May is Historic Preservation Month, and the City of Biloxi, one of the oldest communities in the country, has several events planned to commemorate the occasion and raise awareness of the importance of preservation.
The lineup of events includes a sunset cruise on a Biloxi schooner to view landmarks along the waterfront and discuss the importance of preservation, a children’s tour of historic homes and hands-on project, lectures about preservation from national authorities, and a old-fashioned picnic on the grounds of Tullis-Toledano Manor.
“It’s important that we continue to keep the spotlight shining on historic preservation,” said Lolly Barnes, the city’s Historical Administrator. “And with this project we are trying to cast a wide net, with activities for all ages and interests.”
The project gets underway with the schooner trip on Thursday, May 2 and wraps up with the picnic on Sunday, May 19.
Those wishing to attend any of the events are encouraged to make reservations by calling 228-435-6308. Space will be limited for some activities.
Here’s the complete schedule:
Thursday, May 2, 6 p.m. – Sunset sail aboard a Biloxi schooner. Biloxi’s Chief Administrative Officer, Jim Borsig, a former board member for Main Street Mississippi, leads a discussion about the importance of “preserving the sense of place,” and Dr. Deanne Nuwer points out architectural landmarks along Biloxi’s beachfront.
Saturday, May 4 – Children’s Tour of Historic Homes. Children ages 6-12 will learn basic architecture term and styles during a trolley tour of several historic buildings. The tour will conclude will refreshments and a luncheon project highlighting the Biloxi library. Tours will be at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Thursday, May 16, 6 p.m. – “A Cultural Approach to Community Development.” Preservation authority Kay Williams will explore the use of historic buildings and importance of preserving community relationships and traditions during a workshop at Biloxi City Hall. Williams is director of Tyron Palace Historic Sites & Gardens in New Bern and director of the North Carolina Division of State Historic Sites.
Saturday, May 18, 10 a.m. – A Local Preservationist’s Introduction to Historical Archeology. W. Stephen and Kim McBride, historical archeologists from Kentucky, will provide a regional overview of historical archeology and Jack Elliott with the Mississippi Department of Archives and History will discuss historical archeology projects in Mississippi. Speakers also will discuss the benefits and pitfalls of historical archeology as a tool for exploring the past. After the City Hall lecture, a field trip to local archeological sites will be conducted. Lunch will be provided.
Sunday, May 19, 2 to 5 p.m. — Preservation Picnic. Old-fashioned fun and games will be part of this picnic at Tullis-Toledano Manor to celebrate the heritage of Biloxi. Participants can either pack a picnic lunch or purchase a basket from the Friends of Tullis-Toledano Manor as a fund-raising event for restoration of the Crawford House.
Thursday, May 23, 6 p.m. – Sunset sail aboard a Biloxi schooner. Biloxi’s Chief Administrative Officer, Jim Borsig, a former board member for Main Street Mississippi, leads a discussion about the importance of “preserving the sense of place,” and Dr. Deanne Nuwer points out architectural landmarks along Biloxi’s beachfront.
The project is sponsored by the city’s Cultural Affairs Division, with support from the Mississippi Department of Archives and History, the Mississippi Humanities Council, the Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum and Beau Rivage Resort & Casino.
