Sixty years ago, Wilmington’s now-celebrated historic downtown was facing an existential crisis. Mid-century urban renewal projects were systematically dismantling the region’s architectural fabric, leaving behind badly deteriorated buildings and neglected neighborhoods. On August 2, 1966, twelve determined Wilmington residents stepped forward to reverse the tide, signing the articles of incorporation that established the Historic Wilmington Foundation (HWF)—one of North Carolina’s earliest volunteer preservation organizations.
Six decades later, HWF is celebrating its 60th Anniversary year by honoring that original, evergreen resolve and looking forward to a vibrant future. What began as a grassroots rescue mission by a dozen visionaries has grown into a powerhouse organization backed by hundreds of members, dedicated volunteers, a professional staff, and an active Board of Directors.
Celebrate 60 Years of Preservation with the Historic Wilmington Foundation!
Sixty years of preservation takes a village. It takes the grit and resilience of leaders who guide our mission, the dedication of homeowners and contractors who breathe life into old walls, and the unwavering support of a community that protects its irreplaceable history.
Our 60th Anniversary Gala is a celebration of everyone who has shaped our story—and everyone who will help write the next chapter. Together, let’s toast to six decades of dedication and look forward to the next sixty years. By preserving and honoring the diverse history of Wilmington’s past, we lay the foundation to build a more meaningful, inclusive, and vibrant future for us all.
Friday, November 13th | 6:00 PM
City Club of Wilmington
23 S 2nd Street, Wilmington, NC
Legacy Architectural Salvage is proud to welcome local furniture repair and restoration specialist Curtis Martin for a beginner-friendly hands-on furniture repair and restoration workshop on Saturday, November 14th!
Please note: This is a hands-on experience. Please wear comfortable work clothes and closed-toe shoes that you don’t mind getting a little dusty!
Saturday, November 14th | 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Legacy Architectural Salvage
Behind Ace Hardware
1831 – B Dawson Street, Wilmington, NC
We are thrilled to announce that Mark Gansor, Legacy’s Artist in Residence, will present his newest work with an Opening Reception on Saturday, November 28 from 10am- 2pm.
Please join us as we oooh and aaah over Mark’s latest creations!
Saturday, November 28th | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Legacy Architectural Salvage
Behind Ace Hardware
1831 – B Dawson Street, Wilmington, NC
Have a broken appliance, jewelry piece, or household item in need of some love? Don’t toss it—fix it! Repair Café NC is bringing its hands-on, community repair workshop to Legacy Architectural Salvage. The Repair Café movement started in Amsterdam in 2009 to bring fixing back into everyday life, share valuable skills, and reduce waste.
At this free, volunteer-run event, you’ll work alongside experienced local coaches to diagnose and repair your items in a fun, relaxed environment. Advance registration is recommended.
Saturday, December 5th | 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Legacy Architectural Salvage
Behind Ace Hardware
1831-B Dawson St, Wilmington, NC
Join us for our December Song Circle at Legacy Architectural Salvage!
Our Song Circles are informal music gatherings where participants are invited to sit together in a circle to play instruments, sing, and share songs. This is a low-pressure opportunity to meet fellow local musicians and performers, share your own pieces, and enjoy great company.
Saturday, December 12th | 2:00 PM
Legacy Architectural Salvage
Behind Ace Hardware
1831 – B Dawson Street, Wilmington, NC
WED–FRI: 9AM-2PM
SAT: 9AM-3PM | SUN: 11AM-3PM
1831-B Dawson St.
Saving Pieces of Our Past
The Historic Wilmington Foundation works every day to keep historic buildings intact and in place. But when a structure is facing demolition, Legacy Architectural Salvage serves as the best-case option in a worst-case scenario. When a building is unable to be saved, Legacy steps in to save irreplaceable pieces of our past.
Our team of staff and volunteers deconstruct old buildings, salvaging wood, doors, windows, siding, and other architectural elements. These materials are then sold (at salvage prices!) to members of our community, who utilize them in restoration and rehabilitation projects. An operation of HWF, Legacy Architectural Salvage diverts tons of wood from the landfill, and places these salvaged elements right back into area homes, helping to preserve our region’s historic fabric.