The fight for historic preservation goes beyond just the aesthetics of the architecture. As encapsulated by this editorial from Greenville, South Carolina, significance also lies within the social and community history encapsulated by even relatively modest homes:
“. . . a home is living history. It can be reproduced, but not replaced. The value of these homes goes far beyond reminding people what [a town] once looked like. They represent the people that built and inhabited them and the values, lifestyles and ethos of the community where they stand. . . . The value of preserving homes rests in what is preserved with them and what people can learn from each and all of those things.”
If you prefer the same sentiment in an easy to digest list format, check out the five point list “What We’re Losing When We Destroy Historical Sites,” written by Colonial Williamsburg.
Last Saturday, the two African-American markers at the National Avenue roundabout were dedicated, and the other three markers were erected. As you may have seen, the first round of bricks were installed along the pathway at that time as well. PHW took a few photos at the unveiling, which can be seen on Flickr. If you missed the chance to buy a brick last summer, PHW is once again partnering with the North End Citizens Association to sell a second round. Keep an eye out for more information soon!
This Saturday, a marker in Marshall County, West Virginia will be unveiled. Although out of PHW’s normal purview, this marker will be at the Cockayne family farm. You may recall two sisters, Sarah and Martha Cockayne, were the first long-term owner-occupants at the Hexagon House. We are happy to hear the family’s Merino wool farm continues to be researched and interpreted. The marker will be unveiled at a community celebration and the Cockayne House will be open for tours and a meet and greet with the site’s new executive director, Janell Keyser.
If you feel like staying closer to home, Saturday is also Glen Burnie Day at the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley. Stroll through an antique and modified car show coordinated by the Shenandoah Region Antique Automobile Club of America from 10 AM-2 PM and enjoy an outdoor concert by the Clarke County Brass Quintet at noon. Children’s activities take place all day. Food from Jordan Springs Market and Strite’s Donuts will be available for purchase. Admission and activities are free to all! (As an added bonus for Pokemon GO hunters, the MSV has plenty of Pokestops and two gyms to keep the trainers in your family entertained.) Learn more about Glen Burnie Day at www.themsv.org.
After you have your fun at the MSV, there’s still time to go to the Blues House Festival, also this Saturday, from 11 AM-7 PM. Hear some great music and help out a local nonprofit at the same time! More information on the Blues House is available at winchesterblueshouse.com.