) will be $15.
It is important to note that tickets for First Look and General Admission provide all-weekend access to the Antique Show; however, they do not provide access to the Preservation Speaker Session. The Preservation Speaker Session is a separately ticketed event.
Food trucks, a bakery and coffee will be available during the Antique Show…so make a day or a weekend of it!
However, you choose to actively participate in New Bern’s preservation efforts – join us in proudly proclaiming “I AM A PRESERVATIONIST”.