Adrienne Copeland’s passion for historic architecture and preservation began long before she understood its full scope. Her fascination with the beauty of old buildings led her to purchase a historic home, where she faced the challenge of restoring it with minimal expert guidance. This challenge prompted her to delve into historic architecture and building methods, teaching herself the skills necessary for restoration. Her journey in historic preservation truly began when she moved to Rocky Mount in 2016 and enrolled in Edgecombe Community College’s Historic Preservation Trades Program. This program provided her with hands-on experience and deepened her knowledge.

In 2017, Copeland attended a local preservation meeting at Rocky Mount Mills, where she connected with like-minded individuals and was quickly voted onto the Board of Directors of a local preservation non-profit. Her involvement grew, and she now serves as President of Preservation Rocky Mount, Inc., where she has been a key figure for three and a half years.

Preservation Rocky Mount is dedicated to rescuing historic properties and promoting a culture of preservation through educational programs. The organization identifies at-risk properties, often through grassroots efforts, and leverages resources to restore these buildings. When preservation isn’t possible, they salvage architectural elements and sell them to ensure the historical character endures. Their educational programs share success stories and emphasize the importance of preserving Rocky Mount’s unique history.

Copeland highlights the profound impact of historic preservation on the community, viewing architecture as an art form that adds beauty and joy to daily life. She believes preserving historic architecture is crucial, not only for maintaining the city’s aesthetic but also for its economic benefits. Preserved buildings and neighborhoods attract people and investment, vital for the revitalization of Rocky Mount’s downtown and neighborhoods.

One of Copeland’s proudest achievements is the restoration of the Rosenbloom department store at 152-154 SW Main Street. Purchased in 2002, the 1905 building required extensive repairs, including a new roof and restoration of its historic interior. Preservation Rocky Mount undertook the project, stabilized the building, and sold it to Dr. Monique Brown, who established her medical practice there. This project exemplifies the organization’s mission to save historic buildings and contribute to the community’s economic revitalization.

Looking ahead, Preservation Rocky Mount is continuing its Historic House Tour program. The upcoming tour on August 15th will feature a colonial revival house at 1106 Sycamore Street, showcasing early 20th-century architectural styles. The tour offers a casual, drop-in format with a brief history talk and light refreshments, providing an opportunity for the community to appreciate local preservation efforts.

For those interested in featuring their historic homes or visiting the Architectural Salvage Store, Copeland encourages contacting Preservation Rocky Mount via email at info@preservationrockymount.org. More information about the organization, including donation and volunteer opportunities, can be found on their website, www.preservationrockymount.org. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram for updates on events and tours.

Adrienne Copeland’s dedication to preserving Rocky Mount’s historic architecture is about more than saving old buildings; it’s about maintaining the city’s heritage, fostering a sense of place, and driving economic growth. Through her work with Preservation Rocky Mount, she ensures that the city’s rich architectural history continues to inspire and enrich the community.

Preservation North Carolina Comes to Rocky Mount and Tarboro

October 16-18, Preservation North Carolina will be visiting Rocky Mount and Tarboro, two towns rich in architectural heritage and inspiring rehabilitation projects. Rocky Mount, a city divided between Nash and Edgecombe counties, boasts several notable preservation successes, including Rocky Mount Mills, the Imperial Centre, the Booker T. Theater, and the Romanesque-style 1903 passenger train station.

Nearby Tarboro, an older river town and the county seat of Edgecombe County, is celebrated for its colonial Town Common and its distinguished architectural landmarks, such as Calvary Episcopal Church and Churchyard, St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, the Matthewson House, Coolmore, and The Barracks. This event will bring over 300 people to the Twin Counties, and promises to showcase the unique historical and architectural significance of these two towns, furthering the mission of preservation and community revitalization.