A Different Kind of Stewardship: Historic Perservation

Lately, A&O has been providing assessments and preservation services to local historic sites including Historic Oakview and Kenly Tobacco Farm. In the past, we have discussed the importance of structural condition assessments and how they can be an important step to repairing historic buildings. However, historic buildings often have unique needs that are not part of a normal assessment.

What makes a Historic Assessment?

A building a Historic oak view

A historic assessment helps to identify, describe, and evaluate the condition of a historic structure. The overall goal is to document the existing condition so that the owner can plan long term maintenance and preservation. The team assesses the current condition of the structure and uses historical records to understand its past. This includes what materials were used in the original construction of the structure as well as, in the cases of historic buildings, the purpose it was built for. The objective is to maintain the integrity of the structure, preserving it rather than improving or renovating it for modern standards.

Difficulties

oak view’s water tower

There are several unique challenges that can present themselves when performing a historic assessment. One is that sometimes there is no existing documentation on the materials or methods used in the construction of an older building. For instance, during our work to repair Historic Oak View’s water tower, the team discovered that the tower had not actually been fastened down. It had just been set on the deck and might have tipped or fallen at any time. We had to make plans to secure it properly. Another challenge the A&O team faces is that often, they must deal with lead paint and asbestos. These hazardous materials can lead to unexpected setbacks and delays while they’re removed. In reality, preserving historic structures often comes with surprises that would never be found in a modern structure.

Stewards of History

kenly tobacco farm

These challenges, however, also offer unique opportunities. When we think of stewardship, we tend to think of engineering that works to mitigate the impact of structures and waste on the environment. However, it also can mean working to preserve and tend to our own historic legacies. We are also stewards through our ability to pass down significant buildings, bridges, or other structures to future generations. From the first black owned and operated church in North Carolina to the bridge that featured in a famous film, these structures are physical reminders of who we are. Through focusing on protecting this history, we also help to act as stewards by making sure that it can continue to be viewed and experienced as they were originally built.

Historic preservation presents unique trials and difficulties. It is a complex process with very specific goals and the potential to run into expected challenges. However, it offers the opportunity to maintain and protect our nation’s history for future generations to enjoy and learn from. If you want to learn more about our previous work in historic preservation, please see our project pages on Handy House, Haywood Hall and the Historic Oak View Water Tower.