Beaufort Gears Up for the 50th Anniversary of the Historic Fall Festival of Houses and Gardens
Beaufort—The beautiful coastal town of Beaufort is brimming with excitement as it prepares to celebrate a significant milestone—the 50th anniversary of the Historic Beaufort Foundation’s Fall Festival of Houses and Gardens. Set to take place over the weekend of October 19 and 20, 2024, this popular event invites locals and visitors alike to step back in time and explore the exquisite architecture and rich history of Beaufort’s renowned homes.
A Legacy of Preservation
The Historic Beaufort Foundation has deep roots in the community, originally collaborating with local churches to raise funds through spring home tours. But it was in 1974 that the foundation launched its first fall tour, with the aim of showcasing the stunning homes of Beaufort, each with its unique story and exquisite craftsmanship.
Cynthia Jenkins, the executive director, shared insights about the tour’s origins. “Almost every historic house tour in South Carolina started with the Episcopal church in the community. These tours usually took place in the spring when the azaleas were in bloom,” she explained.
Highlights of This Year’s Tour
This year’s tour will feature a variety of historic homes, including the majestic John A. Cuthbert House, which is sure to captivate attendees. Additionally, the John Mark Verdier House will be a highlight, reminding visitors of its storied past that dates back to the early 1800s. The house has undergone extensive restoration after being saved from demolition several decades ago, becoming a centerpiece for the foundation’s efforts.
On October 20, the foundation will also host a brunch and tour featuring the Tombee Plantation on St. Helena Island, a stunning example of Beaufort’s architectural elegance built in the late 18th century.
Celebrating History and Community
Jenkins emphasized the importance of showcasing both grand historic homes and smaller, equally significant structures. “You can appreciate the workmanship and the materials of a building better. You can’t replicate that today,” she said, pointing out that the blend of different styles enriches the tour experience.
Lise Sundrla, the assistant director of the foundation, noted how important it is to provide context around the homes during the tour. Visitors can learn about family histories and the lifestyles of those who lived in these historic structures, making it a truly engaging experience.
Supporting Local Preservation
One of the foundation’s main goals is to preserve the architectural history of Beaufort while educating the public about its cultural significance. “We are the only ones gathering the information about preservation and making educational opportunities for the community and wider visitors,” Sundrla stated, highlighting the organization’s commitment to keeping history alive.
With homes like the Elizabeth Barnwell Gough House and the James Rhett House also on the tour roster, attendees will find a varied representation of architectural styles and stories. “It gives visitors a chance to really immerse themselves in our heritage,” Sundrla added.
Bracing for Fall Weather
As residents prepare for the festival, they can expect typical September weather in Beaufort—sun mixed with clouds and a few stray showers or thunderstorms possible. Temperatures are predicted to reach a warm 86°F during the day, cooling down to around 74°F at night, making it ideal for strolling through gardens and historic homes. Light winds from the south at 5 to 10 mph will ensure comfortable weather for attendees.
Join the Celebration!
Mark your calendars for this unforgettable occasion and support the Historic Beaufort Foundation as it celebrates half a century of connecting people with the stories of Beaufort’s past. With so much to see and learn, it’s an event you won’t want to miss!
For more information about the Fall Festival of Houses and Gardens, check out the Historic Beaufort Foundation’s website. With so many exciting events and beautiful homes to explore, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy this October!
