Visitors at the newly opened Welcome Center in Bluffton's historic Carriage House.
Bluffton is set to unveil its new Welcome Center at the historic Squire Pope Carriage House on February 3rd. The center, spanning 540 square feet, will offer visitors and locals engaging displays about Bluffton’s history and culture. This project represents a $2.5 million investment in preserving Bluffton’s heritage, as the Squire Pope Carriage House is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. The celebration will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony, local performances, and light refreshments, welcoming everyone to discover the charm of this lovely community.
Exciting news in Bluffton! Mark your calendars for February 3rd, because this charming town is opening its brand-new Welcome Center located in the historic Squire Pope Carriage House. The big event kicks off at 4 p.m. with a ribbon-cutting celebration, and everyone is invited to join in on the festivities. This is a wonderful opportunity to explore this beautiful community and learn about its rich history!
The Welcome Center spans a cozy 540 square feet, designed as a starting point for visitors and residents alike to get to know Bluffton. It won’t be your traditional museum but rather a place filled with engaging features that welcome everyone. Expect to see videos, exhibits, maps, and displays detailing what makes Bluffton special—the town’s captivating history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural resources are just the beginning!
The Squire Pope Carriage House, built around 1850, is not just any building; it’s one of Bluffton’s cherished antebellum structures. Remarkably, it survived the infamous “Burning of Bluffton” by the Union Army in 1863, which adds a profound layer to its historical importance. This treasure has been recognized as a contributing structure in the Bluffton Historic District and has made it onto the National Register of Historic Places since 1996. What a delightful point of pride for Bluffton!
A significant investment of $2.5 million has gone into the stabilization and rehabilitation of this house, ensuring both its structural integrity and its historical charm are preserved for generations to come. The Town of Bluffton and Beaufort County partnered to acquire this property in 2017 for $1.5 million through the Rural and Critical Lands Program. What a testament to the community’s commitment to safeguarding its heritage!
The Welcome Center is nestled within the lovely Wright Family Park, which opened its doors in December 2020. This park is special as it provides public access to the May River, one of Bluffton’s main natural attractions. Alongside it, you’ll find the nearby Oyster Factory Park. This park is one of only two locations where residents can dip their toes in the river, making it a popular spot for relaxation and exploration.
The park doesn’t just offer stunning vistas but also an array of amenities. You will enjoy open lawns, shaded seating areas, a boardwalk, and a dock. Historical landscaping, featuring lovely Camellia bushes and a cherished 50-year-old Hickory Tree, pays homage to the legacy of the property.
The Welcome Center opening is the final phase of the Wright Family Park project, intertwining Bluffton’s gorgeous natural scenery with a commitment to historical preservation. Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, attendees will be entertained by local gospel singers and can delight in some light refreshments. Sounds like a wonderful way to celebrate the community!
It’s worth noting that the renovation of the Squire Pope Carriage House was undertaken by Huss, Inc. under a contract worth $1.737 million. The Bluffton Town Council unanimously approved the construction contract in October 2022, showcasing the community’s enthusiasm for preserving its cultural landmarks. The preservation plan was crafted by Meadors, Inc., a well-known Charleston-based firm, focusing on keeping the building’s structure intact while highlighting its rich history and evolution.
Bluffton thrives on its heritage and natural beauty, and the opening of the new Welcome Center is sure to be yet another feather in its cap. So, don’t miss out on this chance to be a part of history in the making!
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