Historic Preservation

Cheraw is fortunate to have one of the best preserved historic districts in the State of South Carolina.  Cheraw has long been recognized for it's architectural and natural beauty and the effort that has gone into preserving the historic district over the years, including the creation of our own local architectural style "Cheraw Inc".

The Cheraw Historic District was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. The boundaries include approximately 35 blocks in the historic residential and commercial areas of town. The preservation and protection of the Cheraw Historic District has always been important to the community.

To help preserve the historic district for future generations and for visitors, it's appearance is managed by the Board of Architectural Review (BAR).  The BAR is charged with protecting and preserving our historic resources, and also educating property owners about best practices for historic preservation. 

The BAR is made up of local residents who have experience with history, design, or architecture.  The current members of the BAR are:

  • Corina Esaw, Chair
  • Van Pate, Vice Chair
  • Tonya Michael
  • Walker Davis
  • Susan Robertson



If you live in the historic district and are going to change the appearance of your home, including landscaping, roofing, additions, etc... it must be approved by the BAR.  For an application please click here. If you are the owner of a historic property, there is an excellent guide available to help guide changes to your home so that it retains its historic character.  The Cheraw Preservation manual can be downloaded by clicking here. (Caution, this is a large file!)

In 2018 the historic resources of Cheraw were evaluated to look at changes in the historic district.  The Historic Resources Survey produced is a fascinating look at the history of Cheraw.  The survey can be read online by clicking here.
For questions about the historic district please contact 

Rob Wolfe at 843-537-7283 or rwolfe@cheraw.com.

Check out Our History page!