Beaufort Historic Site & the BHA

Visitor Information Center and Olde Beaufort Shoppe
in Beaufort, North Carolina

In 1960 a few local citizens formed the Beaufort Historical Association, not only to help celebrate the town's 250th birthday, but also to initiate plans and guidelines to preserve the aging, but historically important structures in North Carolina's third oldest town. After property was purchased, houses and historic buildings were acquired and moved to the site. Below are a few of the buildings on the site.

In 1964, the first house was purchased - the JOHN C. MANSON circa 1825. Originally from Norfolk, Virginia, Manson was stationed in Beaufort during the War of 1812. Captain Manson became a prominent merchant and operated a store at the corner of Front and Turner.

The LEFFER’S COTTAGE circa 1778 - Samuel Leffers came to Beaufort in 1764, at age 28, recruited to teach at the Beaufort school. He spent 44 Years in Beaufort as schoolmaster, surveyor, clerk of court, merchant and planter.

In 1977, though it wasn't moved far, the massive 500-ton OLD JAIL, built in 1829 for $2,800, was a challenge to maneuver to the Historic Site.The jailer and his family coexisted with the prisoners. It remained in use until 1954.

Volunteers in period dress provide tours for three of the buildings on the site. The narrated Red Bus and Old Burial Ground tours are also very popular.
Upcoming Events
Beaufort Historic Site-Website
Site and Tour Information (252)-728-5225
Email Beaufort Historic Site
Beaufort-The Town and Why It's Unique
Old Homes Tour - June 27-28, 2008