Governor Henry D. McMaster

Governor Henry D. McMaster has been selected to receive the 2026 South Carolina Historic Preservation Awards Elected Official Award in recognition of his longstanding commitment to preserving the state's historic, cultural, and natural heritage.

Serving as South Carolina's 117th governor since 2017, Governor McMaster has consistently championed the importance of protecting the places that define the state's identity. Throughout his administration, he has supported historic preservation, land conservation, and initiatives that safeguard South Carolina's architectural, cultural, and environmental resources. His leadership has helped advance preservation efforts while recognizing the organizations and individuals dedicated to protecting the state's historic places.

Governor McMaster has frequently emphasized that preserving South Carolina's history is essential to maintaining its character and quality of life. In his 2023 inaugural address, he called on South Carolinians to "preserve and protect our history and our environment," reinforcing his belief that stewardship of the state's historic places and landscapes is a responsibility shared across generations. He has also personally presented South Carolina Historic Preservation Awards and has been a strong advocate for programs that celebrate the state's heritage, including South Carolina's historical marker program, which highlights more than 1,700 significant people, places, and events across the state.

As the longest-serving governor in South Carolina history, Governor McMaster has demonstrated that historic preservation is an important part of the state's future as well as its past. His leadership and public advocacy have helped ensure that South Carolina's historic places, cultural landscapes, and rich heritage continue to be protected, appreciated, and passed on to future generations.