Reconstruction Era National Historical Park — Attraction in Beaufort

The Reconstruction Era HP was great! All the staff I interacted with were exceptionally courteous, helpful and knowledgeable. I'll preface my review by saying I'm an unapologetic history nerd, big supporter of the National Parks Service and have a particular interest in Reconstruction Era history.... that being said, this park can and should be enjoyed by EVERYONE! So, I'll tell the highlights of my tour,

Highlights: I highly recommend taking the walking tour (it was offered at 11am the day I went). When I took mine, it was well over 90 degrees with substantial humidity but my Ranger, Lee, made sure I was comfortable and had the presence in mind to take a route that had trees for nice breaks and shade. Shoot, Lee is so connected to the local community that a local caught our attention on the tour and invited us into a historic church; so like a bonus site (and very welcomed AC 🙂) In the 40 minute walking tour, I was able to see all the relevant sights within mere blocks of the building and Lee also put the significance Beaufort specifically and Reconstruction in general in the proper and in a comprehensible historical context. After the tour, I read the displays they had there at the Vistor Center and chatted with them there for a while. Frankly, I was so immersed in the history that I forgot to renew my parking (I think about $1.50 for 2 hours) and got a ticket for a "whopping" $10.... which I then paid in person at the parking ticket place a block away. The ticket guy there was also really helpful and gave some food recommendations, so it all worked out. Come to think of it, even Park Ranger Lee gave me a number of food recommendations and they even gave me a number of resources to use for my students back home (I am a history teacher).

Things to keep in mind and know before you go: The Visitor Center is rather small, but there are a number of historical sites in the surrounding area; many within a few blocks from the visitor center and others such Penn Center, just a couple miles away. Also, it is my understanding that in the area the customary weekend is Sunday through Monday or Tuesday, so be sure to check the business hours for places before you go so as not to be caught off guard.

All in all, a great place to visit and the staff there are amazing obviously passionate about...

I quite liked this National Park. The beauty of the buildings and Southern charm are everywhere. It's almost like a little Savanah. The Visitor Center is on the small size, however the history is all around the building, in the town itself. I understand Rec. Era NM is also new to the NPS community so progress is expected with signage around town and historical significance. Inside the VC were large pictures with the brief Who's, Who? Junior Ranger books were available from the lovely volunteer staff. As well as lots of helpful tips in the area. We lucked into a walking tour of the town with Ranger Powell today. It was a very easy walkable tour of the immediate area and buildings significance to past inhabitants. We walked the town and serene waterfront after our visit here. Nice day trip if you're visiting the area. Plan...

Unfortunately, the museum portion of the park is currently closed while they perform updates. But the ranger was very informative and helpful about suggesting areas of Beaufort to walk and do a self guided tour. There's a tremendous story here of our historical past and how it affected everyone's lifes.

Beaufort is a very charming town amongst the islands of the area. I loved the driving aspect just to reach this spot, going over many interconnecting bridges, tons of magnificent palm trees and willow trees overhanging the many streams, rivers and such.

Am planning a return trip in the spring to get the rest...