Special to the Herald
SAVANNAH –The Historia Savannah Foundation, which is currently celebrating its 70th anniversary, will host a discussion about “Savannah legacy: A story of African American cultural preservation and innovation.” on Thursday, Jan. 23 at the HSF headquarters, 321 E. York St., Savannah. Attendees are invited to a wine reception at 5:30 p.m. The lecture will start at 6 p.m.
The January HSF Lecture will feature Meredith Stone, a local architectural and urban designer, preservationist, and real estate professional. This Savannah native will share her journey of genealogical research, including the incredible story of how she uncovered her family’s path from slavery to prominent community leaders.
In her lecture, Stone will discuss efforts to restore her family’s ancestral property, an 1890s home located south of Savannah State University. The Stone home notably became a haven for the local Black community during segregation and is situated on the former Placentia Plantation, where generations of the Stone family were once enslaved. The property is currently being nominated for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places, due to the significant contributions of Percy H. Stone, Harriet P. Stone, Monroe Nathan Work and the entire Stone family.
Stone and her family seek to honor the legacy of Percy and Harriet Stone by archiving their personal libraries and maintaining the family home.
“As a real estate professional and urban designer, Meredith understands that buildings are much more than brick and mortar. They are truly our legacy and the birthplace of traditions, stories and artifacts that will inform future generations about life in Savannah,” said Historic Savannah Foundation CEO and President Sue Adler. “We can’t wait for Meredith to share her family’s inspiring story at our January HSF Lecture.”
A graduate of Howard University, Stone earned a master’s degree in architecture and serves as a design associate with Gunn Meyerhoff Shay Architects in Savannah, where she designs and restores buildings that are significant to the Hostess City’s cultural landscape. To date, she has worked on a number of notable local buildings, including the Savannah Cultural Arts Center and The Alida Hotel.
Historic Savannah Foundation’s 2025 Lecture Series is open to the public. Reservations are recommended, as space is limited.
Attendance is free for Historic Savannah Foundation members and $15 for non-members. Members and non-members may RSVP by emailing Kendall Graham at kgraham@myhsf.org or calling 912-233-7787, ext. 109.
