Preservation efforts have kept Old Beaufort much as it was when the town incorporated in 1722. Tour beautifully restored historic homes interpreted in period style, the old jail, the oldest wood-framed courthouse in the state, an apothecary shop, and the Old Burying Ground. Take a tour aboard a vintage English double-decker bus and hear costumed guides tell stories of Beaufort?s rich past of pirates, star-crossed lovers and Confederate spies. Stroll through the Mattie King Davis Art Gallery and view the works of local and regional artists. Browse through the Old Beaufort Gift Shop?s extensive collection of books on local history, hand-woven rugs, locally carved decoys, fresh herbs, pottery, and much more.