The members of the C of C Historic Preservation Club put what they learn about historic architecture to good use and make friends while doing so.
Whether the students involved have always been interested in historic architecture, or found their way to it by accident, they say it is the people they meet in the club that keep them coming back.
“It helps me meet people I usually see in class in a more informal way,” said senior Erin Smith, co-treasurer of the club.
The students are also afforded the opportunity to get to know their professors. Kelly Wiles, the club’s co-president, said a recent hit among the students was the organization of a faculty versus student football game.
“We just started it last year, but we’re going to try to keep it going,” Wiles said.
Wiles said the faculty members they work with reach out to them, and that the students consider them mentors in this relatively small community.
“They know your names and they know what’s going on with you,” Wiles said.
When their meetings end, students stay and talk with each other. Senior Robyn Burrows, Wiles’ co-president, said getting to know people in her major adds familiarity to her classes.
Not only does the club meet twice monthly in the Hugh P. Cameron House at 12 Bull St., but they also host speakers, attend preservation-related events, visit local historic buildings and find ways to give back to the community.
The students are currently working on a landscape architecture project in the Cameron House backyard.
“We do this to get students involved in working with one another,” Burrows said.
The Historic Preservation Club visits many local historic houses and buildings. One of the group’s upcoming stops is a visit to local parish churches, many of which are still standing.
“We’re in such a prime location, it’s a shame not to get out and see these houses,” Wiles said.
The presidents say they consider Charleston a “working lab” and take advantage of all it has to offer.
“It’s great to be able to use the city as a venue for our major,” Wiles said.
The club also hosts speakers who they consider important figures in local planning, preservation, real estate and architecture.
“All the speakers that come and talk to us are my favorite part so far,” said Morgan Ward, a sophomore who has been involved with the club since fall semester.
Volunteer activities also play a part in the club’s involvement. In the past, they have volunteered with Habitat for Humanity and done environmentally friendly updates on a center for pregnant women.
Wiles said many of the people in the club are very active and enjoy hanging out with each other.
“All these people have become my friends,” Wiles said. “To have people interested in the same things you do is really special to find.”
The Historic Preservation Club meets on the first and third Thursday of every month on the first floor of 12 Bull St. For more information about the club, e-mail kwiles@edisto.cofc.edu.