Welcome to the Preservation Foundation of Palm Beach, a cornerstone of cultural and architectural heritage in Palm Beach, Florida. Founded in 1981 by the Honorable Judge James R. Knott, this nonprofit organization has been instrumental in preserving the unique character of this tropical paradise. At the heart of its mission is the preservation of significant architectural treasures and public spaces that define Palm Beach’s charm.
The Foundation’s history is deeply intertwined with the efforts of influential figures such as Barbara Drew Hoffstot, a pioneer in historic preservation. Her landmark publication, ‘Landmark Architecture in Palm Beach,’ laid the groundwork for the town’s Landmarks Preservation Ordinance in 1979, ensuring that the architectural splendors of Palm Beach would endure for generations.
Over the years, the Preservation Foundation has orchestrated several significant restoration projects. Among them is the saving of Sea Gull Cottage, the oldest house in Palm Beach, and the revitalization of the historic Town Hall. The Foundation’s impact extends beyond buildings; it has created spaces like Pan’s Garden, a sanctuary dedicated to educating visitors about native plants and butterflies, enhancing both the town’s beauty and its ecological awareness.
The Foundation also plays a critical role in education, reaching nearly 5,000 students annually through programs that connect them with the island’s rich history. Initiatives like the Heritage Education Program have earned recognition, including the Outstanding Achievement Award in Education from the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation.
Through advocacy and action, the Preservation Foundation of Palm Beach continues to protect the physical and cultural landscape of the town. Join us in celebrating the past, while looking forward to a future where history and modernity coexist in harmony.
