Washington Grove Historic Preservation Commission advances archives work, signage drafts and preservation‑waiver planning

At its Jan. 20 meeting the Washington Grove Historic Preservation Commission reviewed progress on several ongoing preservation projects, assigned follow‑up tasks, and scheduled a public joint working meeting with the Planning Commission for February.

On commemorative signage, commissioners Wendy Harris, Mimi Styles and Chair Bob Booher reported progress on draft language for signs for the Auditorium and Tabernacle. The commission flagged a remaining issue with the “tent” sign: staff and commissioners want a reliable interpretive approach or an appropriate source image before finalizing text.

The signage team planned to meet with local collector Phil Winter to review photographs from his collection and to discuss longer‑term stewardship options for interpretive materials.

On archives and collections, the Chair reported contact from Margaret Church about her daughter, a museum‑studies professional who may be available for part‑time archival assistance. The commission discussed confirming availability, compensation and coordination with Archivist Pat Patula’s remaining work and budget. Members recorded next steps to complete Camp Meeting Association records for transfer to the State Archives and to address post‑1937 municipal records thereafter; possible University of Maryland student help and County archival contacts were noted.

The commission assigned several follow‑up tasks: Chair Bob Booher will contact Margaret Church’s daughter to discuss interest and budget capacity; he will also coordinate with Archivist Pat Patula to confirm current work status and priorities for transfer/completion. The commission will draft a general job description for archival assistance to support recruitment or contracting. Separately, Commission member David Stopak will prepare additional written materials and questions to support an efficient February joint meeting with Planning Commission members; Georgette Cole will circulate proposed dates to the core working group so the public meeting can be announced.

Procedural business recorded at the start of the meeting included approval of the Jan. 20 agenda (as amended) and adoption of the Dec. 16, 2025 minutes (as amended). The meeting adjourned at 8:23 p.m.; the next meeting is scheduled for Feb. 17, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. via Zoom.