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“This makes me want to buy a house on Pinner Street.” Those words, spoken by a visitor during the Holiday Tour, still echo in my mind. As someone who has poured heart and soul into downtown Suffolk’s Historic District, there is no sweeter music to my ears. That single statement embodies the essence of what we hoped to achieve—to show people the magic that residents already know is here.

Downtown Suffolk’s Historic District is reclaiming its charm, one step at a time. As a relatively new resident, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing this transformation firsthand. My husband and I moved to Suffolk’s historic district just two years ago, falling in love with a Bank Street home that begged to be brought back to life. We rolled up our sleeves, embraced the challenges of renovation, and have never looked back. But as we planted roots, we couldn’t help but notice some of the struggles that had taken hold in this once-splendid neighborhood.

Crime, unemployment, and dwindling owner occupied homes had dimmed the allure of downtown, leaving it to be feared and avoided rather than cherished. Yet, what was once a challenge has become an opportunity for change. The City of Suffolk has risen to the occasion, fostering growth and collaboration that has started to breathe new life into these historic streets.

This holiday season, that transformation was on full display. Together with the Suffolk Nansemond Historical Society, the City of Suffolk, generous sponsors, and tireless volunteers, we brought back a cherished tradition—the Holiday Tour. Churches, businesses, and owners of historic homes joined forces, dressing their properties in their holiday best to welcome visitors from across Hampton Roads. It was a magical weekend that showcased the beauty and spirit of downtown Suffolk.

The city swept the streets until they were clean and bare of leaves. Police placed barricades and took their positions along the route to make way for visitors on the 3/4 mile tour, stopping traffic to help many cross the street while sharing holiday greetings. A bluegrass brunch was offered to elevate the weekend’s experience, courtesy of a downtown chef and restaurateur. The history of our downtown was on full display, bringing a sense of nostalgia reminiscent of past candlelight home parades.

As a co-chair of this year’s tour, I had the honor of witnessing the excitement and collaboration that made it all possible. On the Friday before the event, I drove down Pinner and Bank Streets, checking on the properties and making deliveries. Driveways were bustling with activity as locals from across Suffolk arrived to help prepare. Freshly cut greens and flowers were transformed into stunning arrangements, each more spectacular than the last. These decorations weren’t just ornaments; they were symbols of pride and love for our community.

Today, downtown Suffolk is no longer just a place to live; it’s a destination. We walk to great restaurants, enjoy the sense of community, and revel in the history that surrounds us. Events like the Holiday Tour remind us of the potential that lies within this historic neighborhood, waiting to be rediscovered and celebrated.

Downtown Suffolk is in the midst of a revival. Our homes are being purchased by newcomers, and their renovations are unique and interesting, showcasing a way of life that honors the past while celebrating a new way to live amidst history. I believe Suffolkians who made their way to Main, Bank, and Pinner for an afternoon’s walk were inspired by the possibilities.

From my favorite seat in The Truitt House, I can tell time by the bells of Suffolk Christian, smell the scent of roasting peanuts in the air, visit with  neighbors who walk down Bank Street each day, and linger over which restaurant we will walk to for dinner. This is my downtown Suffolk.

As I reflect on this year’s success, I’m filled with gratitude for everyone who made it possible. And I’m optimistic about what lies ahead for downtown Suffolk. This is more than a revitalization; it’s a renaissance, a celebration of history, and a promise for the future. If you haven’t visited downtown Suffolk recently, come see for yourself. You might just fall in love with this corner of the world, as we did.

 

Kristy McCormally is on the board of The Suffolk-Nansemond Historical Society, the board of Preserving Historic Suffolk, The Historic Landmarks Commission, two of Suffolk’s oldest garden clubs, but most importantly, she lives in downtown Suffolk.