St. Johns County Recognized May 2024 as Historic Preservation Month

• 21 May 2024
• Category: SJC News District 2
• Tags: 2024

At the May 21, 2024, St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners Regular Meeting, Sarah Arnold, Chair, District 2 issued a proclamation recognizing May 2024 as Historic Preservation Month. State Representative Tom Leek, a representative from Congressman Michael Waltz’s office, St Johns County Growth Management – Environmental Department, St. Augustine Visitors Convention Bureau, Hastings Main Street, Inc., Great Expectations Realty, and Hastings community members attended the meeting to receive the proclamation.

This year, the County is shining a spotlight on Hastings, known as the “Potato Capital of Florida.” Hastings has played a significant role as a hub for farming and agricultural activities over the years and remains a charming example of small-town living in today’s ever-changing world. The community members and local business owners of Hastings have worked diligently to protect, preserve, and restore the town’s historic resources. Their efforts ensure that future generations of locals and visitors can enjoy the feeling of stepping back in time while creating new memories and opportunities for many years to come. For more information, check out this video.

The proclamation celebrates the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s establishment of Historic Preservation Month in 2005, an expansion of National Preservation Week which began in 1975. This month is dedicated to honoring and raising awareness about the importance of preserving our nation’s historic places and communities. It serves as a pledge to protect our cultural heritage for future generations.

Historic preservation is crucial for fostering community sustainability, economic stimulation, and local revitalization. This year’s theme, “People Saving Places,” highlights the efforts of communities, organizations, and individuals committed to protecting local and national historic treasures, giving them well-deserved recognition.

St. Johns County is particularly dedicated to discovering and safeguarding its significant cultural resources. These resources span 10,000 years of history, reflecting African, European, and Native American cultures that testify to life throughout the centuries in our county and beyond.

Learn more about Hastings Main Street.