LEONARDTOWN, MD – In celebration of Historic Preservation Month, the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County (CSMC) and Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) presented the annual Historic Preservation Awards. Established in 1999, these awards recognize outstanding achievement and excellence in the field of historic preservation in St. Mary’s County.
The awards ceremony, held on May 14, 2024, during the CSMC business meeting, honored individuals who have made significant contributions to preserving the rich history of St. Mary’s County. The 2024 recipients exemplify dedication to historical research, conservation, and education.
Service Award: Eve Love and John Cook
Eve Love and John Cook were honored with a Service Award for their extensive research and publication of the book “Before the Base.” Their work provides a detailed snapshot of the farms, businesses, and communities that existed before the land was acquired in 1942 for the development of the Naval Air Station Patuxent River. This book serves as a vital record of the area’s pre-base history, preserving memories and information that might otherwise have been lost.
Service Award: Father Francis Michael Walsh
Father Francis Michael Walsh also received a Service Award for his book, “The Story of the Saint Indigoes Mission 1634 – 1994.” This publication chronicles the history of the Catholic Jesuit Mission in St. Mary’s County, detailing its journey from the early settlers to the modern era. Father Walsh’s meticulous documentation offers an invaluable resource for understanding the religious and cultural heritage of the region.
Project Award: Paul Choporis
Paul Choporis was awarded the Project Award for his efforts in the conservation and re-purposing of the old “Honey Lane” restaurant and bar in Lexington Park, originally established in 1946. His work has preserved a significant piece of the local community’s social history while giving the establishment a new life. The conservation of “Honey Lane” highlights the importance of maintaining historical structures for future generations.
The ceremony highlighted the importance of preserving local history and the outstanding efforts of those dedicated to this cause. Photos of the awards ceremony are available online at Flickr, and a video of the event can be viewed on the St. Mary’s County Government YouTube Channel.
In addition to the awards, the HPC invites residents to attend an upcoming historical lecture on Southern Maryland Tobacco Barns. The lecture will take place on May 30, 2024, at 6 p.m. in the CSMC meeting room located in the Chesapeake Building at 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown. The event will be broadcast live on SMCG TV Channel 95 and the SMCG YouTube channel. This lecture is part of ongoing efforts to educate the public about the region’s historical assets and the importance of their preservation.
For more information about the St. Mary’s County Historic Preservation Commission and their activities, residents can visit the HPC website.
