Drayton Hall A Year To Be Thankful

Dear Friends,

Thanks to your generous support and the perseverance of our dedicated staff, 2022 has been an extremely busy and productive year for Drayton Hall Preservation Trust. As I look back over the last twelve months, I could not be prouder of our collective accomplishments- especially given the challenges created by the Covid-19 pandemic and the continued threats brought by hurricanes.

2022 saw considerable progress in our ongoing efforts to preserve the Drayton main house. Not only were the stairs of stairhall strengthened, but the deteriorating 20^th century girders supporting this space were replaced and the declining modern ceiling overhead was repaired. At the same time our newly established Archaeology Department began excavations at the rear of the main house and in the cellar to better understand the original construction of Drayton Hall and the lifeways of those that lived and worked here. An incredible number of discoveries have been made, and we are thrilled to share these daily with visitors in the new Stephen J. Wood Conservation Laboratory.

It has also been rewarding to see guests physically return to Drayton Hall following the pandemic as we are now welcoming more than 90% of our pre-pandemic visitors. What is more, fresh and innovative programs on and offsite are engaging new audiences locally and internationally. From our online webinar series and new audio guides, to our hosting the 2022 Charleston Spring Show Preview Party, the important and powerful histories of Drayton Hall are reaching a wider audience than ever.

Thank you again for making 2022 one of the most successful years on record. We look forward to welcoming you back on site in 2023!

Sincerely,

Carter