About the Beaufort Historical Association
Preserving Beaufort’s History Since 1960
Founded by citizens who believed Carteret County’s history was worth protecting, the Beaufort Historical Association has operated as a private, non-profit organization for over six decades. Here is a closer look at who runs it, what drives it, and what it stands for.
Founded in 1960 by a group of Carteret County citizens without the aid of grants or public funds, the Beaufort Historical Association is a private, non-profit, membership and volunteer based organization that owns and operates the Beaufort Historic Site. Situated in the heart of the town’s historic district, the two-acre site encompasses six authentically restored buildings, including the Mattie King Davis Art Gallery, as well as the Old Burying Grounds. The Beaufort Historic Site reflects the Association’s dedication to the continued research and documentation of the peoples, customs, lifestyles, and artifacts of Beaufort’s past, and its commitment to preserving the town’s historic identity for future generations.
Mission Statement
To research, preserve and interpret the cultural, architectural and historical heritage of Beaufort and Carteret County, and to interest and educate current and future generations of this heritage.
2026 Board of Governors
- President: Marshall Beach
- 1st Vice President: John Phillips
- 2nd Vice President: Tom Forrester
- Secretary: Joan Shores
- Treasurer: Susan McGee
- Assistant Treasurer: Ali Ciampa
Members at Large
- Glad Atkins
- Doug Brady
- Debbie Carr
- Jim Cash
- Heidi Cawman
- Ruth Cecil
- Nicole DiGiacomo
- Nikki Dunn
- Karen Hardesty
- Jane Morris
- Walt O'Berry
- Heidi Radford
- Wes Ragland
- Stan Rule
- Bill Snyder
- Doug Townsend
- Anita Waff
A Certified Sustainable Destination
The Beaufort Historic Site is recognized as a sustainable destination through the NC GreenTravel Initiative, reflecting the Association’s commitment to responsible stewardship of the site and its surroundings.
Come See the Site Yourself
The Beaufort Historic Site is open to visitors, researchers, and school groups throughout the year. Plan your visit or get in touch today.