Why Are We Looking at That? Mid-Century and Modern Architecture in South Carolina

From introduction: "Resources that meet the first eligibility criteria of “Age” and are now approximately 50 years old may be categorized as “Mid-Century” buildings or resources. Perhaps they fall into the designation of “Modern Architecture,” or are part of the “Modern Movement.” They may also be referred to as elements of our “recent past.” If they meet the requirements of integrity and significance, the resources may warrant listing in the National Register. Although many of us have grown up with these buildings and other cultural resources, they may now also deserve our consideration as historic resources. The mid-twentieth century was a period of tremendous growth and technological development. Much of the growth and many of the technological advancements were directly and indirectly related to World War II. Mid-Century technological advances had a strong impact on the architecture of the period... Ironically, many Mid-Century and post World War II projects involved demolition of historically significant resources. The fight against urban blight and the popularity of urban renewal projects in the 1950s and 1960s often conflicted with historic preservation interests. Now, those Mid-Century urban renewal projects and post-war resources are historically significant. Many are now facing demolition to make way for the current latest and greatest act of progress. Some might think that is poetic justice. Some resources have taken on significance for their association with social issues and changes in the United States and in South Carolina. Acknowledging the presence of these social issues may be unpleasant, but they are part of our history and heritage and associated resources should be preserved." Funding was provided in part by a Historic Preservation Fund grant administered by the South Carolina State Historic Preservation Office and the State, Tribal, and Local Plans and Grants Division, National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior.

Why Are We Looking at That? Mid-Century and Modern Architecture in South Carolina

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