ST. MARY’S CITY, Md. — Peter A. Friesen, Director of Education at Historic St. Mary’s City (HSMC), has been elected Vice President of the Association for Living History, Farm, and Agricultural Museums (ALHFAM), an international organization dedicated to preserving rural and agricultural history through immersive experiences. Friesen’s election highlights his leadership in living history and HSMC’s growing national prominence.
ALHFAM supports museums and professionals across nine regions in the United States and Canada, fostering collaboration and hands-on historical interpretation. Friesen, who assumed his vice-presidential role immediately, will work with museum professionals in North America and Europe to promote professional development and support within the network.
“Peter’s election is a testament not only to his creativity and leadership, but also to Historic St. Mary’s City’s growing role on the national stage,” said John L. Seidel, PhD, Executive Director of Historic St. Mary’s City. “His work bridges scholarship and storytelling in ways that captivate audiences and deepen understanding of early American life. We’re proud to have one of our own shaping the future of the museum field.”
Since joining HSMC as Director of Education in 2014, Friesen has expanded educational programs that connect visitors with 17th-century Maryland. His collaborative approach has earned HSMC regional and national recognition. In 2019, the Maryland Historical Trust awarded the HSMC Education Department the Maryland Preservation Award for Excellence in Public Programming for its “Adults Only Tour.” This team-developed program featured evening tours exploring mature themes of early Maryland, engaging audiences with complex historical narratives.
In 2020, the American Association for State and Local History (AASLH) honored HSMC with its Award of Excellence for the same program, titled “Sin and Scandal at St. Mary’s: An Adults Only Tour.” The awards reflect the education team’s ability to present historically accurate and engaging content for diverse audiences. Friesen’s leadership was pivotal in shaping these innovative programs.
Friesen also contributed to the construction of the new Maryland Dove, a replica ship at HSMC. Alongside retired Captain William Gates, he ensured the vessel’s main deck was ADA-accessible, a rare feature for tall ships. This achievement underscores HSMC’s commitment to inclusivity, making history accessible to all visitors.
HSMC, located on the site of Maryland’s first capital, is a living history museum that interprets 17th-century colonial life through immersive exhibits and programs. Friesen’s work has strengthened its reputation as a leader in public history education. His election to ALHFAM’s leadership positions HSMC to influence the broader field of living history museums.
Friesen’s vice-presidential term will focus on fostering collaboration and professional growth within ALHFAM’s network. His role builds on HSMC’s legacy of innovative programming and community engagement, ensuring that living history remains a vibrant tool for education. The museum’s recent awards and accessible design initiatives reflect its broader mission to preserve and share early American history in meaningful ways.
