Historic Savannah Foundation, a leading preservation organization committed to preserving and protecting Savannah’s heritage, hosted 25 students in its “Hands on History” day camp, a program geared towards giving middle and high school students an overview of the field of historic preservation. The camp, which was held the week of May 25-29, featured workshops, tours, and sessions at various historic sites throughout the city.

“It’s critical to engage younger generations in understanding the impacts of historic preservation sooner than later because they are the future caretakers of our heritage,” said Daniel Carey, president and CEO of Historic Savannah Foundation. “But that doesn’t mean we can’t have fun.  Last week was an educational and memorable experience for all who participated.”

The campers toured sites from Savannah’s Landmark District to Fort Pulaski National Monument and the Tybee Island Light Station all while learning about preservation, stewardship and re-purposing. The students learned about basic architectural styles and features as well as urban planning concepts, both traditional and new. In addition, they gained knowledge about some of Savannah’s early historical figures and their contributions to our community. 

HSF’s Hands on History Camp is an interactive day-camp offered each summer, geared towards giving students an overview of the field of historic preservation and rehabilitation through a series of lectures and tours while providing hands-on experience through various practical workshops. 

This program was sponsored in part by the City of Savannah’s Department of Cultural Affairs’ Weave-A-Dream Initiative; Rives E. Worrell Co., a JE Dunn Construction Company; and through the Hands on History Program by Gulfstream Aerospace Corp.