Honey's Old House: A Historical Preservation Case Study

Introduction

Honey's Old House, located in the historic district of Savannah, Georgia, is a significant example of early American architecture. Built in the 1820s, the house is a testament to the city's rich past and has been the subject of numerous preservation efforts. This case study will delve into the history, preservation challenges, and strategies employed to protect this architectural gem.

Historical Background

Honey's Old House was constructed in the early 19th century by a wealthy merchant named Thomas Honey. The house is a typical example of the Federal style of architecture, which was popular in the United States from 1800 to 1825. The house features a symmetrical facade, a central doorway, and a hipped roof.

Over the years, the house has had several owners and has undergone various renovations. In the 1850s, the house was remodeled in the Greek Revival style, and in the early 20th century, it was converted into a boarding house. In 1954, the house was purchased by the Historic Savannah Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the city's historic architecture.

Preservation Challenges

Honey's Old House has faced several preservation challenges over the years. The house has been damaged by hurricanes, termites, and other natural disasters. Additionally, the house has been threatened by demolition and redevelopment.

In 1967, the house was designated as a National Historic Landmark, which provided it with some protection from demolition. However, the house still faces threats from neglect and decay. The Historic Savannah Foundation has undertaken several projects to preserve the house, including roof repairs, structural stabilization, and exterior restoration.

Preservation Strategies

The preservation of Honey's Old House has been guided by several strategies. These strategies include:

• Adaptive reuse: The house has been adapted for use as a museum and event space. This allows the house to generate revenue and support its ongoing preservation.
• Historic tax credits: The house is eligible for federal and state historic tax credits, which provide financial incentives for rehabilitation and preservation.
• Community engagement: The Historic Savannah Foundation has engaged the local community in the preservation of the house. This has helped to raise awareness of the house's importance and generate support for its preservation.

Conclusion

Honey's Old House is a significant example of early American architecture that has been successfully preserved. The house has faced numerous preservation challenges over the years, but it has been protected thanks to the efforts of the Historic Savannah Foundation and the support of the local community. The house is now a museum and event space that is enjoyed by visitors from around the world.

Additional Tables

Table 1: Timeline of Honey's Old House

Table 2: Preservation Challenges Faced by Honey's Old House

Table 3: Preservation Strategies Employed to Protect Honey's Old House