NPS - National Park Service

10/09/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/09/2024 13:10

Historic Preservation Center Revitalizes Canaveral National Seashore Landmark

News Release Date:
September 10, 2024

Contact:Laura Henning, 321-229-3766

OAK HILL, FL - Canaveral National Seashore is proud to unveil the remarkable transformation of the historic Seminole Rest Caretaker's House, a historic gem nestled within the park. This restoration , led by the National Park Service's Historic Preservation Training Center (HPTC), orchestrated a complete roof replacement in under five months, showcasing the team's agility and dedication to safeguarding our nation's treasures.

The Victorian-style wooden frame Caretaker's House, part of a historic district listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1997, stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the seashore. Beneath its walls, the grounds whisper tales of thousands of years of human presence, featuring pottery remnants from the St. John's I period (500 BC to 800 AD) and the earlier Orange period (2000-5000 BC).

The HPTC team meticulously replaced the deteriorated roof with historically accurate materials ensuring both aesthetic and structural integrity of the original design. This project serves as a shining example of HPTC's commitment to preserving the unique character of our nation's landmarks while also addressing the Park's critical deferred maintenance needs.

"The Historic Preservation Training Center's expertise was instrumental to this project," said Leo Da Silva, Chief of Project Management at Canaveral National Seashore. "Their careful work not only preserves the historical integrity of the Caretaker's House but also extends the life of this important cultural resource for future generations. The project was coordinated via the Maintenance Action Team (MAT) program, a model where teams of skilled tradespeople travel to parks to accomplish critical maintenance and preservation needs." 

The project had a broader impact beyond the immediate restoration. By tackling deferred maintenance, the park enhanced its ability to maintain visitor safety and improve the visitor experience. The project also provided valuable hands-on training for National Park Service employees, showcasing the positive outcomes for both the park and the local community.

Carmen Thomson, Park Superintendent of Canaveral National Seashore, praised the collaboration with HPTC "Working with the Historic Preservation Training Center was a seamless experience. They kept our team well-informed of their progress and any challenges that arose throughout the restoration. Their professionalism and transparency made this project not only a success but also a wonderful learning opportunity for all involved."

This project, funded through the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act, your fee dollars at work, underscores the park's commitment to leveraging available resources to protect and maintain its invaluable assets for the enjoyment of current and future generations.

About Canaveral National Seashore:

Canaveral National Seashore is a protected area on Florida's east coast, known for its pristine beaches, diverse ecosystems, and rich historical significance. The park preserves a unique blend of cultural and natural resources, offering visitors a glimpse into both the history and natural beauty of Florida.

For more information about Canaveral National Seashore and our preservation efforts, please visit our website at www.nps.gov/cana or follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CanaveralNationalSeashore.