Cup for Stones

Published 12:17 am Sunday, May 22, 2011

Each week during National Preservation Month, Washington’s Historic Preservation Commission and Scott Campbell, an agent with Century 21 The Realty Group, select a residential or commercial property in Washington’s historic districts that reflects the ongoing maintenance efforts, a compatible addition, rehabilitation and restoration, and the good neighbor award which will reflect compatibility and harmony with existing neighbors. This week, the “Good Neighbor Award” was presented to Ed and Shirley Stone of 513 E. Second St. Their restoration efforts reflected compatibility and harmony with existing neighbors.

Ed and Shirley Stone were this week’s recipients of the Rena K. Terrell award for historic preservation. Pictured (from left) are Jessica Selby, Ed Stone, Shirley Stone, Bianca Gentile, Kasey Stamey and Scott Campbell. (Submitted Photo)

Built in 1891 by Ira and Sallie Congleton, the Stones restored the home in 2007-2008. Ira, a builder, bought the lot and built the home with $1,000 willed to Sallie by her father. The home remained in the Congleton family for over 100 years. It was important to Ed and Shirley to preserve this treasure and retain the history of the Congleton family.

During renovation, care was taken to restore the home exactly as it was originally. The Stones used photos as old as circa 1912 provided by the family and survey drawings dating back to 1900 as their guide. It was from these drawings that they discovered an original 35-by-10 foot back porch which was rebuilt. Photos helped verify the type of porch posts, shutters and handrails the home had. All of the original windows were reworks, old doors and mantle pieces were restored and handprints of Ira and Sallie’s children were uncovered and protected.

Through much research and care, the Stones created a home that meets all of the needs of a family today but maintains the character of a home built by a family so many years ago.

Property owners are awarded the Rena K. Terrell cups, dedicated to the memory of a charter member of the Washington Historic District Commission who was active in promoting historic preservation. She was a member of the Historic Preservation Foundation of North Carolina, the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the city’s official representative on the board of directors of the Historic Albemarle Tour.

The committee feels that it is most appropriate that these awards are made in Rena’s memory since she was devoted to preserving our historic resources and promoting our city. Rena K. Terrell Cup recipients will also be given the choice of a membership to Preservation North Carolina, an organization that promotes and protects the buildings and landscapes of our state’s diverse heritage, or, a contribution to the landscaping stock in one of our public green spaces. Additional contributions are sponsored by Scott Campbell, an agent with the Century 21 The Realty Group.