April 2017 - Montgomery Preservation

Getting Started?

New to historic preservation or to how it works in Montgomery County? Visiting and learning about Montgomery County’s bountiful historic sites is a great way to start. Getting involved with any of the groups that share your interest in local historic places is the next step. Do you prefer Victorian homes, African American history, former schoolhouses, public buildings, Modernist architecture, rural cemeteries, or transportation history? Montgomery County has them all!

You can sample local history at Montgomery County Heritage Days, this year on June 23 and 24. Check out individual groups and historic sites on the RESOURCES section of this website. And please return here to follow the (future) link to help you get started in Historic Preservation in Montgomery County!

Silver Spring B&O Station

The historic train station is a beloved historic landmark and a community resource. After a disastrous car accident that severely damaged the station’s main facade in 1997, MPI rescued the station and, with assistance from private and public sources, restored it to its 1945 appearance. Today this museum of 20th century rail history regularly welcomes visitors, meetings, celebrations, and the general public.

The station is listed in the National Register of Historic Places, is designated on the Montgomery County Master Plan for Historic Preservation, and is protected by an easement held by the Maryland Historical Trust. Visit the Silver Spring B&O Railroad Station tab for more detailed information about station history, open houses, and rentals.

B&O Restoration in Progress

MPI is restoring 10 windows at the Silver Spring Station. Work by Oak Grove Restoration Co. includes removal, stripping, replacement of damaged wood, painting, and reinstallation. The Maryland Historical Trust holds exterior and interior easements on the station property.

News and Events around Montgomery County Spring 2017

May 6

Conservation Workshop at historic Monocacy Cemetery, on conservation techniques of 19^th and early 20^th century gravestones. 10 am-2 pm. Fee, pre-registration required. www.monocacycemetery.com

May 7

Takoma Park Spring House & Garden Tour 1-5 pm, shine or rain, self-guided. Features beautiful neighborhood surrounding Spring Park (starting point). More info and advance tickets at www.historictakoma.org or local stores, or on tour day.

May 7

Jane’s Walk in Historic Silver Spring 1-3:30 pm, free. Explore, talk about, celebrate at the original “Silver” Spring and Historic Environs. Jane Jacobs’ passion for urban neighborhoods starts at the Silver Spring B&O Railroad Station. www.sshistory.org

May 16

Montgomery County Council proclaims Historic Preservation Month 9:30 am in the Council Chambers, 100 Maryland Avenue, Rockville. Join fellow preservationists as the Council honors the value of local historic places and the exceptional network of historic preservation groups and advocacy organizations whose members dedicate time and resources to the preservation of County historic sites for the appreciation of residents and visitors alike.

May 27-29

Memorial Day Weekend – Flags out for Veterans at Montgomery County Cemeteries

June 24 and 25

20th annual Heritage Days weekend highlights local historic places, many that are not open frequently. Family and history buff friendly, and free !! See schedule and details at www.heritagemontgomery.org