Episode 9: Saving the Stories: The Work Behind Historic Preservation in Catawba County

In this episode, Susan Holbrook of the Historical Association of Catawba County sits down with Leslie Keller, Director of the Hickory Landmarks Society, for a conversation about what it really takes to preserve the places that tell our community’s story. Leslie shares the history of Hickory Landmarks, the organization’s historic properties, and the often unseen work behind preservation, from funding and routine maintenance to finding skilled craftspeople and uncovering surprises hidden inside buildings that are more than a century old. They also discuss the importance of collaboration, engaging the next generation of preservationists, adapting historic buildings for modern use, and the challenges continued development may bring to Catawba County. It’s a look beyond the freshly painted porches and restored homes at the research, persistence, community support, and passion required to keep local history standing for generations to come. Thank you for supporting the Historical Association of Catawba County's efforts to protect our shared heritage. Our mission is the preservation and interpretation of the stories, objects and places that document the rich heritage of Catawba County and its role in the development of the Western Piedmont of North Carolina. As an independent 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, the Association is funded primarily by individual donors. National foundations, periodic grant awards, and local municipalities also contribute to the daily financial operations of the Association. For over 80 years, the Historical Association of Catawba County has preserved the objects, stories, and places that matter most to Catawbans. We invite you to become a member of the HACC. #CatawbaCountyHistory #HistoricPreservation #HickoryNC #HickoryLandmarks #LocalHistory