Preservation Society of Charleston

The Preservation Society of Charleston is dedicated to recognizing, protecting and advocating for the Lowcountry’s historic places.

We are committed to advocacy efforts that protect and preserve our architectural and cultural heritage, educational initiatives that raise awareness of our unique and historic built environment, and awards and recognition programs designed to encourage public participation and appreciation of historic preservation.

Founded in 1920 by Susan Pringle Frost, the Preservation Society of Charleston is the oldest community-based historic preservation organization in America. Formed out of concern for the 1802 Joseph Manigault House, the small group of individuals was instrumental in its restoration and the formation of America's first zoning ordinance to protect historic resources. The 1931 ordinance established the first Board of Architectural Review and designated a 138-acre "Old and Historic District." The district has since been expanded to include more than 4,800 historic structures.