Charlie and Dena Silver were given an award of merit for the sensitive relocation of Midway Plantation in Knightdale.

Charlie and Dena Silver demonstrated outstanding sensitivity and commitment in the relocation and preservation of their historic home, Midway Plantation, in Knightdale. Built in 1848 by a direct ancestor of Charlie's, Midway remained in the Silver family through the years. However, with the rapid development of Knightdale, the plantation and its five original outbuildings faced an onslaught of threats. Traffic along US 64 into Raleigh reached such a high level that it challenged Charlie and Dena's enjoyment of the house and their ability to come and go safely. The construction of a new interstate highway adjacent to the property was the final straw.

A new location was definitely needed, but the family had a number of concerns, including the home's status on the National Register of Historic Places. The original setting of a historic structure is a significant consideration in the evaluation of all historic properties. Charlie and Dena moved forward with their plans after obtaining a nearby rural ten-acre tract that was part of the same land grant as the original Midway Plantation. Still, they knew the project would have to be done right if the home was to be relisted on the National Register at its new location.

As recorded in the documentary film Moving Midway, the astounding task of moving the house and its outbuildings began. Plans were made to place the buildings in the precise direction and proximity to one another as they had been on the original site. Structural and interior renovations also were undertaken to make the house livable by today's standards, while respecting its integrity and period authenticity. Ultimately, Midway's National Register designation was restored.

Midway is not the only major preservation project to be undertaken by Charlie and Dena. In December 2005, they completed renovation of nearby Beaver Dam Plantation, constructed in 1810 by William Hinton, the brother of Charles Lewis Hinton, who built Midway. Beaver Dam is also on the National Register.

The dedication, care, and respect shown by the Silvers toward Midway demonstrated their true love of their homeplace and their keen sense of history and preservation. Preservation North Carolina is pleased to award Charlie and Dena Silver with a 2008 Gertrude Carraway Award of Merit.