The progress at historic Hayes in Edenton, North Carolina continues to unfold. After having been faithfully maintained for centuries by one family, the house is now emerging on a journey that will open the doors, and the story, to the world.
Preservationists, especially, are eagerly watching the process, as each new day seems to reveal yet another secret long held by this house. Furnishings original to the house are arriving from owners who hear of the transformation and generously donate or loan and return what once belonged here. Portraits and other paintings of significance have come home, and clues to architectural secrets come forth on a daily basis as restoration crews continue to uncover the work of past artisans.
Hayes is surrounded by multiple dependencies, all of which will be fully restored. The focus of today’s post, however, is the carriage house, which still contained James Johnston’s original carriage from the 1820’s, thanks to the dedication of the Wood family, who made sure to preserve it.