Beaufort Historic District, Historic district in Beaufort, South Carolina, US.
Beaufort Historic District is a 304-acre area containing Federal, Neoclassical, Greek Revival, and Victorian architecture. Streets are lined with oak trees and historic homes that define the neighborhood's character.
Founded in 1711, the district survived the Civil War intact because Union forces used the buildings as hospitals and military offices instead of destroying them. This unexpected preservation allowed a unique collection of historical structures to remain.
The district features structures built with tabby, an early concrete made from oyster shells, sand, lime, and ash, reflecting colonial construction methods. This building technique remains visible in many homes throughout the area today.
Walking is the best way to explore the district, as streets are designed for pedestrians and architectural details become visible on foot. The Historic District Review Board oversees all construction projects, so visitors see a consistently well-maintained neighborhood.
The Robert Smalls House on Prince Street was the birthplace of an enslaved person who later became the first African American member of Congress. This site connects the district to a remarkable chapter of American freedom and achievement.
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