Preserving the Past: My Appointment to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Historic Landmarks Commission
I’m excited to share some great news—I’ve been appointed to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Historic Landmarks Commission (HLC)! This is an incredible opportunity to contribute to the preservation and protection of historic sites that shape the cultural heritage of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County.
Why Historic Landmarks Matter
Historic landmarks tell the stories of our communities. They reflect the lives, struggles, and triumphs of those who came before us. Whether it’s a historic church, an old homestead, or a burial landscape, these places provide tangible connections to the past. Through my work in cemetery preservation, archaeology, and cultural resource management, I’ve seen firsthand how preserving historic spaces strengthens communities, fosters education, and honors the legacies of those who built them.
The HLC plays a vital role in this process by designating historic landmarks, reviewing preservation projects, and ensuring that historic sites remain protected for future generations. I’m honored to be part of this mission and to work alongside dedicated professionals and community advocates.
How This Aligns with My Work
As an archaeologist and preservation consultant, my focus has always been on understanding and protecting historic landscapes. My work has taken me from burial landscapes in South Carolina’s enslaved African cemeteries to historic church sites in Tennessee and freedmen’s settlements in North Carolina. Now, as a commissioner on the HLC, I have the opportunity to apply my expertise in a new way—helping to shape preservation policies and safeguard Charlotte’s rich history.
This appointment also reinforces my commitment to expanding my work with developers, preservationists, and community groups. Whether through cultural resource assessments, National Register nominations, or historic site evaluations, I’m eager to support projects that align with preservation best practices while balancing growth and development.
What’s Next?
In the coming months, I’ll be learning more about the commission’s active projects and priorities. I’m particularly excited about the potential to engage with communities, advocate for at-risk historic sites, and collaborate with professionals who share a passion for preservation.
If you’re involved in historic preservation, real estate development, or community planning, I’d love to connect and explore ways we can work together to ensure Charlotte’s history is protected for future generations.
How You Can Get Involved
Preservation is a collective effort! Here are a few ways to support historic preservation in Charlotte and beyond:
Attend public HLC meetings to stay informed about local preservation efforts.
Advocate for historic properties in your community by nominating sites for landmark designation.
Partner with preservation professionals to ensure that history is considered in development projects.
I’m excited to embark on this journey and to contribute to the work of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg HLC. If you’d like to discuss potential collaborations or have a historic site that needs assessment, feel free to reach out—I’d love to connect!
Here’s to preserving our past, honoring our histories, and supporting our future!
Christina Benton