Beneath the Moss: New WTOC+ series examines how preservation shapes Savannah

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Historic preservation is woven into Savannah’s identity, from its cobblestone streets to its iconic squares. A new WTOC+ series aims to explain why those places matter and how preservation continues to shape the city’s future.

“Beneath the Moss,” a collaboration between WTOC and the Historic Savannah Foundation, is airing throughout National Preservation Month in May. The series takes listeners inside preservation work in the city and the people behind it.

The series opens with “Preservation 101,” featuring Kaylee Johnson, Director of Preservation for Historic Savannah Foundation. In the opening episode, Johnson breaks down the basics of preservation and what the foundation’s work includes.

“Preservation by definition is to safeguard something - to keep something safe from decay, damage or loss,” Johnson said. “When we talk about historic preservation, we’re talking about safeguarding our historic resources. That can mean historic structures, but it can also extend to intangible heritage.”

Savannah offers many examples of preservation’s impact. Johnson points to the city’s local historic districts as proof of how preservation regulations have helped protect the city’s character over time.

She said preservation is especially important in a city like Savannah, where much of the preservation work has already been done and now must be maintained thoughtfully.

“We want the oldest building in Savannah today to still be the oldest building in Savannah for our future generations,” Johnson said. “It’s about protecting what Savannah is now, making sure that it grows intentionally, and making sure that it serves our communities today.”

The series continues with episodes throughout May that build on those ideas:

• Episode 2 features HSF President and CEO Collier Neely, who discusses the organization’s vision for the future and how preservation can connect residents.
• Episode 3 focuses on preservation and economic development, with HSF Board President Austin Hill exploring how historic preservation supports tourism, small businesses and local jobs.
• The series finale brings together Lucy Brannen and Catharine Varnedoe, granddaughters of the “7 Ladies” who founded the HSF in 1955 - along with Danielle Hodes, Executive Director of the Davenport House Museum. The episode highlights the legacy of the women who saved the Davenport House and new efforts to expand the site’s historical narrative.

Beneath the Moss streams live on WTOC+ every Tuesday and Thursday at 3:30 p.m. throughout the month of May, with episodes also available online after airing.