SAVANNAH, Ga. () — The property owned by the Historic Savannah Foundation (HSF) is set to begin its first exterior restoration in 32 years.

The Davenport House was built in 1820 and has been operated by HSF since 1955, after seven local women saved the house from demolition, beginning the preservation movement in Savannah.

Their endangered places program advocates to protect historic properties, totaling over 400 buildings throughout Savannah.

Now, Davenport House undergoes its first restoration in 32 years.

Over the last several months, HSF staff and leadership determined that the exterior structure was in “need of a comprehensive restoration.”

The house hosts over 40,000 visitors each year. Their doors will remain open to visitors throughout the restoration process, which is expected to end in December.