Help Bynum Get Historic Designation!

Preserving Bynum's Rich Heritage: Help Secure Historic Designation!

Our mission is to get Bynum on the National Historic Register in order to preserve the unique history and cultural significance of this 19th century mill village. Preserving Bynum is not just about affirming its distinctive architecture and perpetuating the memories, stories, and contributions of its inhabitants past and present; it will also help buffer Bynum from the unprecedented development in Chatham County - one of North Carolina’s fastest growing counties. Your contributions to Preserve Historic Bynum will help ensure that we can protect and perpetuate the rich historic value of Bynum for all of our children, grandchildren and the generations of North Carolinians to come. Please watch our video below:

Why is Bynum worth Preserving?

Unprecedented development pressures in North Carolina are heightening the importance to preserve the rich history of the state’s rural communities. Nowhere is that preservation more critical than in rapidly growing Chatham County where we have founded “Preserve Historic Bynum,” our effort to secure a National Historic Register designation for Bynum.

In 1872, Luke and Carney Bynum established one of the state’s first textile mills, harnessing the power of the Haw River. They built a cluster of mill houses for workers which expanded to 43 by the 1920s when electricity was introduced. Bynum was a cultural center with several stores, a movie theater and other amenities. Today all of the 43 mill houses and other historic structures stand. Although the mill closed in the 1970s, the community continued to thrive and to make history right up to the present day. Bynum remains a vibrant community that welcomes visitors from across the region to enjoy the Bynum Front Porch music series, Front Porch Story Telling, hiking, paddle and tubing along the Haw River, attend events like the Halloween Pumpkin display on the historic bridge and enjoy the ambiance of the mill village.

Yes, Bynum is a unique and intact example of the nineteenth century southern mill village that was an important characteristic of the Piedmont landscape. However, that history needs commitment and protection to stay alive. Securing a National Historic Register designation for Bynum will do just that.

Why do we need to raise funds to do this?

Although our initiative is powered by volunteers and we have successfully passed our study list application to the National Registry Advisory Committee, we now need to raise substantial funds to hire a professional consultant to prepare the National Register of Historic Places Nomination, estimated at $30,000. That work includes extensive surveying of 72+ buildings, archival research, visual documentation, updating the existing database, preparing the formal nomination and more. Your contributions to Preserve Historic Bynum to raise these necessary funds will help ensure that we can preserve the rich historic value of Bynum for our children, grandchildren and generations of North Carolinians to come.

• Historical Legacy:

Bynum played a crucial role in the development of North Carolina's textile industry in the late 19th century. As one of the earliest mill villages in the region, Bynum stands as a living testament to the state's industrial growth and the hard work of its mill workers.

• Architectural Treasure:

Bynum boasts a collection of well-preserved mill houses and community structures that embody the architectural style of the past. Historic designation will ensure these structures are protected from harm and maintain their original character.

• Cultural Identity:

Bynum's strong sense of community and traditions have shaped a unique cultural identity that deserves recognition and celebration. Preserving Bynum means preserving the stories and memories of generations who lived and thrived in this mill village.

• Educational Value:

Bynum offers valuable educational opportunities for students, researchers, and visitors interested in learning about the lives of mill workers, the textile industry, and the socio-economic conditions of the time.

• Economic Impact:

A Historic Designation can attract heritage tourism, benefiting local businesses and creating job opportunities for residents. By preserving Bynum, we can support the economic vitality of the village and Chatham County.

How You Can Help!

• Your Generous Donation:

By contributing to our campaign, you become a crucial part of preserving Bynum's history and cultural heritage. Every dollar donated goes towards the costs associated with the Historic Designation process, including research, documentation, and filing fees.

• Spread the Word:

Sharing our campaign with your friends, family, and social media networks can significantly impact our fundraising efforts. Help us raise awareness about the importance of preserving Bynum and encouraging others to support this worthy cause.

• Volunteer and Engage:

If you have expertise in historical preservation, architectural conservation, or community engagement, we would love to have you join our team. Your involvement can make a real difference in securing Bynum's Historic Designation.

• Become a Champion: Champion our cause by becoming an advocate for Bynum's preservation. Share your personal connection to the village or the significance of preserving historical sites. Your passion can inspire others to contribute and support our mission.

Preserving Bynum for the Future!

By securing National Historic Register designation for Bynum, we are ensuring that this remarkable mill village remains a beacon of North Carolina's industrial history and cultural heritage. Our collective efforts today will leave a lasting impact on the generations to come, as they explore and appreciate the stories of those who built and nurtured this thriving community.

Together, let's rally behind the preservation of Bynum, ensuring that it remains a cherished piece of North Carolina's history.