BELFRY PROJECT
One of Manteo Preservation Trust’s most successful and visible projects has been its partnership with the county and Dare County Arts Council to restore the belfry to the county courthouse roof. This belfry was severely damaged during the storm of 1933 and had to be removed. With its reconstruction, the Manteo skyline changed in the matter of an hour as the belfry rose high above most other town structures.
Click here for a drawing of the old courthouse
Click here for a picture of the old courthouse
The 10,300-pound belfry slipped right into place on the morning of June 23, 2014, after a 10-minute rise to the top of the historic courthouse. Thanks to Renaissance Construction for taking on this project for MPT and doing a fantastic job, and thanks to the Dare County Arts Council for being great friends of MPT and assisting with this project. A big thank you also goes to the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau; MPT would not have been able to complete this vision without their help. And last, but certainly not least, MPT thanks Dare County’s Commissioners for supporting our vision of the belfry and courthouse.
TOWN HISTORIC PLAQUES PROJECT
Manteo Preservation Trust has an ongoing project to identify and catalog our town’s historic structures. Look for this plaque on island homes and businesses.
Click here for a detailed reference of the homes and buildings on the list.
MPT’S WAYSIDE EXHIBIT COASTAL VILLAGE TRAIL PROJECT
In development now, MPT’s Coastal Village Trail will wind you through the Town of Manteo on a self-guided tour to learn about our culture, heritage and architecture. Exhibits will detail history and facts as you walk along the trail.
MPT’S CHRISTMAS ORNAMENT PROJECT
New for 2014, we’ve designed a beautiful commemorative ornament that will be on sale at shops around Manteo. Of course, you can also buy one here. This ornament is produced by Design Masters, a company that has created famous White House ornaments, and will retail for $25.
OUT OF THE ATTIC PROJECT
Each Spring, MPT sponsors a day for folks to bring in old family photos that can add to the collection of Manteo memorabilia. These items are scanned on the spot, so you don’t risk losing them. We also encourage you to label your current pictures well! Remember that you, too, will be historic one day! Look for information on our Facebook page as to the specific date.
