The historic Robert Smalls House opens its doors to the public.
The National Trust for Historic Preservation has announced that the Robert Smalls House in Beaufort will open to the public following a significant settlement in a lawsuit with its former owners. This mission aims to enhance public access to the historic site, allowing visitors to explore its rich history connected to Robert Smalls, a notable figure in American history. Local stakeholders and descendants will be engaged in preservation efforts to ensure the house remains a cherished community landmark.
Good news for history buffs and local residents of Beaufort! The beloved Robert Smalls House is set to open its doors to the public following an important settlement that followed a lawsuit involving the property’s previous owners. This charming historic home, which dates back to 1840, has been at the heart of a community struggle, and now, our hopes for public access are finally in sight.
In November 2023, the National Trust for Historic Preservation made headlines by purchasing the Robert Smalls House. This beloved structure has been a topic of conversation among locals, especially after the Historic Beaufort Foundation filed a lawsuit against its former owners, Billy and Paul Keyserling, back in May 2022. The lawsuit focused on the Keyserlings’ alleged failure to uphold the conservation and preservation easement that was established in 2002, which protects the house’s exterior and its grounds while requiring that it be open to the public at least four times a year.
The heart of the matter involved how much public access to the house should be allowed. Under the Keyserlings’ ownership, limited tours were conducted on the property, which usually included small groups accessing the yard, front porch, and a couple of rooms. However, the Historic Beaufort Foundation argued that public access should primarily be reserved for those with educational ties or historical interests. This disagreement highlighted the intense passion surrounding the preservation of history in our community.
With the National Trust now in charge, the vision for the property is clearer. They plan to manage it directly with the ultimate goal of transferring it to the National Park Service. The settlement allows for limited public tours of the house, making sure that it remains a residence but still opens its doors to visitors interested in learning about its rich history. It certainly sounds like a win-win for both locals and history enthusiasts alike!
Now, let’s take a moment to reflect on the man behind the house – Robert Smalls. Born into slavery, Smalls became a monumental figure in American history during the Civil War when he commandeered a Confederate ship and secured freedom for himself and others. After the war, he didn’t stop there! Smalls was elected as a Congressman, serving for five terms and tirelessly advocating for the political and educational rights of African Americans. His legacy makes the Robert Smalls House not just an old building, but a symbol of courage, change, and progress.
The future of the Robert Smalls House looks promising. There are plans in the works to engage directly with Smalls’ descendants and involve local stakeholders in preservation initiatives for the house. This collaborative effort aims to ensure that the property remains a vibrant part of the community while honoring the historical significance that it represents.
Though a separate lawsuit continues to be pursued by the Friends of the Historic Point Neighborhood and several local residents against the Keyserlings and the City of Beaufort regarding the same property, the recent settlement marks a significant step for public access to the Robert Smalls House. It’s time for the local community and visitors alike to embrace the history and spirit of this incredible landmark.
Stay tuned for updates as the plans unfold, and get ready to step inside history! The doors of the Robert Smalls House are set to welcome you in a way that both respects the past and promises an engaging future.
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