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Restoration of Davenport House to Begin in June

The Davenport House undergoing restoration, preserving its historical significance.

News Summary

The Davenport House in Savannah, GA, is set for its first major exterior restoration in over three decades. The extensive project includes repairs to masonry, windows, and porches, ensuring the integrity of this historic site. Managed by architect Brian Felder, the initiative comes after a thorough assessment highlighted the need for restoration. The Davenport House, opened as a museum in 1963, has been a significant landmark and catalyst for Savannah’s historic preservation movement. Stakeholders emphasize the project’s importance for future generations.

Restoration of Davenport House to Begin in June 2025

Savannah, GA – The Davenport House, an iconic historic property dating back to c. 1820, is set to undergo its first major exterior restoration in over three decades, commencing in early June 2025 and anticipated for completion by December 2025. Operated by the Historic Savannah Foundation, the Davenport House is a significant site, attracting more than 40,000 visitors each year.

Details of the Restoration Project

The extensive restoration project will involve a range of essential work activities including the cleaning, repair, and repointing of masonry, reconstruction of the rear porch and stairs, as well as the repair and repainting of windows, doors, shutters, iron grills, and railings. These efforts have received the green light from the Historic District Board of Review, which granted approval of the project with conditions.

The initiative was prompted by a detailed Exterior Conditions Assessment, which was drafted by the Director of Preservation and Historic Properties, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive restoration of the building. The project will be managed by architect Brian Felder from Felder and Associates, a firm also responsible for the construction of the Preservation Center. Garbutt Construction, based in Pooler, GA, has been selected as the contractor for the restoration work.

Significance of the Davenport House

The Davenport House, located at 324 E. State St. on Columbia Square, is not only a historic building but also the catalyst for Savannah’s historic preservation movement initiated in 1955. Designed by carpenter Isaiah Davenport, the house was saved from demolition by a group of local women and officially opened as a house museum in 1963, allowing public access to its rich history ever since.

The Davenport House received notable recognition, winning a Preserve America Presidential Award, in addition to multiple awards from the Georgia Association of Museums in both 2023 and 2025. These accolades underline the importance of the house not only to the local community but also to the broader historical narrative.

Conclusion

As the Davenport House prepares for this major exterior restoration project, stakeholders emphasize the importance of preserving the structural integrity and historical value of the building. The approval from the Historic District Board of Review signifies cooperative efforts towards maintaining this vital piece of Savannah’s heritage, ensuring that future generations can appreciate its historical significance.