City of Washington News Release

During National Preservation Month, which is May, the City of Washington will honor preservation efforts in the city.

Each week during National Preservation Month, The Washington Historic Preservation Commission and Scott Campbell, an agent with Century 21 The Realty Group, will choose a residential or commercial property in Washington’s Historic District that reflects ongoing maintenance efforts, a compatible addition, rehabilitation and restoration and the spirit of the good-neighbor award, which will reflect compatibility and harmony with existing neighbors.

This year’s National Preservation Month theme is “Discover America’s Hidden Gems.” Communities from coast to coast are filled with unexplored historic treasures — and May is the month to celebrate them.

Historic preservation is recognized as an effective tool for managing growth, revitalizing neighborhoods, fostering local pride and maintaining community character. Washington’s residential and commercial properties in its Historic District are integral in how the residents of Washington and Beaufort County work, recreate and live. These important districts also significantly contribute to the atmosphere that draws visitors and tourists, and the positive economic effects that occur from those visits.

The city will recognize and celebrate the contributions made by dedicated owners of residential and commercial properties in Washington’s Historic District during this month.

Some property owners will be awarded Rena K. Terrell Cups, which are dedicated to the memory of a charter member of the Washington Historic District Commission. Terrell 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 Terrell’s memory since she was devoted to preserving historic resources and promoting the city. Rena K. Terrell Cup recipients will have a $100 gift in their name contributed to the Historic District’s tree reestablishment program. Additional contributions are sponsored by Campbell.

“The City of Washington appreciates the efforts by all homeowners to maintain their homes to the extent they are noticed and nominated for an award,” said Bianca Shoneman, a city planner. “Their commitment to preserving their home or adding to it contributes greatly to the charm and historic character of our community.”