Virginia Beach Historic Preservation Commission Recognized with Outstanding Community Preservation Award

Preservation Virginia recognized the Virginia Beach Historic Preservation Commission with its Katherine Glaize Rockwood 2020 Outstanding Community Preservation Award at a ceremony on Sept. 23. The award is given annually to an individual, group, or activity that has made a significant contribution to the preservation of historic resources in Virginia. The awards ceremony, which was delayed over two years due to the pandemic, was held at Patrick Henry's Scotchtown historic site in Hanover County.

Preservation Virginia's awards committee was impressed by the commission's innovative preservation program, which includes a research grant program that has supported the research of underrepresented community histories and a historical highway marker program that increased the number of state highway markers in Virginia Beach by 33%. They also noted the commission's work with local schools to involve students in historic preservation and to help others learn more about Virginia Beach's history. In addition, Preservation Virginia recognized the work done by the commission in support of the Cape Henry Lighthouse, including its Pints for Preservation partnership with local craft breweries to raise funds for future lighthouse restoration projects.

Preservation Virginia is a privately-funded, statewide preservation organization, the oldest such organization in the United States having been founded in 1889. Preservation Virginia preserves and manages several important historic sites including Bacon's Castle, Cape Henry Lighthouse, the John Marshall House, and Historic Jamestowne. Its mission is to make Virginia's communities and historic places of memory stronger, more vital, and economically sustainable through preservation, education, and advocacy.

The Virginia Beach Historic Preservation Commission is a City Council-appointed body that advises Council on issues related to historic resources. They seek to preserve, protect and maintain the historic integrity of Virginia Beach and the former Princess Anne County through a program of advocacy and increased public awareness and involvement. The Commission actively supports projects to survey historic resources, recognize historic buildings, districts, and events, and research hidden areas of the city's history. The commission generally meets the first Wednesday evening of the month at 2875 Sabre St., Suite 500. Visit www.VBgov.com/historicpreservation for additional information about the Historic Preservation Commission.