The Sanford Historic Trust is preparing to once again bring Historic Downtown Sanford a “must-see” event, as the 32nd Annual Holiday Tour of Homes begins Saturday, December 4.
Under the watchful eyes and creative vision of the Sanford Historic Trust’s membership body and accomplished board of directors, this nonprofit organization has always found creative ways to engage the Sanford community – as well as visitors from near and far – while evaluating, protecting, and preserving the architectural heritage of the homes, buildings, and sites in Sanford through education and stewardship.
In addition, the Trust knows how to spread the holiday spirit and have a historically great time! Their annual tour – now in it’s 32nd year – has become one of the preeminent #Sanfording events, and to locals, the Annual Holiday Tour of Homes serves as the kick-off to the holiday season.
Starting Saturday, December 4, the tour will allow guests to step into the past and experience historic living in real life. This year’s tour directors Caroline van den Berg-Garcia, Robin Theisen, and Sarah Clore are excited to take the lead on this must-see event that features 10 homes along Elm Avenue and Myrtle Avenue in Sanford’s beautiful Historic District. On the tour this year are homes constructed between the 1880s and the early 20th century, many of which have never been featured on the Holiday Tour of Homes or haven’t been featured in quite some time. As attendees begin the self-guided walking tour down the brick-lined streets of Sanford, the sounds of Victorian carolers will again fill the air, and their palate will be enticed by hot cocoa, apple cider, and festive treats.
In her 4th year as chair for the Holiday Tour of Homes, van den Berg-Garcia notes the history of the trust and the creation of the tour in 1988, stating that “the (Trust’s) founding members were ‘urban pioneers’ who began renovating historic homes in downtown Sanford prior to the establishment of the residential historic district. In 1988, the first Holiday Tour of Homes was organized as an effort to promote the area and raise funds to save these homes. Rich in character and historical importance, many of them had sadly been abandoned or transformed into dilapidated rental units. For thirty-three years now, the Holiday Tour of Homes continues as an annual fundraiser that showcases the city’s beautiful, historic homes. As Sanford continues to grow and thrive, the lasting importance of this event remains. Our goal every year is to magnify the charm of Sanford and exemplify volunteerism, stewardship, and passion for the community.”
These continued efforts paid off when the city was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1989. Following that milestone, the Sanford Historic Trust worked with an architect and town planner to create the historic preservation codes that protect Sanford’s historical qualities. In 1993, their plans were adopted by city officials and Sanford’s Residential Historic District was founded. The Sanford Historic Trust serves the community of Sanford and those interested in preserving its historic heritage, promoting the historic character and charm of our fair city, while also serving to protect it for future generations.
TICKETS: Holiday Tour of Homes tickets are now on sale – 32nd Annual Sanford Holiday Tour of Homes Tickets, Sat, Dec 4, 2021 at 12:00 PM | Eventbrite
The Trust is continually finding ways to engage the community and encourage authenticity in the developments taking place within the Historic District. If you are interested in joining, an annual membership in the Sanford Historic Trust is $30 for individuals and organizations, and $10 for students. Trust meetings are open to the general public.
