LEONARDTOWN, MD – The St. Mary’s County Historic Preservation Commission has officially opened the nomination period for its Annual Historic Preservation Awards, aiming to honor significant contributions to the conservation and celebration of the county’s rich historical legacy. Since its inception in 1999, the awards have become a cornerstone in recognizing the efforts and achievements in the preservation of St. Mary’s County’s cultural and architectural heritage.
The commission is accepting nominations across three distinct categories, each designed to highlight different aspects of historic preservation:
- Preservation Project Award: This category celebrates the meticulous restoration of historic buildings, the thoughtful integration of architectural features in new constructions, and the adaptive reuse of historical structures, ensuring they remain vibrant and functional parts of the community.
- Preservation Service Award: Aimed at individuals or groups who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to the advancement of historic preservation in St. Mary’s County. This includes efforts in education, research, development, planning, advocacy, and leadership that have contributed significantly to the preservation landscape.
- Lifetime Achievement Awards: This prestigious recognition is reserved for those who have devoted many years to the cause of preserving the county’s history, making lasting impacts that will benefit future generations.
The Historic Preservation Commission is calling on the public to nominate deserving individuals, organizations, or projects that exemplify the best in historic preservation. Nominations should focus on achievements made from January to December 2023, allowing the community to acknowledge recent efforts in safeguarding the county’s heritage.
Prospective nominees have until 5 p.m. on March 25, 2024, to submit their applications. The necessary forms and detailed submission instructions are available for download at www.stmarysmd.com/docs/Historic_Preservation_Awards_Nomination_Form.docx. This deadline provides ample time for community members to identify and nominate projects or individuals that have made a significant impact in the past year.
The awards ceremony, scheduled for May 2024, will see the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County presenting the accolades. This event not only recognizes the dedication of those committed to historic preservation but also raises awareness of the importance of preserving the physical links to the county’s past.
For those interested in learning more about the work of the St. Mary’s County Historic Preservation Commission or the awards process, additional information is available at www.stmaryscountymd.gov/HPC. The commission’s efforts underscore the community’s commitment to maintaining its historical identity while fostering an environment where the past is not only remembered but also integrated into the present and future development.
The Annual Historic Preservation Awards represent a unique opportunity for St. Mary’s County to showcase the achievements of those who work tirelessly to protect and promote its historical assets. As the nomination period progresses, the commission eagerly anticipates discovering the projects and individuals that have stood out in their dedication to preserving the county’s rich and diverse history.
