Clemson University

Preservation South Carolina, the South Carolina Department of Archives and History and the Governor’s Office, are proud to recognize the Clemson University Anthropology-History Department with the 2026 Preservation Service Award for its outstanding leadership in transforming the historic Hopewell Carriage House into the Hopewell Carriage House Archaeology Field Lab—a model of preservation, education, and public engagement that is advancing the practice of historic preservation across South Carolina.

Located on the historic Hopewell Estate, the modest wood-framed carriage house had fallen into disrepair after decades of utilitarian use. Rather than allowing the structure to deteriorate further, the Anthropology-History Department recognized its potential as both a historic resource and an educational opportunity. Through a thoughtful preservation-driven rehabilitation, the building was carefully restored and adaptively reused as a field laboratory and teaching facility, preserving its historic character while integrating modern systems necessary for accessibility, safety, and functionality.

Today, the Hopewell Carriage House Archaeology Field Lab serves as a vibrant center for archaeological research, artifact conservation, and experiential learning. Embedded within Clemson University's academic curriculum, the facility provides students with invaluable hands-on experience in archaeological field methods, artifact processing, conservation techniques, and historic preservation practices. By connecting classroom instruction with real-world application, the department is preparing the next generation of preservation professionals and cultural resource stewards.

The impact of the project extends well beyond the university. Through workshops, public programs, and training opportunities, the Anthropology-History Department welcomes community members, avocational archaeologists, and preservation professionals to participate in preserving South Carolina's cultural heritage. Since opening, the laboratory has supported more than 100 students annually, hosted multiple educational workshops and public programs, and provided meaningful opportunities for community engagement, significantly expanding preservation education throughout the region.

The project also demonstrates exceptional leadership in the adaptive reuse of historic structures. The rehabilitation required carefully stabilizing an aging vernacular building while sensitively incorporating modern building systems and meeting current building codes without compromising the structure's historic integrity. The department's commitment to preservation principles ensured that every decision balanced authenticity with functionality, creating a facility that both protects the past and serves the needs of future generations.

The Hopewell Carriage House Archaeology Field Lab stands as a powerful example of how historic preservation can become an active, collaborative, and community-centered endeavor. By preserving a historic building and transforming it into a living laboratory for education, research, and public service, the Clemson University Anthropology-History Department has created a lasting resource that will continue to strengthen preservation practice across South Carolina for years to come. Their innovative approach exemplifies the spirit of the Preservation Service Award and demonstrates how thoughtful stewardship can inspire learning, collaboration, and a deeper appreciation for our shared cultural heritage.