A Note of Thanks from the MAHDC Board of Directors
The past several months have been a trying time for all of us. This prompts me to share a few thoughts with you as well as to take a moment to say, “Thank You.”
First, I would like to convey the gratitude of the MAHDC Board of Directors to all of the Historic District Commissions, CLG staff, and individual members and business associates for their support following the sudden passing of G. Bernard “Bernie” Callan on February 13th. We were saddened by the loss of our founder, mentor, and much-loved colleague. Now we are discovering just how much he contributed to the efficient working of the organization as Vice-President for Finance over the years.
The MAHDC Board contributed in Bernie’s memory to his beloved Schifferstadt Architectural Museum in Frederick to honor his role in guiding its stewardship. We have also arranged for four decades of MAHDC archives that Bernie stored in his home to be housed in the Maryland & Historical Collections, Special Collections and University Archives at the Hornbake Library, University of Maryland, College Park, for the benefit of future preservationists and researchers.
Second, I would like to extend our thanks to all of the Historic District Commissions that paid their annual 2020 dues in a timely manner. With your support, MAHDC can continue to offer training and other resources to our member Commissions. I am pleased to announce the launch of the MAHDC Virtual Training Program in June. The training page of the current issue of Maryland’s Historic Districts lists several virtual training opportunities this fall, including the National Trust for Historic Preservation Forum 2020.
Third, as MAHDC joins the work to address the challenges of systemic racism in our society, I would like to offer the recent statement from the National Trust for Historic Preservation for our common reflection: https://savingplaces.org/press-center/media-resources/statement-on-death-of-george-floyd-and-the-aftermath#.X0ZsR2RKiRs
In light of the suggestion of the National Alliance of Preservation Commissions (NAPC), MAHDC encourages Maryland’s Historic District Commissions to re-examine district boundaries in order to ensure that they include previously non-listed, but eligible, properties, particularly in historically African American neighborhoods. As we know, the designation of a property as a contributing feature to a national, state or local historic district confers not only distinction, but also potential economic benefits. The NAPC website is a valuable source of information about historic districts and preservation plans – www.napcommissions.org. It is important that preservationists work to preserve the underrepresented histories of our communities.
I encourage you to send us news of your activities and announcements for upcoming events that you would like to announce on the MAHDC Facebook page, on the website, or in the next issue of Maryland’s Historic Districts.
Finally, I wish to address those of you that have been affected by COVID-19, personally or through your loved ones. I send you our warmest embrace and wish you a speedy recovery in the name of the entire MAHDC Board.
With warm regards,
Frederick A. Stachura, J.D.
MAHDC Board President
