Over thirty years ago, a preservationist began the process of saving, restoring and documenting a small Greek Revival farm house in Chester County, S.C. For a decade or more, the owner lived for the day her house would have central heat, new wiring, insulation, and be completely restored. Every waking hour her energy and money went into the preservation of this old home. The owner, a devoted friend of three decades, also wanted to see the house listed on the National Register of Historic Places. As time passed, it was one of those items in her must to do bucket list and as of this week, Cedarleaf was recognized for its architectural and historic merit. (Be sure to click on the highlighted names to view the site on R&R).
Accomplishing this goal entailed far more than simply hiring a researcher and writer – no, she was involved in every step! Having devoted herself to this single goal, she reviewed beams, nails, doors, hinges, tool marks, documents, pictures and letters associated with the
extensive number of families having lived in the home. One gentleman, preparing to move into a retirement village, gave the owner his family’s collection of historic materials and images associated with their lives at Cedarleaf. Other former occupants were invited to visit often, take current pictures and of course tell lots of interesting stories. They were always greeted with kind regards and warm hugs!
She nurtured the preservation of this handsome dwelling until there was enough original materials and historic data to move forward with a full-blown nomination. For anyone ever having gone through the process, of completing the reams of paperwork, hours of detailed writing, and extensive architectural descriptions, it is daunting. On the appointed day, the owner personally presented the application to the S.C. Board of Review at the State Archives. As expected, she was given accolades of the highest order, for her outstanding scholarship, research, and excellent presentation to the board. Also enjoy clicking on three additional examples of S.C. Greek Revival worth exploring:
- Hart House in York, S.C.
- Dantzler Plantation in Orangeburg Co., S.C.
- Dotty House in Winnsboro, S.C.
So, when I received a call from the owner, to proclaim Cedarleaf had passed the scrutiny of the U.S. Dept. of Interior and officially been placed on the National Register, we were all elated. Though Roots and Recall has been given much undue credit, it is not our doing but that of one individual who moved mountains; adoring, safeguarding and preserving a simply S.C. farm house who is the leading lady of this preservation story. Congratulations!
From the Porch – Blog @ RootsandRecall.com – 10.27.16