HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda - 05-26-1998 - C-2(a-d)y ~ ~~ ,
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ORANGE COUNTY
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
PUBLIC HEARING AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date: Mav 26, 1998
Agenda Abstract
Item# C 2(a-d)
SUBJECT: Designation of Orange County Historic Landmarks
DEPARTMENT: Planning and Inspections PUBLIC HEARING: X Yes No
BUDGET AMENDMENT REQUIRED: Yes X No
ATTACHMENTS:
Executive Summary: Preserving the Orange Tradition:
A Landmark Designation Program for Orange County
Property Owner Notification Letters and Consent Forms
Landmark Designation Reports
Minutes of Historic Preservation Commission Meeting,
February 25, 1998
Comments on Designation Reports by State Historic
Preservation Office
Minutes of Historic Preservation Commission Meeting,
March 25, 1998
Draft Ordinances for Local Landmark Designation:
Bingham School
Chatwood
Moorefields
Rigsbee's Rock House
INFORMATION CONTACT:
Don Belk
Preservation Planner/ X2594
PHONE NUMBERS:
Hillsborough 732-8181
Mebane 227-2031
Durham 688-7331
Chapel Hill 967-9251
PURPOSE: To receive citizen comment on the proposed ordinances to designate four (4) Orange
County Historic Landmarks.
BACKGROUND: In April 1991, Orange County adopted the Ordinance Creating the Historic
Preservation Commission (HPC) of Orange County, also referred to as the
"Historic Preservation Ordinance" . In accordance with Section 1.7 of this
Ordinance, the Historic Preservation Commission may recommend to the County
Commissioners areas to be designated by ordinance as "historic districts" and
individual structures, buildings, sites, areas or objects to be designated by
ordinance as "landmarks". Article 3 of the Historic Preservation Ordinance
describes the procedure for designating local historic landmarks.
The Orange County Historic Preservation Plan, an element of the Orange County
Comprehensive Plan, was adopted in April 1996. The Preservation Plan guides the
County's historic preservation activities by providing an outline of goals, objectives,
and action strategies that serve as a program of work for the Orange County Historic
Preservation Commission. The Preservation Plan describes Orange County's
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BACKGROUND: historical development, assesses the status of historical resources, and outlines the
(continued) historic preservation efforts that are currently underway. The Element lists specific
action strategies that direct the work of the Orange County Historic Preservation
Commission, including a program to designate County historic landmarks.
One of the strategies described in the Historic Preservation Element is the
development of a prioritized list of properties for consideration as local historic
landmarks. During 1996, the HPC developed a methodology for evaluating and
ranking the County's most significant historic resources. Priority consideration for
local landmark designation was given to the County's existing sites that are listed on
the National Register of Historic Places.
In August 1997, the Planning Deparunent staff prepared a detailed report on
implementing a local landmark designation program. The report, Preserving the
Orange Tradition, describes the authority for instituting such a program, describes
the local historic designation process, and examines the costs of the program. The
report includes draft ordinances for designation of Orange County's first local
historic landmarks. The Executive Summary of this report is attached.
Four (4) current National Register sites: Moorefields, Bingham School, Chatwood,
and the Rigsbee's Rock House, were selected by the Historic Preservation
Commission for consideration as Orange County's first locally designated historic
landmarks. The owners of these sites were notified by certified mail of the HPC's
intent to recommend them for local landmark designation. Each owner consented
to having their property designated as a local landmark (notification letters and
signed consent forms are attached)..' As required by the Historic Preservation
Ordinance, designation reports were prepared for these sites. Since the sites were
previously listed on the National Register, the reports consisted of a cover memo
describing the sites' current condition along with photographs of the structures.
National Register nomination forms were provided as an attachment to the reports.
The designation reports were reviewed by the Historic Preservation Commission
on February 25, 1998. (The landmark designation reports and HPC comments of
2-25-98 are attached. National Register nomination forms are not included in this
agenda material but are on file in the Planning and Inspections Department. )
Following the meeting, the designation reports were forwarded to the State Historic
Preservation Office for comment (SHPO comments are attached.) At their
meeting of March 25, 1998, the HPC recommended these sites for local landmark
designation, and requested this matter be considered at the Public Hearing on May
26, 1998 (HPC comments of 3-25-98 are attached).
Summary descriptions of the four (4) sites recommended for local landmark
designation follow.
LHD-1-98 MOOREFIELDS (National Register Site 1~0185~
Moorefields is located in the Cheeks Township, at the end of an unpaved lane
0.4 miles from Moorefields Road (SR 1135). The entrance to the lane is
approximately 0.4 miles west from the northernmost junction of Dimmocks
Mill Road (SR 1134) and Moorefields Road. Moorefields is also described as
Lot 3, Cheeks Orange County Property Map 51.
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BACKGROUND: Moorefields was built circa 1785 by Alfred Moore, a hero of the American
(continued) Revolution and one of North Carolina's foremost jurists. In 1798, Moore became
the second North Carolinian appointed to serve on the US Supreme Court. Moore
County, NC is named for him. The structure, is one of the earliest appearances of
the Federal style in North Carolina, was listed on the National Register of Historic
Places on Apri125, 1972.
LHD-2-98 BINGHAM SCHOOL (National Register Site #0513)
The Bingham School is located in the Bingham Township at the Oaks Crossroads,
approximately 400 feet northeast of the intersection of NC Highway 54 and
Mebane Oaks Road (SR 1007). Bingham Schooi is also described as Lot 19,
Bingham Orange County Property Map 17.
This property consists of a complex of buildings from several periods, including an
L-shaped house composed of small early 19`s century buildings and the stately mid-
19~' century Greek Revival house, as well as several outbuildings. The property
was the site of the Bingham School from 1845 until 1864. Bingham School was
one of a series of North Carolina locations of a school established by William J.
Bingham of Hillsborough. These schools were continued by his sons and
grandsons, and gained a statewide reputation for academic excellence. The
Bingham School was listed on the National Register of Historic Places on January
18, 1978.
LHD-3-98 CHATWOOD (National Register Site #1371)
Chatwood is located in the Cheeks Township on the south side of Faucette Mill
Road (SR 1328), approximately 500 feet west of the junction of SR 1328 and
Frank Perry Road (SR 1379). Chatwood is also described as Lot 8B, Cheeks
Orange County Property Map 15.
The property, originally known as the Faucett House, is a very well preserved 2
'h-story frame Federal Style house, constructed circa 1808. It is part of a grist mill
complex that stands along aquarter-mile section of the old "Great Road" that
forded the Eno River at this point, two miles northwest of Hillsborough. The
structure is thought to have served as an inn for travelers when the ford was
uncrossable. The structure was listed on the National Register, along with the
Faucett Mill, on August 4, 1988.
LHD-4-98 RIGSBEE'S ROCK HOUSE (National Register Site #1382)
Rigsbee's Rock House is located in the Eno Township at the southwest comer of
the intersection of Lawrence Road (SR 1709) and US Highway 70 Business, east of
Hillsborough. Rigsbee's Rock House is also described as Lot 9, Block B, Eno
Orange County Property Map 3.
The property was built circa 1929 in the Tudor Revival Style. The exterior of
the house is constructed almost entirely of white flint rubble rock, with a rock wall
surrounding the property on three sides. An original two car, detached garage, a
pump house, and an outdoor swimming pool located on the property are also
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BACKGROUND: constructed of white flint rubble rock. The house is known in local folklore as the
(continued) center of Prohibition bootlegging activity in Orange County. It was built for Mack
Rigsbee, one of Hillsborough's most colorful characters during the 1930's and
1940's. The house interior contains unusual architectural features that created
large internal storage areas, providing possible corroboration for the Rigsbee
moonshine legend. Rigsbee's Rock House was listed on the National Register of
Historic Places on October 20, 1988.
Draft ordinances designating these properties as Orange County Historic
Landmarks are attached.
Designation as a Local Historic Landmark has several significant benefits. Local
landmark designation provides a higher level of protection than National Register
listing alone. Landmark designation effectively protects the historic resource
against inappropriate changes that would lessen the site's significance. Owners of
historic landmarks who wish to make changes to the exteriors of their properties
must receive approval from the Historic Preservation Commission before
commencing work. As compensation for accepting the responsibilities of landmark
status, owners of locally designated properties are eligible for a fifty percent
property tax deferral, which will remain in effect as long as landmark status is
maintained. Owners of local historic landmarks are also given extra consideration
during the development review process.
Finally, local landmark designation is a prestigious honor. Landmark property
owners can take pride in knowing their property is important to the heritage of the
County.
RECOIVIII~IENDATTON: The Ordinance Creating the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) of
Orange County, adopted in April 1991, authorizes the HPC to recommend
designation of historic landmarks. The four (4) proposed Orange County
Historic Landmarks will be the first properties to be designated in
accordance with this Ordinance.
Administration Recommendation
The Administration recommends that ordinances for the designation of
four (4) proposed Orange County Historic Landmarks be referred to the
Historic Preservation Commission for recommendations to be returned
to the Board of County Commissioners no sooner than June 22, 1998.
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Preserving the Orange Tradition: A Landmark
Designation Program for Orange County
Prepared for the
Orange County Historic Preservation Commission by the Staff of the
Orange County Planning Department
August, 1997
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
(;.r~.Andrews House, ca. 12f92f
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
1
Introduction
This report, Preserving the Orange Tradition, updates and expands upon a previous
departmental report on landmazk designation. Preserving the Orange Tradition provides
an in-depth discussion of the designation of historic landmarks in Orange County. It
describes the authority for instituting such a program, describes the local historic
designation process, and examines the costs of the program. The report includes draft
ordinances for designation of Orange County's first local historic landmazks. It also
includes draft design guidelines.
Landmazk designation programs are an accepted practice of local governments in North
Cazolina. Seventy-three historic landmazks, districts or preservation commissions have
been established in the state, representing 120 local governments. Among these, twenty
counties have established preservation commissions.
2
Background
Under authority granted by the North Carolina General Statues, Orange County adopted
an ordinance on April 1, 1991, and established a historic preservation commission. The
Orange County HPC has undertaken a comprehensive preservation program to date. The
County has completed historic architectural resource inventories in all its townships, an
archeological survey, and a historic preservation element to the Comprehensive Plan.
Most recently, the Historic Preservation Commission has completed a manuscript of
Orange County's azchitectural history. A National Register nomination for the Cedaz
Grove Rural Historic District is in progress.
For the 1997-98 fiscal yeaz, the development of a historic landmazks designation program
will be the Commission's most significant undertaking. A local designation program
would be the most effective means available in preserving historical resources from
degradation and destruction, providing regulatory protection of those sites deemed
important to the County's heritage and history. The HPC will establish a priority list of
the County's best National Register and National Register-eligible properties and seek the
owners' participation in the landmazk designation program. The Commission has
requested an allocation of $10,000 in the FY 1997-98 County budget to establish a
Historic Preservation Program Fund. The fund would be used to prepare National
Register nominations for high-priority, eligible sites.
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Designation of Historic Landmarks
Historic landmark designation of a building, site, or district occurs by adoption of an
ordinance by the Boazd of Commissioners. Along with the requirements and benefits
incurred by the designation, landmazk designation is an honor of distinction. It is a
source of pride for the property owner, whose property has been formally recognized as
important to the history and cultural heritage of Orange County.
Orange County's landmazk designation program will be voluntary. Owners of eligible
properties will be invited by the HPC to participate, with the option to decline if they
wish.
There aze two major consequences of landmazk designation for property owners. First, an
owner who wishes to make certain changes to the exterior of his or her property must
have plans reviewed and approved by the Historic Preservation Commission. Secondly,
an owner of a designated landmazk may apply for an annual fifty percent property tax
deferral for as long as the property's historical significance is maintained.
A certificate of appropriateness (COA) is required before making any changes to the
site's exterior. The Historic Preservation Commission will review the application and
rule on the appropriateness of the proposed change. The Commission may deny the
applicant a COA if it finds the proposed work will adversely affect the special character
of the landmazk. HPC review is not required for routine maintenance and upkeep.
The enabling legislation allows the Boazd of County Commissioners to establish a fifty
percent tax deferral for designated landmazks. This is a substantial financial benefit
available to landmazk property owners. To receive the deferral, the owner must apply to
the Tax Assessor for a reduced valuation of the property. The reduction in value is
assigned only to real property (land and structures). The property owner will remain
eligible for the tax deferral as long as the historical or azchitectural integrity of the
landmazk is maintained. If the property loses its eligibility for the tax deferral, the owner
must pay the deferred taxes for the current yeaz and the three preceding yeazs, plus
interest.
Other incentives for participating in the landmazks designation program include the
preparation of a National Register nomination at no cost to the owner. This applies to
National Register-eligible properties, pending available funds. Also, a bronze historic
mazker may also be made available for designated properties.
At present, there are eight sites in Orange County's planning jurisdiction listed on the
National Register of Historic Places. The first group of County-designated landmazks
will be selected from these sites. Thirty-nine other sites aze included on the National
Register Study List, and considered potentially eligible for the National Register. (The
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HPC will rank the eligibility of sites from this group.) Over six hundred sites of historic
significance aze identified in the County's historic resources survey. A small number of
these sites may eventually achieve landmark status; however, the National Register and
NRSL sites will comprise the selection group for designation during the initial years of
the program.
The Historic Preservation Commission will select sites to recommend for landmazk
designation. The selection will be based on evaluation criteria developed by the HPC.
The Commission has developed a Historic Sites Scoring Criteria as a method to rank the
quality of resources. This ranking will result in a priority list, consisting of ten to fifteen
sites and will be updated annually. The number of sites selected annually for designation
will depend upon the availability of funding from the Board of Commissioners. After a
site is earmazked, a designation report is prepared. If the site is determined to be eligible
for the National Register, the report will consist of a National Register nomination form.
If the site is ineligible for National Register consideration, but otherwise significant and
worthy of local landmazk status, a local designation report is required.
Upon completion of the landmark designation report, it must be submitted to the State
Historic Preservation Office for comment. Review and comment by the SHPO will occur
before the HPC's recommendation to the Boazd of Commissioners.
The county's historic preservation ordinance outlines the specific steps of the landmazk
designation procedure. The HPC will recommend a historic landmazk designation to the
Board of Commissioners and request a public hearing on the draft designation ordinance. A
joint public hearing will beheld quarterly during the calendar yeaz to consider
recommended sites. Sites that are recommended for listing on the National Register of
Historic Places and local landmark designation undergo a slightly different procedure that
will entail both state and federal review and approval.
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Effect of the Loss of Revenue from Fifty Percent Tag Deferral
Should the Boazd of Commissioners choose to establish a landmarks designation program,
the benefit of a fifty percent tax deferral to landmark property owners would result in a
small loss of revenue from the general fund. Based on 1997 property assessments, the first
yeaz tax revenue loss if all National Register and National Register Study List sites (a
total of 46 properties) were locally designated would be $12,223.10. However, this loss in
revenue is minuscule in comparison to total revenues generated by property taxes, and
represents 0.023% of total property tax revenues.
Another consideration is whether to allow the fifty percent tax deferral benefit for landmazk
property owners who are currently receiving the tax deferment for forest or farm use.
Allowing the dual deferment would not significantly increase the revenue loss incurred by
landmark designation, but it would serve as an additional incentive for a property owner to
participate in the designation program. Any minor tax revenue loss could be offset by an
upturn in the growth of the tax base, as predicted in the 1996-97 annual budget.
Furthermore, if the property is inappropriately altered or demolished, the owner must
repay three yeazs of back taxes, with interest. Finally, limited funding and documentation
requirements will pace the designation process. Even with an annual appropriation of
$10,000 proposed for a historic preservation fund, only 3-5 sites would likely be
designated in a given yeaz.
5
Benefits of Landmark Designation
There aze numerous benefits to owners of designated landmarks, particularly those also
listed on the National Register of Historic Places. National Register listing is a
prestigious honor for a property deemed important to the Nation's heritage. National
Register sites receive extra consideration and protection in the planning of federally
funded projects such as highway construction, public housing projects, or state-planned
projects that involve licensing and funding by the federal government. Owners of
incoming-producing National Register sites may also be eligible fora 20% federal
income tax credit for rehabilitation projects.
In June 1997, the General Assembly enacted a 30% state income tax credit for
expenditures to rehabilitate historic structures. This tax credit can apply to owners of
historic structures that aze non-income producing properties; i.e., owner-occupied
residences, who undertake at least $25,000 of certified rehabilitation work within a 24-
month period. Another provision of the new legislation allows owners of incoming-
producing National Register sites to piggyback a 20% state income tax credit onto the
20% federal income tax credit. The statute takes effect January 1, 1998.
Local landmark desi nag t~provides a higher level of protection than National Register
listin ag lone, effectively protecting the historic resource against inappropriate changes
that would lessen its significance. Landmark property owners can take pride in knowing
their property is important to the heritage of Orange County. Owners of locally
designated landmazks benefit substantially from the fifty percent deferral of property tax,
which remains in effect as long as landmark status is maintained. They also may avail
themselves of the expertise of Historic Preservation Commission members and
restoration professionals at the State Historic Preservation Office, who can provide
technical assistance and information. Local landmazk designation gives the property
owner additional consideration when major subdivisions aze proposed on adjacent
properties, in accordance with the Flexible Development provisions of the County's
Subdivision ordinance.
A local landmark designation program can result in many benefits to the community,
most immediately the protection of our most treasured historic resources. Local
designation does not prohibit changes to properties - it simply protects against
inappropriate exterior changes that aze incongruous to the chazacter of the landmark.
Likewise, local designation does not prevent the demolition of a landmazk, but it does
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allow the HPC to delay it for up to a yeaz while the Commission seeks preservation
alternatives.
Preservation of historic resources through local designation can be a significant and
beneficial factor in the local economy. The rehabilitation of historic buildings can
generate jobs, creating more„jobs than the same investment in new construction. Historic
rehabilitation activities have significant "multiplier effects" to the local economy,
creating a positive impact on other business and to the local tax base. It can also be cost
effective and sustainable, promoting the reuse and recycling of buildin~~materials and
reducing the volume of construction and demolition debris in the waste stream.
A local historic preservation program can be the foundation for promoting heritage
tourism, which is the fastest-growing segment of the tourism industry in North Carolina.
This trend beazs further consideration by a broad group of pertinent interests in the
County, such as visitors' bureaus, economic development proponents, and
preservationists.
A local historic preservation program has significant educational value for the enrichment
of County citizens. The preservation of historic architectural resources and landscapes
provide examples of past architectural styles, construction methods, and materials.
Research for landmazk designation reports will increase our knowledge of local history.
A local historic preservation program protects the County's historical heritage and
enhances the quality of life for its citizens and visitors. Preservation of historic
azchitectur and landscape helps define traditions and values for the present and the
future. It is a significant factor in Orange County's successful economic growth into the
21st century.
6
Conclusion and Recommendations
A local landmazk designation program is an effective tool for protecting historic
resources and promoting the values of preservation. The Boazd of Commissioners has the
authority to implement such a program. It is consistent with existing planning goals and
the Boazd's proven commitment to protecting its cultural resources. A landmark
designation program is the next logical step in the County's comprehensive historic
preservation program, building upon the extensive historic resource inventories and the
historic preservation element of the county's Comprehensive Plan. A landmarks program
would place Orange County in the mainstream of local government historic preservation
programs in North Cazolina.
The Historic Preservation Commission enthusiastically recommends the adoption of a
local landmark designation program. The HPC also recommends that $10,000 be
appropriated annually to establish a Historic Preservation Fund for National Register
nominations and local designation reports.
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ORANGE COUNTY PLANNING DEPARTMENT ~ O ~
306F REVERE ROAD '
~ HILLSBOROUGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27278
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CERTIFIED LETTER
February 17, 1998
Francois & Christina Deprez
The Inn at Bingham School
Post Office Box 267
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Re: Historic Preservation Commission Meeting, February 25, 1998
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Deprez:
This is an official notice to inform you that the Orange County Historic Preservation
Commission is considering the designation of your property, The Inn at Bingham School,
described as being located at the intersection of Mebane-Oaks Road and NC Highway
54, as an Orange County Historic Landmark.
This matter will be discussed at the meeting of the Orange County Historic Preservation
Commission to be held on Wednesday, February 25, 1998 at 7:00 p.m., in the
Conference Room of the Planning and Agriculture Center at 306 Revere Road,
Hillsborough, North Carolina. You are cordially invited to attend.
For additional information, please contact the Orange County Planning Department,
(919) 967-9251 (Chapel Hill), 227-2031 (Mebane), 732-8181 (Hillsborough), or 688-
7331 (Durham), extension 2594.
Sincerely,
Donald R Bells, AICP
Preservation Planner
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enclosure --
cc: Gene Bell, Acting Planning Director
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HISTORIC LANDMARI{ DESIGNATION
REQUEST FOR OWNER CONSENT
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HISTORIC PROPERTY NAME: The Inn at Bingham School
HISTORIC PROPERTY LOCATION: The Oaks vicinity, near the intersection of SR 1007
and NC 54.
OWNERS OF HISTORIC PROPERTY:
Francois and Christina Deprez
Post Office Bos 267
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
(919) 563-5583
PLEASE CHECK ONE:
~Yes~ I would like the Orange County Historic Preservation Commission to
proceed with the historic designation of the above property.
Noy I do not want the above property designated as a historic landmark at
this time.
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NATURE DATE
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SIGNA ATE
P ORANGE COUNTY PLANNING DEPARTMENT
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306F REVERE ROAD
~ HILLSBOROUGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27278
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CERTIFI LETTER
February 17, 1998
Bruce and Susan Lueck
1900 Faucette Mill Road
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Re: Historic Preservation Commission Meeting, February 25, 1998
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Lueck:
_ This is an official notice to inform you that the Orange County Historic Preservation
Commission is considering the designation of your property, Chatwood, described as being
located at 1900 Faucette Mill Road, as an Orange County Historic Landmark.
This matter will be discussed at the meeting of the Orange County Historic Preservation
Commission to be held on Wednesday, February 25, 1998 at 7:00 p.m., in the
Conference Room of the Planning and Agriculture Center at 306 Revere Road,
Hillsborough, North Carolina. You are cordially invited to attend.
For additional information, please contact the Orange County Planning Department,
(919) 967-9251 (Chapel Hill), 227-2031 (Mebane), 732-8181 (Hillsborough), or 688-
7331 (Durham), extension 2594.
Sincerely, ,~
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Donald R Bells, AICP
Preservation Planner
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enclosure
cc: Gene Bell, Acting Planning Director
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HISTORIC LANDMARK DESIGNATION
REQUEST FOR OWNER CONSENT
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HISTORIC PROPERTY NAME: Chatwood
HISTORIC PROPERTY LOCATION: Cheeks Township, near the intersection of SR 1379
and SR 1328.
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OWNERS OF HISTORIC PROPERTY:
Bruce and Susan Lueck
1900 Faucette Mill Road
Hillsborough, NC 27278
(919) 644-0791
PLEASE CHECK ONE:
Yes I would like the Orange County Historic Preservation Commission to
proceed with the historic designation of the above property.
Q Noy I da not want the above property designated as a historic landmark at
this time.
G Z~ f /
SIGNATURE DATE
SIGNATURE DATE
k ' '~' ORANGE COUNTY PLANNING DEPARTMENT U ~;~
306F REVERE ROAD
HILLSBOROUGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27278
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3anuary 28, 1998
Moorefields, c/o
Mr. Barry Jacobs
2105 Moorefields Road
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Re: Local Landmark Designation of the Moorefields Estate
Dear Mr. Jacobs:
Thank you for granting us permission to proceed with the above-referenced designation. Please accept my
apology for the lengthy delay in contacting you about the landmark designation process. Unexpected
personnel changes in our department have forced us to alter the completion dates for several projects.
However, historic designation of your property remains a priority, and I am glad to infonn you that we are
proceeding with this effort.
At the February 25, 1998 meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC), a report on the proposed
landmark designation of Moorefields will be considered. If the report is accepted by the HPC, it will be
forwarded to the State Historic Preservation Office, North Carolina Division of Archives and History, for
review and comment. The State has 30 days in which to comment upon the report. Upon return of their
comments, the Historic Preservation Commission may forward a request to the Orange County Board of
Commissioners to adopt an ordinance designating Moorefields as a County Historic Landmark.
You will be notified by mail approximately one week prior to the February HPC meeting.
Again, I apologize for the delay. Please be assured that the process is underway. If you have any questions,
please do not hesitate to call me at 732-8181, extension 2594.
Sincerely,
Donald R. Belk, AICP
Preservation Planner
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ORANGE COUNTY PLANNING DEPARTMENT
306F REVERE ROAD
~ HILLSBOROUGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27278
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CERTIFIE ETTER
February 17, 1998
James and Judith Singleton
1529 US Hwy 70A East
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Re: Historic Preservation Commission Meeting, February 25, 1998
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Singleton:
This is an official notice to inform you that the Orange County Historic Preservation
Commission is considering the designation of your property, Rigsbee's Rock House,
described as being located at 1529 US Highway 70A East, as an Orange County Historic
Landmark.
This matter will be discussed at the meeting of the Orange County Historic Preservation
Commission to be held on Wednesday, February 25, 1998 at 7:00 p.m., in the
Conference Room of the Planning and Agriculture Center at 306 Revere Road,
Hillsborough, North Cazolina. You are cordially invited to attend.
For additional information, please contact the Orange County Planning Department,
(919) 967-9251 (Chapel Hill), 227-2031 (Mebane), 732-8181 (Hillsborough), or 688-
7331 (Durham), extension 2594.
Sincerely,
~~~'~~~
Wald R Belk, AICP
Preservation Planner
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enclosure - -
cc: Gene Bell, Acting Planning Director
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HISTORIC LANDMARK DESIGNATION
REQUEST FOR OWNER CONSENT
HISTORIC PROPERTY NAME: Rigsbee's Rock House
HISTORIC PROPERTY LOCATION: Hillsborough vicinity, near the intersection of SR 1709 and U.S.
Highway 70 Alternate.
OWNER OF HISTORIC PROPERTY:
James Sin Teton ~v ~1 ~ ~~ ~ ~ ~ S • '.3• (~
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1529 US Hwy 7 A East
Hillsborough, NC 27278
(919)732-5288
PLEASE CHECK ONE:
(~ Yes} I would like the Orange County Historic Preservation Commission to
,f ~ proceed with the historic designation of the above property.
Noy I do not want the above property designated as a historic landmazk at
this time.
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GNATU DATE
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M E M O R A N D U M
Orange County Planning & Inspections Department
306F Revere Road Hillsborough, NC 27278
Telephone: (919) 732-8181
E-mail: dbelk@co.orange.nc.us
FAX (919) 644-3002
To: Melinda Coleman, Preservation Commission Services Coordinator, State Historic
Preservation Office
From: Donald R. Belk, Planner II/Preservation GG'c~/~
Date: February 27, 1998
Subject: LOCAL LANDMARK DESIGNATION REPORT FOR BINGHAM SCHOOL,
LHD-2-98, NR #0513
Copies: Orange County Historic Preservation Commission
On February 25, 1998, the Orange County Historic Preservation accepted the Planning Department's
recommendation to pursue local historic landmazk designation for Bingham School, a National Register
property within the County's jurisdictional area.
In lieu of a survey and research report, I have attached the National Register of Historic Places
Registration Form. I have also attached current photographs of the house and a vicinity map showing the
location of Bingham School.
Description and Summary of Chances. The description of Bingham School contained in the Registration
Fonn, dated July 1977, remains an accurate portrait of the site today. There has been one significant
change to the property since the form was completed. A one-story, brick guest house with a gabled tin
roof was built to serve the current bed-and-breakfast operation, The Inn at Bingham School. This three-
room structure was built upon the foundation of an early 20th century milkhouse using bricks recycled
from other areas on the property. The guest house is located to the reaz of the main house, next to the
wellhouse and smokehouse. It is not visible when approaching from the north or south along Mebane-
Oaks Road.
Bingham School is well-maintained by the current owners, who have consented to the HPC's proposal to
pursue landmark designation. The site is under restrictive covenants with Preservation/NC and was the
first property sold under the foundation's nationally-reknown revolving fund.
I look forwazd to receiving your comments on this site as a proposed local historic landmark. Please feel
free to call me at 732-8181, extension 2594.
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Bingham School, ca. 1845
LHD-2-98
Orange County Historic Preservation Commission
Rear ell, south and east facades
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Rear ell, west facade. Rear ell is actually composed of two buildings.
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M E M O R A N D U M
Orange County Planning & Inspections Department
306F Revere Road Hillsborough, NC 27278
Telephone: (919) 732-8181
E-mail: dbelk@co.orange.nc.us
FAX (919) 644-3002
To: Melinda Coleman, Preservation Commission Services Coordinator, State
Historic Preservation Off ce ~ ~ ~~
From: Donald R. Belk, Planner IIJPreservation 6'~~~r.~C,G(~ ~~ti'-
Date: February 27, 1998
Subject: LOCAL HISTORIC LANDMARK DESIGNATION FOR CHATWOOD,
LHD-3-98, NR #1371
Copies: Orange County Historic Preservation Commission
On February 25, 1998, the Orange County Historic Preservation accepted the Planning
Department's recommendation to pursue local historic landmazk designation for the Chatwood
estate, a National Register property within the County's jurisdictional azea.
In lieu of a survey and reseazch report, I have attached the National Register of Historic Places
Registration Form. I have also attached current photographs of the house and a vicinity map
showing the location of Chatwood.
Description and Summary of Changes. The description of Chatwood contained in the Registration
Form, dated June 1988, remains an accurate portrait of the site today. There has been one
significant change to the house since the form was completed. The Naile Johnson wing, an eazly
19th century house which was appended to the main house in 1938, included afull-width screen
porch. Today, the porch is enclosed, with full-length, twelve-over-twelve pane windows on the
south facade, three nine-over-nine pane windows on the west facade, and two nine-over-nine's and
an entrance door on the east facade. The windowed porch remains very much an open, light-
gathering space; therefore, it does not seriously alter the attributes of the 1938 addition.
The Chatwood estate is well-maintained by the current owners, who have consented to the HPC's
proposal to pursue landmark designation. Furthermore, the property is under restrictive covenants
with Preservation/NC.
I took forwazd to receiving your comments on this site as a proposed local historic landmazk.
Please feel free to call me at 732-8181, extension 2594.
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Chatwood, ca. 1808
LHD-3-98
Orange County Historic Preservation Commission
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M E M O R A N D U M
Orange County Planning & Inspections Department
306F Revere Road Hillsborough, NC 27278
Telephone: (919) 732-8181
E-mail: dbelk@co.orange.nc.us
FAX (919) 644-3002
To: Melinda Coleman, Preservation Commission Services Coordinator, State
Historic Preservation Office
From: Donald R. Belk, Planner II/Preservation ,~~.vfi~ii
Date: February 27, 1998
Subject: LOCAL LANDMARK DESIGNATION REPORT FOR MOOREFIELDS,
LHD-1-98, NR# 0185
Copies: Orange County Historic Preservation Commission
On February 25, 1998, the Orange County Historic Preservation accepted the Planning
Department's recommendation to pursue local historic landmazk designation for Moorefields, a
National Register property within the County's jurisdictional azea. In lieu of a survey and reseazch
report, I have enclosed the National Register of Historic Places Registration Form. I have also
enclosed current photographs of the house and a vicinity map showing the location of Moorefields.
The description of Moorefields contained in the Registration Form, dated January 1972, is an
accurate depiction of the site today; however, a few minor changes have been made to the house
since the National Register nomination. An entrance door on the east facade of the east wing was
removed, and two six-over-nine windows were added. The chimney at the junction of the main
block and east wing was replaced. Moorefields is well-maintained by the current owners, under the
supervisor of a site manager. The owners have consented to the HPC's proposal to pursue
landmark designation.
I look forwazd to receiving your comments on this site as a proposed local historic landmazk.
Please feel free to call me at 732-8181, extension 2594.
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Orange County Planning & Inspections Department
306F Revere Road Hillsborough, NC 27278
Telephone: (919) 732-8181
E-mail: dbelk@co.orange.nc.us
FAX (919) 644-3002
To: Melinda Coleman, Preservation Commission Services Coordinator, State
Historic Preservation Office
From: Donald R. Belk, Planner II/Preservation /,~~
Date: February 27, 1998
Subject: LOCAL HISTORIC LANDMARK DESIGNATION FOR RIGSBEE'S
ROCK HOUSE, LHD-4-98, NR #1382
Copies: Orange County Historic Preservation Commission
On February 25, 1998, the Orange County Historic Preservation accepted the Planning
Department's recommendation to pursue local historic landmazk designation for Rigsbee's
Rock House, a National Register property within the County's jurisdictional area.
In lieu of a survey and reseazch report, I have attached the National Register of Historic
Places Registration Form. I have also attached current photographs of the house and a
vicinity map showing the location of Rigsbee's Rock House.
The description of Rigsbee's Rock House contained in the Registration Form, dated
September 1988, remains true for the site today. No alterations have been made to the
structure since the National Register nomination was completed. Rigsbee's Rock House is
well-maintained by the current owners, who have meticulously repaired several areas of
damage to the white flint rubble rock wall that surrounds the property on three sides. The
owners have consented to the HPC's proposal to pursue landmazk designation.
I look forwazd to receiving your comments on this site as a proposed local historic
landmazk. Please feel free to call me at 732-8181, extension 2594.
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Excerpt from minutes of HPC Meeting, 2-25-98
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AGENDA ITEM #5: ITEMS FOR DECISION
a. Consideration of Landmark Designation Reports
(1) Bingham School
(2) Chatwood
(3) Moorefields
(4) Rigsbee's Rock House
Belk stated that tonight the Commission will consider four reports that aze being prepared for the
purpose of review by the State Historic Preservation Office. For local designations the State
requires certain standazds that each report has to meet. However, if the site is already listed on
the National Register the reporting requirements aze minimal. The reports distributed to the
Commission this evening show what Belk will be sending to the State Historic Preservation
Office. There is a cover letter with a brief memorandum on each site that is being considered.
Also included in this packet will be the National Register nomination and an excerpt from the tax
parcel maps showing the location of the site. The State is concerned about local designations of
National Register property sites where such sites have been significantly altered. There aze only
a handful of National Register sites in Orange County and most of those still retain their historic
and azchitectural integrity. There aze some that have been significantly, altered, but none of those
are under consideration this evening.
Belk stated that the process that is followed is laid out in the County's ordinance to create the
Historic Preservation Commission. The preparation of this report is the first step. Approval was
obtained from the owners of these sites to pursue designation. Letters were then mailed to all of
these property owners along with letters to every adjoining property owner and property owners
within 500 feet of the site. The letter stated that the Historic Preservation Commission would be
considering the designation of the site and also provided a map showing the location and
information of what local designation is about. Belk received a number of phone calls from
interested citizens and explained to them that this ordinance will have no affect on their property,
but will affect the property of the azea that is being designated. Belk explained that the owners
of the designated properties will receive a tax benefit as a result of this designation, but there will
also be requirements. Any changes that the owners of these properties make will have to be
reviewed and approved by the Historic Preservation Commission before they can proceed. Belk
explained that any adjacent property owner that wants to make changes to their property only has
to meet the regulations that are currently in place with the Building Inspections Department, etc.
There may be questions that come up for commercial developments that might be adjacent to
these azeas. Landscape buffers are already required but the Historic Preservation Commission
would want to review them to insure that these buffers take care of screening obtrusive sites or
activities from the historic site. No additional burden on adjoining property owners would be
required. Historic designations, on the local level, have been shown to be very positive to the
neighborhood.
Bells stated that the action taking place tonight will be that the Historic Preservation Commission
will decide if the reports should be reviewed by the State Historic Preservation Office. The State
has thirty days to comment on these proposed designations. If they do not respond within the
2
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thirty days, it is assumed that they are in agreement and the Historic Preservation Commission
may proceed with the designations. The next step after this thirty day period is that a draft
ordinance will be prepared and at their next meeting the Historic Preservation Commission will
vote to send these designations forward to be considered at a public hearing, which will occur in
late May.
Belk stated that after the public hearing, the Historic Preservation Commission will vote to
recommend that this ordinance be adopted. Then the Boazd of Commissioners will vote to adopt
the ordinance. At that point, which will be some time in 3une, this will become effective and the
notification will be made to the Register of Deeds Office, the Tax Collectors' Office and the
Planning Department to notify the government and the public that these sites are now landmazks
and enjoy all of the privileges and responsibilities of that designation.
Dickinson asked how large an area is each site? Are the houses and just the surrounding house
sites being designated, or the whole properties?
Belk replied that it will vary for each designation. For example, the Bingham School area that
would be designated would be all of the house, buildings around it and the grounds. In the case
of Bingham School, they are already under restrictive covenants with the Preservation
Foundation so the Historic Preservation Commission will incorporate that into its azea. For
Chatwood, the same situation applies. They aze also under covenants with Preservation of North
Cazolina. Moorefields is under covenants and aze also in the Trust. The boundaries of the
Rigsbee's Rock House will be the house and the lot. So this one does affect the house and the
grounds. In the future when looking at historic farmsteads, some different situations will be
encountered and they will be drafted a little differently.
Allison stated that the first site for Landmark Designations tonight is Bingham School. He then
asked for comments from the owner and Commission members.
Belk stated that he has spoken with the owner. The National Register restrictions still apply.
The only change that has been made is the addition of the one story brick guest house. Belk has
indicated on the report that this addition does not affect the integrity of the site. This site is
under deed restrictions with the Preservation Foundation and was the very first property that was
sold under that program. This site certainly has retained its integrity and meets the Historic
Preservation Commission's goals for local landmarks.
Allison stated that the next site is Chatwood.
Ms. Susan Lueck, the owner of Chatwood, addressed the Commission stating that she is
currently restoring the gardens, hoping to share them about a year from now.
Belk stated that one of the things that Ms. Lueck and he spoke about was how these properties
will be recognized in the future once they are designated. Sometimes in an urban setting a
simple bronze plaque in front of the house will suffice, but Belk thinks that in our rural setting,
we should think about something along the lines of a standing sign on the right-of--way that
3
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would recognize these sites. He will look into some of the different options that are available
and at the proper time, request funding to purchase these signs. Or come up with guidelines and
if owners wish to purchase these signs, they may do so. There should be some consistency of the
appearance of these signs and should fit in with the sites.
Allison suggested that these sites could be noted in a central place, a listing somewhere that lists
all of the sites. Not specifically where they are.
Dickinson agreed. Some people don't actually want their house pointed out with a sign. There
will be properties such as archeological sites that the Historic Preservation Commission knows
where they aze and they are in the files, but should not be publicized so people won't get out
there and hunt relics with their metal detectors. So how do these structures get recognition
without violating the homeowners' privacy?
Allison stated that as the program develops they will look into different options. The Historic
Preservation Commission will find out what systems are available. Belk will reseazch how
others identify their rural sites.
Allison stated that the next site is Moorefields and asked for comments.
Belk stated that there has been a situation where a major subdivision was proposed at the corner
of Moorefields Road; where the entrance to the estate is. Because of the County's new
subdivision requirements to notify adjoining property owners, the applicant for the subdivision
and the site manager for Moorefields were able to meet at the very eazly stages of that
development. At the Concept Plan stage with the Open Space that the subdivision would be
required to have, they were able to place some increased buffer azea at the corner to help protect
the view from Moorefields for people driving out of the estate. So this is a situation of how the
review process would come into play for these sites and it worked very well in this situation.
Belk will look into exempt lots of 10+ acres. These do not have to go through the subdivision
process, but buffers can be looked at when a building permit application is being processed;
although permits are not required for roads cut through farmland or for timbering.
Dickinson noted, for the file, several changes that have been made to Chatwood; (1) a staircase
has been added for access from the second to the third floor and (2) general bathroom and
kitchen renovations.
Belk stated that the Rigsbee's Rock House is the one site where no exterior changes have been
made in the ten years since the nomination was prepazed, however Mr. Singleton has very
cazefully begun to restore the stone wall that is on three sides of the property.
Allison asked for a motion to send these Landmark Designation Reports to the State Historic
Preservation Office for consideration.
4
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MOTION: Dickinson moved in the affirmative. Seconded by Satterfield.
VOTE: Unanimous.
AGENDA ITEM #6: ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION
a. Dr. Arch Jordan House National Register Nomination
Belk stated that the nomination is finished and has approval by the State so it will now go to
public heazing next month. The Historic Preservation Commission will determine if this house
meets the criteria for National Register Nomination. Belk would like to put this property on the
Historic Preservation Commission's agenda the very next meeting after if it listed and get the
local designation.
b. Landmark Designation Priority List:
(1) Smith-Cote House
(2) Pittard Place
(3) Benjamin Duke House
Belk reported that letters to the owners of these properties have gone out, but no responses have
been received yet. He will make contact again in the next few weeks to try to gain the
participation of these owners as the Historic Preservation Commission moves forwazd in doing
their request for proposals and hiring a consultant to do a study.
Belk clarified that for the properties that are on the National Register Study List, Orange County
is funding a National Register nomination. At some point, the Historic Preservation Commission
may want to designate properties locally that may not meet the National Register criteria, but are
of such local importance that the Historic Preservation Commission would want to list and
protect them. In that case, a local report would be funded. At present though, all of the priorities
are on the National Register Study List.
c. Minor Subdivision Application: Impact on Archeological Resources
Belk stated that they received a major subdivision application and the site is in the area where an
archeological site is located. They contacted the State Office who sent information on the site to
Belk. This information is being given to the owner with an encouragement that if anything is
encountered, to please let the State Office know and they would happy to come out and look at it.
But there are no restrictions on the landowner.
Belk reported that there is a possibility that they will be working on a~project with the UNC-CH
Research Laboratories for Anthropology in getting the topographic sites digitized into our GIS
system to provide a map of the sites. Belk will provide more information on this at the next
Historic Preservation Commission meeting.
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James B. Hunt Jr., Governor
Betty Ray McCain, Secretary
March 27, 1997
Donald R. Belk, AICP
Preservation Planner
Orange County Planning Department
306F Revere Road
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Re.
North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources
Division of Archives and History
kffrey J. Crow, Director
Landmark designation reports for properties in Orange
County -
Hingham School, NE corner of NC 54 and SR 1007
Chatwood, S side of SR 1328 (Faucett Mill Road) on
E side of Eno River
Moorefielda, SR 1135, .1 mile from junction with
SR 1134
Rigsbee's Rock House, NW corner of intersection of
Lawrence Road and Highway 70 West Bypass, E
of Hillsborough
Dear Don:
Thank you for the reports for landmark designation of the
referenced properties. We have reviewed the information in the
reports and offer the following comments in accordance with
N.C.G.S. 160A-400.6.
All four properties are individually listed in the National
Register of Historic Places; and the National Register
nominations, which document the significance and integrity of
each property, serve as the designation reports.
We concur that the changes that have occurred since the
nominations were prepared have not been major and that each
property substantially retains integrity (intactness). All four
properties are excellent candidates for landmark designation and
are most worthy of the recognition and protection designation
will bring.
Two of the nominations are more that twenty years old, and while
they form good bases for designation reports, they do not contain
adequate information to constitute full, strong reports. Many
older nominations are sketchy in this respect and must be
supplemented for local designation purposes. Even the more
109 East Jones Street • Raleigh, North Carolina 27601-2807 R~rQ
Ode
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Mr. Belk
March 27, 1998
Page 2
recent nominations usually need some updating and expanding. We
have the following suggestions:
All four reports:
It is very important to describe and justify the boundary of
a proposed landmark. Each report needs to be strengthened
in this regard. To each report, add a property map with the
exact boundary of the proposed landmark clearly marked.
Cite the tax map, block, and lot numbers. Add a statement
of the exact acreage. If the boundary is different from the
National Register nomination, explain and justify the
difference.
Many numbered highways and roads have been given proper
names since early National Register nominations were
written. Please give the property's current address in
addition to that given on the nomination.
Give the name and mailing address of the current owner.
Chatwood•
The historical name of this property is Fawcett Mill and
House, and it is actually listed in the National Register as
a district because of the variety of the resources and the
fact that the mill tract and the house tract comprised two
separate parcels, each having a different owner, at the time
of the nomination in 1988. It is unclear to us whether both
tracts are intended to be included in the proposed landmark.
If they are still under different ownership, they should be
designated as two separate landmarks. If the two tracts
have now been consolidated under one owner, a single
landmark is appropriate. If only the house tract, and not
the mill tract, is proposed for designation, this should be
stated in the cover memo.. Whatever the case, the memo
should address and clarify the matter.
Although the National Register nomination does not include
archaeological resources, they may very well be present.
The mill and surroundings would be of greater concern, but
we are not sure this area is included in the proposed
designation. In any case, mention should be made of the
potential for archaeological resources.
State the current use.
Include current photographs of all the buildings within the
proposed landmark boundaries.
y
Mr . Belk U 5 ~
March 27, 1998
Page 3
Moorefields
The landscape and setting should be described. A fuller
description of the changes should be given, such as the
addition of the fixed canopy extending from the rear
enclosed porch.
Add a few sentences about any changes in use and ownership
since the 1972 nomination was written. Clarify the current
use.
Rigsbee's Rock House
State the current use.
Bingham School
The addendum should be expanded to describe the changes that
have been made to the ell porch and the addition of the
small greenhouse-like structure.
The nomination mentions "several other outbuildings." These
should be described and their locations specified. The
setting and landscape features should also be more fully
described. A site sketch map, showing the footprint of the
house and all the outbuildings would be helpful.
Summarize any changes of ownership or use since the 1977
nomination was written and before the current use as a bed-
and-breakfast.
For a good example of the elements that should be included in a
local designation report, I am enclosing a copy of a designation
report from Mecklenburg County.
I would appreciate your sending me copies of any material added
to the reports so that our files will be complete.
Thank you for giving us the opportunity to comment. Our comments
are advisory only. Once the preservation commission and the
local governing board have considered our comments and have held
a public hearing, jointly or separately, the local governing
o
Mr. Belk
March 27, 1998
Page 4
~..
board may proceed with the designation decision. Should you have
any questions, please feel free to contact me at 919-733-6545.
Sincerely,
S~--v~
Melinda Coleman
Preservation Commission Services Coordinator
State Historic Preservation Office
enclosure
cc: Norma White, Chairman, Wake County Historic Preservation
Commission
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'..,,~ .~1 J2 ;
J`~ ~~-'
North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources
James B. Hunt Jr., Governor Division of Archives and History
Betty Ray McCain, Secretary kffrey J. Crow, Director
R8OtT83T 8OR DSSIGNATION CONBIRDatATION
To: Orange County Historic Preservation Commission
From: Melinda Coleman, Preservation Commission Services Coordinator
Date: March 27, 1998
When the local governing board has concluded its action on the designation
ordinances for the Bingham School, Chat~+ood, D[oorefields, and Rigsbee's Rock House,
please inform me via either:
1. the form below, or
2. call me at 919/733-6545 with the information requested below.
Also, please let me know of any provisions in the ordinances that are different from
those specified in the reports.
Thank you for your cooperation.
To: Melinda Coleman, Preservation Commission Services Coordinator
From: Orange County Historic Preservation Commission
Date:
The landmark designation ordinances for the Bingham School, Chatnood, 1[oorefielda,
and Rigsbee'e Rock House, have been adopted by the local governing board.
Yes No Date
Ordinance provisions different from designation reports:
109 East Jones Street • Raleigh, North Carolina 27601-2807
Excerpt from minutes of HPC Meeting, 3-25-98
~,
Allison called for a motion.
~i;~ ~
ivIOTION: Dickinson moved that the Historic Preservation Commission recommend
forwarding the nomination for the Dr. Arch Jordan House to the Board of
Commissioners' Chair and to the State National Register Committee for
acceptance into the National Register under Criteria A and C. Seconded
by Satterfield.
VOTE: Unanimous.
AGENDA ITEM #5: ITEMS FOR DECISION
a. Recommendation for Public Hearing on Landmark Designation Proposals: (1)
Bingham School; (2) Chatwood; (3) Moorefields; (4) Rigsbee's Rock House
Allison stated that comments from the State Historic Preservation Office aze not available
tonight, but the Commission will proceed with its recommendation assuming that no negative
comments will be received. This is the second of three meeting with the last meeting scheduled
as a public hearing. Allison then asked for comments/recommendations from the Commission
members.
Belk reminded the Commission members that this public hearing will be held on May 26, 1998,
being a joint public hearing with the Historic Preservation Commission and the Board of
Commissioners. The Historic Preservation Commission's May meeting is scheduled for
Wednesday, May 28, 1998, so it will be a Monday night Board of Commissioners meeting and a
Wednesday night Historic Preservation Commission meeting. Belk asked the Commission
member to please note this on their calendars.
MOTION: Dickinson moved that the Historic Preservation Commission recommend for
public hearing landmark designation proposals for the Bingham School,
Chatwood, Moorefields and Rigsbee's Rock House. Seconded by Satterfield.
VOTE: Unanimous.
b. Consideration of Comments from State Historic Preservation Office
AGENDA ITEM #6: ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION
a. Landmark Designation Priority List:
1. Smith-Cole House
2. Pittard Place
3. Benjamin Duke House
7
<< .
DRAFT os.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
DESIGNATING THE PROPERTY KNOWN AS
THE BINGHAM SCHOOL
IN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
AS A HISTORIC LANDMARK
Whereas, all of the prerequisites to the adoption of this ordinance prescribed in Part 3C,
Article 19, Chapter 160A (Historic Districts and Landmazks) of the General Statutes of North
Cazolina and an Ordinance creating the Historic Preservation Commission of Orange County (the
"Historic Preservation Ordinance") have been met; and
Whereas, the Orange County Boazd of Commissioners has taken into full consideration
all statements and information in the survey and research report prepazed by the Orange County
Historic Preservation Commission and presented to the Boazd of County Commissioners on the
6th day of May, 1998 on the question of designating the property known as The Bingham School
as a historic landmazk; and
Whereas, the property known as The Bingham School, located in the Bingham Township
in the County of Orange and more particularly described in Exhibit A attached hereto, is one of
the most intact examples of the Greek Revival Style in Orange County; and
Whereas, the property known as The Bingham School is composed of a complex of eazly
nineteenth century buildings and a Greek Revival structure built ca. 1845 for William J.
Bingham, an reknowned educator and patriazch of one of Orange County's most prominent
families during the 19~' century; and
Whereas, the Orange County Historic Preservation Commission has recognized the
historic, azchitectural and cultural significance of the property known as The Bingham School
and has recommended that the property be designated a "historic landmazk" as defined in Section
2.6 of the Historic Preservation Ordinance; and
Whereas, the Division of Archives and History of the North Carolina Department of
Cultural Resources has reviewed and commented on the findings of the Orange County Historic
Preservation Commission.
Now, therefore, be it obtained by the Board of County Commissioners of Orange County,
North Cazolina that:
Section 1. The property known as The Bingham School, located at the Oaks Crossroads
in the Bingham Township, Orange County, North Cazolina jurisdictional azea, and more
particulazly described in Exhibit A, is hereby designated a historic landmark pursuant to Part 3C,
Article 19, Chapter 160A of the General Statutes of North Carolina and the Orange County
Historic Preservation Ordinance.
~~,1
.1 ~ - ~ 1~
Section 2. That the owner(s) and occupant(s) of the property known as The Bingham
School be given notice of this ordinance as required by applicable law, and that copies of this
ordinance be filed and indexed in the office of the County Clerk, Orange County Register of
Deeds, Orange County Tax Supervisor and Orange County Planning and Inspections Department
as required by the applicable law.
Section 3. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed
to the extent of such conflict.
Section 4. Any part of this ordinance determined by a court of competent jurisdiction to
be in violation of any law or constitutional provision shall be deemed severable and shall not
affect the validity of the remainder.
Section 5. That this ordinance shall become effective immediately upon its adoption.
Upon motion of Commissioner ,seconded by Commissioner ,
the foregoing ordinance was adopted this the day of , 1998.
I, Beverly A. Blythe, Clerk to the Boazd of Commissioners for the County. of Orange,
North Cazolina, DO HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing is a true copy of so much of the
proceedings of said Boazd at a meeting held on , 1998 as relates in any way to the
adoption of the foregoing and that said proceedings are recorded in Minute Book No. of
the minutes of the said Boazd.
WITNESS my hand and the seal of said County, this day of , 1998.
Clerk to the Boazd of Commissioners
ti ~ ~ .,.
EXHIBIT A
The Bingham School is located in the Bingham Township at the Oaks Crossroads, approximately
400 feet northeast of the intersection of NC Highway 54 and Mebane Oaks Road (SR 1007).
Bingham School is referenced in Orange County Land Records as Parcel Identification Number
(PIN) 9820-42-2359 and as Tax Map 6.17..19. The property is particularly described in Deed
Book 276, Page 388 in the Orange County Register of Deeds Office.
~~J
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DRAFT „~;
AN ORDINANCE OF THE ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
DESIGNATING THE PROPERTY KNOWN AS
CHATWOOD
IN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
AS A HISTORIC LANDMARK
Whereas, all of the prerequisites to the adoption of this ordinance prescribed in Part 3C,
Article 19, Chapter 160A (Historic Districts and Landmarks) of the General Statutes of North
Cazolina and an Ordinance creating the Historic Preservation Commission of Orange County (the
"Historic Preservation Ordinance") have been met; and
Whereas, the Orange County Boazd of Commissioners has taken into full consideration
all statements and information in the survey and reseazch report prepared by the Orange County
Historic Preservation Commission and presented to the Board of County Commissioners on the
6th day of May, 1998, on the question of designating the property known as Chatwood as a
historic landmazk; and
Whereas, the property known as Chatwood, located in the Cheeks Township in the
County of Orange and more particulazly described in Exhibit A attached hereto, is one of the best
preserved and most intact examples of the Federal Style in North Cazolina; and
Whereas, the property known as Chatwood and built ca. 1808, was an important location
of eazly industry and commerce in Orange County as part of an inn and gristmill complex near a
ford of the Eno River; and
Whereas, the Orange County Historic Preservation Commission has recognized the
historic, azchitectural and cultural significance of the property known as Chatwood and has
recommended that the property be designated a "historic landmark" as defined in Section 2.6 of
the Historic Preservation Ordinance; and
Whereas, the Division of Archives and History of the North Cazolina Department of
Cultural Resources has reviewed and commented on the findings of the Orange County Historic
Preservation Commission.
Now, therefore, be it obtained by the Boazd of County Commissioners of Orange County,
North Cazolina that:
Section 1. The property known as Chatwood, located in the Cheeks Township, Orange
County, North Cazolina jurisdictional azea, and more particulazly described in Exhibit A, is
hereby designated a historic landmazk pursuant to Part 3C, Article 19, Chapter 160A of the
General Statutes of North Cazolina and the Orange County Historic Preservation Ordinance.
Section 2. That the owner(s) and occupant(s) of the property known as Chatwood be
given notice of this ordinance as required by applicable law, and that copies of this ordinance be
os~
filed and indexed in the office of the County Clerk, Orange County Register of Deeds, Orange
County Tax Supervisor and Orange County Planning and Inspections Department as required by
the applicable law.
Section 3. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed
to the extent of such conflict.
Section 4. Any part of this ordinance determined by a court of competent jurisdiction to
be in violation of any law or constitutional provision shall be deemed severable and shall not
affect the validity of the remainder.
Section 5. That this ordinance shall become effective immediately upon its adoption.
Upon motion of Commissioner ,seconded by Commissioner ,
the foregoing ordinance was adopted this the day of , 1998.
I, Beverly A. Blythe, Clerk to the Board of Commissioners for the County of Orange,
North Cazolina, DO HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing is a true copy of so much of the
proceedings of said Boazd at a meeting held on , 1998 as relates in any way to the
adoption of the foregoing and that said proceedings are recorded in Minute Book No. of
the minutes of the said Boazd.
WITNESS my hand and the seal of said County, this day of , 1998.
.,s .~,
Clerk to the Boazd of Commissioners
4 + ~, ~ y.
i
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EXHIBIT A
Chatwood is located in the Cheeks Township on the south side of Faucette Mill Road (SR 1328),
approximately 500 feet west of the junction of SR 1328 and Frank Perry Road (SR 1379).
Chatwood is referenced in Orange County Land Records as Pazcel Identification Number (PIN)
9855-85-6700 and as Tax Map 3.15..8B. The property is particularly described in Deed Book
1568, Page 480 in the Orange County Register of Deeds Office.
DRAFT 101
AN ORDINANCE OF THE ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
DESIGNATING THE PROPERTY KNOWN AS THE
MOOREFIELDS
IN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
AS A HISTORIC LANDMARK
Whereas, all of the prerequisites to the adoption of this ordinance prescribed in Part 3C,
Article 19, Chapter 160A (Historic Districts and Landmazks) of the General Statutes of North
Cazolina and an Ordinance creating the Historic Preservation Commission of Orange County (the
"Historic Preservation Ordinance") have been met; and
Whereas, the Orange County Boazd of Commissioners has taken into full consideration
all statements and information in the survey and reseazch report prepazed by the Orange County
Historic Preservation Commission and presented to the Boazd of County Commissioners on the
6th day of May, 1998, on the question of designating the property known as Moorefields as a
historic landmazk; and
Whereas, the property known as Moorefields, located in the Cheeks Township in the
County of Orange and more particulazly described in Exhibit A attached hereto, is one of the
earliest appeazances of the Federal Style in North Cazolina; and
Whereas, the property known as Moorefields and built ca. 1785 by Alfred Moore, a hero
of the American Revolution and one of North Cazolina's foremost jurists; and
Whereas, the Orange County Historic Preservation Cormission has recognized the
historic, architectural and cultural significance of the property known as Moorefields and has
recommended that the property be designated a "historic landmark" as defined in Section 2.6 of
the Historic Preservation Ordinance; and
Whereas, the Division of Archives and History of the North Carolina Department of
Cultural Resources has reviewed and commented on the findings of the Orange County Historic
Preservation Commission.
Now, therefore, be it obtained by the Board of County Commissioners of Orange County,
North Cazolina that:
Section 1. The property known as Moorefields, located at in the Cheeks Township,
Orange County, North Carolina jurisdictional azea, more particulazly described in Exhibit A, is
hereby designated a historic landmark pursuant to Part 3C, Article 19, Chapter 160A of the
General Statutes of North Carolina and the Orange County Historic Preservation Ordinance.
Section 2. That the owner(s) and occupant(s) of the property known as Moorefields be
given notice of this ordinance as required by applicable law, and that copies of this ordinance be
filed and indexed in the office of the County Clerk, Orange County Register of Deeds, Orange
1 U ~~
County Tax Supervisor and Orange County Planning and Inspections Department as required by
the applicable law.
Section 3. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed
to the extent of such conflict.
Section 4. Any part of this ordinance determined by a court of competent jurisdiction to
be in violation of any law or constitutional provision shall be deemed severable and shall not
affect the validity of the remainder.
Section 5. That this ordinance shall become effective immediately upon its adoption.
Upon motion of Commissioner ,seconded by Commissioner ,
the foregoing ordinance was adopted this the day of , 1998.
I, Beverly A. Blythe, Clerk to the Boazd of Commissioners for the County of Orange,
North Cazolina, DO HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing is a true copy of so much of the
proceedings of said Boazd at a meeting held on , 1998 as relates in any way to the
adoption of the foregoing and that said proceedings aze recorded in Minute Book No. of
the minutes of the said Boazd.
WITNESS my hand and the seal of said County, this day of , 1998.
`~r =~ ' ~
Clerk to the Boazd of Commissioners
., ~ ,. .,~
1O3
EXHIBIT A
Moorefields is located in the Cheeks Township, at the end of an unpaved lane 0.4 miles from
Moorefields Road (SR 1135). The entrance to the lane is approximately 0.4 miles west from the
northernmost junction of Dimmocks Mill Road (SR 1134) and Moorefields Road. Moorefields
is referenced in Orange County Land Records as Parcel Identification Number (PIN) 9854-70-
6020 and as Tax Map 3.51..3.
~a` _~• -r
DRAFT ias
AN ORDINANCE OF THE ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
DESIGNATING THE PROPERTY KNOWN AS
RIGSBEE'S ROCK HOUSE
IN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
AS A HISTORIC LANDMARK
Whereas, all of the prerequisites to the adoption of this ordinance prescribed in Part 3C,
Article 19, Chapter 160A (Historic Districts and Landmarks) of the General Statutes of North
Cazolina and an Ordinance creating the Historic Preservation Commission of Orange County (the
"Historic Preservation Ordinance") have been met; and
Whereas, the Orange County Board of Commissioners has taken into full consideration
all statements and information in the survey and reseazch report prepazed by the Orange County
Historic Preservation Commission and presented to the Boazd of County Commissioners on the
6th day of May, 1998, on the question of designating the property known as Rigsbee's Rock
House as a historic landmazk; and
Whereas, the property known as Rigsbee's Rock House, located in the Eno Township in
the County of Orange and more particulazly described in Exhibit A attached hereto, is one of the
best preserved and most intact examples of the Tudor Revival Style in Orange County; and
Whereas, the property known as Rigsbee's Rock House -and built ca. 1929, is a colorful
part of Orange County folklore, with its legends linking it to Prohibition-era bootlegging;
Whereas, the Orange County Historic Preservation Commission has recognized the
historic, azchitectural and cultural significance of the property known as Rigsbee's Rock House
and has recommended that the property be designated a "historic landmazk" as defined in Section
2.6 of the Historic Preservation Ordinance; and
Whereas, the Division of Archives and History of the North Cazolina Department of
Cultural Resources has reviewed and commented on the findings of the Orange County Historic
Preservation Commission.
Now, therefore, be it obtained by the Boazd of County Commissioners of Orange County,
North Cazolina that:
Section 1. The property known as Rigsbee's Rock House, located in the Cheeks
Township, Orange County, North Cazolina jurisdictional azea, more particulazly described in
Exhibit A, is hereby designated a historic landmazk pursuant to Part 3C, Article 19, Chapter
160A of the General Statutes of North Carolina and the Orange County Historic Preservation
Ordinance.
Section 2. That the owner(s) and occupant(s) of the property known as Rigsbee's Rock
House be given notice of this ordinance as required by applicable law, and that copies of this
lOe
ordinance be filed and indexed in the office of the County Clerk, Orange County Register of
Deeds, Orange County Tax Supervisor and Orange County Planning and Inspections Department
as required by the applicable law.
Section 3. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed
to the extent of such conflict.
Section 4. Any part of this ordinance determined by a court of competent jurisdiction to
be in violation of any law or constitutional provision shall be deemed severable and shall not
affect the validity of the remainder.
Section 5. That this ordinance shall become effective immediately upon its adoption.
Upon motion of Commissioner ,seconded by Commissioner
the foregoing ordinance was adopted this the day of , 1998.
I, Beverly A. Blythe, Clerk to the Boazd of Commissioners for the County of Orange,
North Carolina, DO HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing is a true copy of so much of the
proceedings of said Board at a meeting held on , 1998 as relates in any way to the
adoption of the foregoing and that said proceedings aze recorded in Minute Book No. of
the minutes of the said Boazd.
WITNESS my hand and the seal of said County, this day of , 1998.
~" "~' ' 6s
Clerk to the Boazd of Commissioners
"~! ` ~ ~ r
4
1u~7
EXHIBIT A
Rigsbee's Rock House is located in the Eno Township at the southwest corner of the intersection
of Lawrence Road (SR 1709) and US Highway 70 Business, east of Hillsborough. Rigsbee's
Rock House is referenced in Orange County Land Records as Parcel Indentification Number
(PIN) 9884-00-2560 and as Tax Map 5.3.B.9. It is particulazly described in Deed Book 579,
Page 129 in the Orange County Register of Deeds Office.