The future preservation and protection of Natchez’s history is resting on the capable shoulders of two young men now at the helm of the Historic Natchez Foundation.

New HNF Executive Director Carter Burns and HNF Director of Preservations Chase Klugh are new to their jobs, but they have an amazing foundation set out by prior leaders Ron and Mimi Miller.

The Millers and countless board members and volunteers are to be applauded for the great work they’ve done throughout the more than four decades of the Foundation’s history in preserving and protecting the history that gives Natchez its ambiance and flavor.

As Carter wisely said recently, “It’s not all about the past but about the future and the kind of community we’ll leave for future generations.”

That’s a refreshing and accurate look at how historic preservation should be viewed.

Natchez critically needs the Historic Natchez Foundation to keep a careful watch over the city’s historical resources and assets, but it also must remain open and flexible to allow the city to grow and prosper.

We look for great things to continue to come from the HNF and its new leadership.