HAGERSTOWN – The Washington County Board of County Commissioners awarded local citizens at the 45th Annual John Frye Historic Preservation Awards ceremony and luncheon. The recipients were awarded for their dedication and commitment to preserving and protecting the history of Washington County through historic rehabilitation, restoration, infill, letters and advocacy. Winners included:
Douglas G. Bast Museum of History and Preservation, Inc. – 2025 Preservation of Historical Structure Award
The late Doug Bast started the Boonsborough Museum of History in 1975 and never stopped collecting artifacts of historical significance locally and around the globe. This group of dedicated individuals successfully sorted, categorized and preserved this vital treasure trove of local historical documents and artifacts. Their efforts have made this invaluable historic collection available to the public.
Port 44 – 2025 Adaptive Reuse Award
Port 44, a local, woman-owned business based in Williamsport, focuses on preserving historic buildings in the town center through adaptive reuse. Their efforts have helped rebuild Williamsport’s historic downtown and beautify several notable buildings.
The Updegraff – 2025 Adaptive Reuse Award
In 1882, the Updegraff family constructed the building to manufacture and sell hats and gloves. Blackthorn Capital Partners purchased the building in 2022 and renovated it into high-end apartments and first floor retail space. There are 21 high-end residential units on the upper floors with vintage and modern touches. On the first floor, Baile Cask & Kettle contains a bagel shop in the front and a pub in the back. This renovation has significantly contributed to the redevelopment of historic downtown Hagerstown.
National Road Heritage Foundation – 2025 Hershey Schooley Advocacy Award
The Foundation installed exhibits in a former hardware store and original Trolley Station to promote the history of the Historic National Road and Historic Hagerstown & Frederick Railway. Through the museum’s efforts, visitors learn about the people and towns that sprung up along the macadamized road from east to west. The two museums cover different yet connected parts of central Maryland’s rich transportation history.
