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Washington County Historic District Commission
Design Guidelines Committee Contributors:
Chris Horst, Chair
Merry Stinson, Vice Chair
Robert Bowman II,
Thomas G. Clemens
Kurt Cushwa
Sandra D. Izer
Charles R. Stewart
Christine Toms
Gary W. Rohrer
Michael Gehr, former Chair
Carla Viar
David Wiles
Steve Goodrich, Washington County Chief Senior Planner
Debra Eckard, Secretary, Planning Commission
Acknowledgments
The Maryland Historical Trust
Preservation Maryland
The Washington County Historical Trust for their generous
permission to use photographs from "The Architectural
and Historic Treasures of Washington County, Maryland"
The National Register of Historic Places
Adopted by the Washington County Historic Districts Commission
and the Board of Washington County Commissioners, 20 --
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East entry of Rose Hill, built in 1804, Spielman Road, Williamsport. Owned by Mrs. Jane Hershey
3
Table of Contents
Section 1 - Introduction
8 Historic Preservation 101
10 Certified Local Government
13 Washington County Historic District Commission
14 Authority
14 Functions of Historic District Commission
18 Purpose of the Guidelines
18 Certificate of Appropriateness
19 Compliance with other Codes
19 Failure to Comply
20 Section 106 Review
22 Other Historic Agencies, Commissions & Groups
22 Historical Advisory Committee
22 Hagerstown Historic District Commission
23 Washington County Historical Trust
24 Washington County Historical Society
Section 2 - Applications for Review
26 Flow Chart for Historic Properties Building Permits
27 Applications Requirements
29 Evaluation Process
30 Ordinary Maintenance
32 Flow Chart for Demolition Permits Review
33 The Last Resort - Demolition
Section 3 - Tax Credit Program
44 Washington County Historic Preservation Tax Credit
45
Eligible Work
46
Not Eligible
46
Criteria for eligible work
46
Guidance and Tips for Complete Tax Credit packages
49
Historic Preservation Tax Credits Case Studies
50
Maryland Tax Credits
51
Federal Tax Credits
Section 4
- Zoning Ordinances and Historic Districts
54 Preservation Zoning Ordinances
54
Federal Level
55
State Level
55
County Level
58 Washington County Historical Resources
58
Washington County Historical Site Survey
60
Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties
61
Rural Villages
64
Historical Preservation Zone Properties
66
Antietam Overlay
68
National Register of Historic Places Properties
Incorporated Towns in Washington County
4
Section 5 - Traditions & Architectural Styles
70 Architectural Styles of Washington County
71 Traditional Vernacular Forms 18th -19th century
72 Federal c. 1780-1840
73 Greek Revival c. 1830-1860
74 Italianate/Italian Villa c. 1830-1880
75 Second Empire c. 1860-1890
76 Queen Anne c. 1880-1910
77 Colonial Revival c. 1876-1920
79 Classical Revival c. 1900-1920
80 Art Deco c. 1925-1940
Section 6 - The Standards
82 Secretary of the Interior Standards
83 Overview
86 Standards for Preservations
87 Standards for Rehabilitation
88 Standards for Restoration
90 Standards for Reconstruction
Section 7 - Design Guidelines
94 Context and Site Features
104 Rehabilitation Of Existing Buildings
125 New Construction
126 New Buildings And Additions To Historic Buildings
136 New Site Features And Accessory Buildings
145 Rehabilitation Of Existing Commercial Buildings
Section 8
- Lists
Rural
Villages
159
Antietam
176
Dargan
160
Bagtown
177
Downsville
161
Bakersville
178
Eakles Mill
162
Beaver Creek
179
Edgemont
163
Big Pool
180
Fairplay
163
Ernstville
180
Tilghmanton
164
Big Spring
181
Fairview
165
Bostetter
182
Huyett
166
Breathededville
183
Fairview
167
Bridgeport
184
Fiddlersburg/Security
168
Brownsville
185
Gapland
169
Cascade
186
Garrett's Mill
170
Cavetown
187
Greensburg
171
Cearfoss
188
Highfield
172
Cedar Lawn
189
Huyett
173
Charlton
190
Indian Springs
174
Chewsville
191
Jugtown
175
Conococheage - Wilson
192
Kemp's Mill
5
193
Lappans
203
Pen Mar
194
Leitersburg
204
Pinesburg
195
Mapleville
205
Pondsville
196
Maugansville
206
Reid
197
Mercersville
207
Ringgold
198
Middleburg
208
Rohrersville
199
Mt. Aetna
209
Sandy Hook
200
Mount Briar
210
St. James [Lydia]
201
Mt. Lena
211
Trego-Rohrersville Station
202
Pectonville
212
Williamsport Station
213
Yarrowsburg
217 National Register of Historic Places in Washington County
251 Bridges of Washington County
251 Historic Bridges with Historic Preservation Zoning
253 County Bridges on Washington County Site Survey
255 Public owned Properties protect by Historic Preservation Zone
255 Privately owned Properties protect by Historic Preservation Zone
257 Section 106 Review
471 Glossary
Section
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Introduction
Historic Preservation 101
Washington County faces a challenge that becomes increas-
ingly important each day: How will we preserve, protect, and use
the historic buildings and sites that give our community its essential
historic character? Currently, our county ranks fourth in the state
of Maryland with 5,011 standing structures listed on the Maryland
Inventory of Historic Properties.) We rank fifth in the state with
2,765 standing structures listed on the National Register of Historic
Places. 2 A fairly impressive standing.
Historic preservation stabilizes and improves property value
and strengthens the local economy. The United States Congress de-
clares that "the historical and cultural foundations of the Nation should
be preserved as a living part of our community life,"and "the preserva-
tion of this irreplaceable heritage is in the public interest so that its vital
legacy of cultural, educational, aesthetic, inspirational, economic and
energy benefits will be maintained and enriched for future generations
ofAmericans. "3 Additionally, the State of Maryland states in Section
8.01 of Article 66B, the legislation that delegates land use authority
The Kammerer House, built 1774. Although to the various political subdivisions of the state, "The preservation of
a concerted effort was made to save this
rare and charming house, it was lost to sites, structures and districts of historical, archeological or architectural
development in April of 1999. value together with their appurtenances and environmental settings is a
public purpose in this State."
Washington County currently uses a va-
riety of approaches to preserve its historic and
, archaeological resources, and collectively these
I: efforts have resulted in the preservation and pro-
f l tection of numerous important resources in the
County. Nevertheless, development pressures
continue to compete with historic preservation
goals, and structures continue to be lost due to
7i1 demolition by neglect, ambivalence, and disre-
' s4 gard for local preservation ordinances. To better
4J.w protect our historic and cultural resources from
= '"` these pressures, the County had identified the
following needs:5
1 As reported by the Maryland Historical Trust, need date 1 Montgomery, 2 Frederick, 3 Baltimore City 4 Washington
2 ibid. 1 Baltimore City, 2 Frederick 3 Prince George's 4 Baltimore 5 Washington
3 need citation
4 The process of allowing a structure to fall into disrepair by neglecting basic maintenance to the point where demolition is necessary to protect
public health and safety, either unintentional or willfully.
5 Washington County Comprehensive Plan as adopted -----
Introduction
I
• Take a proactive role by identifying potential devel-
opment sites that will negatively impact listed or eli-
gible resources.
• Raise awareness about existing regulations, estab-
lishing stronger communications within the County
government to prevent the inadvertent destruction
of sites.
+ Evaluate and mitigate the potential effect of large
scale development initiatives.
+ Establish more robust penalties to discourage the in-
tentional destruction of historic resources.
+ Encourage incentives and the adoption of protective
measures for resources within the eight incorporated
municipalities.
The primary goal of the county historic preservation pro-
gram is the conservation of significant, scarce, non-renewable his-
toric resources. To achieve this goal, we must accept stewardship of
historic properties as a shared responsibility between the public and
the private sector. Historic preservation is an important and legiti-
mate local government service, and the time, effort, and financial
resources we spend on historic preservation is one of the commu-
nity's wisest investments, returning multiple benefits from modest
expenditures on research, planning, protective measures, technical
assistance, and education.
Not everything that is old is worth preserving, nor is histor-
ic preservation concerned primarily with the creation of museums
or other public attractions. Rather the protection and preservation
of the historic structures, sites and resources that give Washing-
ton County much of its special character and community identity,
through careful, enforceable, regulations.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
10
Certified Local Government
Washington County earned the Certified Local Government
(CLG) designation on August 28, 1991, after a lengthy application
review process. The Certified Local Government Program, a federal -
state -local partnership, is administered through the Office of Heri-
tage Planning and Outreach. To date there are eighteen local gov-
ernments certified in Maryland, including: Annapolis, Baltimore
City, Baltimore County, Bel Air, Calvert County, Chestertown,
Cumberland, Frederick, Frederick County, Hagerstown, Montgom-
ery County, Prince George's County, Rockville, St. Mary's County,
I Salisbury, Talbot County, Wash -
A Certified Local Government CLG must enforce State
or local legislation for the designation and protection of ington County, and Wicomico
County. To be recognized as certi-
historic properties and establish and maintain a qualified
historic preservation commission. fled, local governments must agree
to:
• Enforce State or local legislation for the designation and
protection of historic properties
• Establish and maintain a qualified historic preservation com-
mission
• Maintain a system for the survey and inventory of historic
properties in coordination with its State Historic Preserva-
tion Office
• Provide for public participation in its activities
• Perform other agreed upon functions delegated to it by its
State Historic Preservation Officer
Benefits of becoming certified include eligibility to
compete for funds to conduct projects that promote preserva-
tion, CLG Subgrant funds, ability to participate in the CLG
Educational Set Aside Program, formal participation in the
National Register nomination process, annual performance
evaluations, and priority technical assistance. In addition to
earning an official position in the National Register review
process, Washington County is also eligible to apply for funds
to conduct projects which promote preservation.
Introduction
11
Washington County
Historic District
Commission
The seven members servinl
the Washington County Historic
trict Commission (HDC) are appo
by Board of County Commissionei
Washington County. Each comn
member is appointed to a three-year i
All Historic District Commissionei
residents of Washington County
have knowledge, special interest, e
ence, knowledge or training in: arc!
ture, history, architectural history,
American civilization, law, or cultural anthropology. At least two
members of the Historic District Commission meet the Maryland
Historical Trust's "Qualifications for Certified Local Government
Historic Preservation Commission Professional Members."At present,
no member of the Historic District Commission receives compen-
sation for their services.'
For an application to serve as a historic district commissioner,
or additional information on eligibility or terms of service, contact
the Washington County Planning office. A planning department
staff member is designated as the liaison to the Historic District
Commission and is the contact point for all Historic District Com-
mission business.
6 Pursuant to the authority granted to Washington County in Article 66B of the Annotated Code of Maryland, there is hereby
created the "Historic District Commission of Washington County, Maryland." a) The Commission shall consist of seven (7) members appointed
by the Board of County Commissioners. Each member must be a resident of Washington County. b) The Commission shall have at least two
(2) members appointed from among the disciplines of architecture, history, architectural history or archeology to meet the Maryland Historical
Trust's "Qualifications for Certified Local Government Historic Preservation Commission Professional Members" effective at the time of their
appointment. A good -faith effort to locate and appoint such professionals, to the extent that they are available in the community, will be made,
and documentation as to how this effort was accomplished shall be kept among the Commission's records. In the event that appointment
guidelines specified above cannot be met, all Commission members must meet the standards specified in 20.1c). c) The Commission's
total membership shall also include at least three (3) other members, who may or may not necessarily meet the qualifications included in (b)
above, but who have demonstrated special interest, experience, knowledge or training in architecture, history, architectural history, planning,
American civilization, law, or cultural anthropology. d) All Commission members shall be selected to represent the geographical, social,
economic and cultural concerns of the residents of Washington County. e) Term. The terms of the members of the Commission shall be for a
three-year period except that the initial appointments shall be staggered so that no more than three (3) of the appointments shall expire in any
one year. f) Vacancy. Any vacancy in the membership of the Commission shall be filled within sixty days in the same manner as provided in
(b) and (c) above. g) Removal for cause. A member may be removed for cause from the Commission by the Board of County Commissioners
for inefficiency, neglect of duty or malfeasance in office. h) Compensation. All members of the Commission shall serve with such compensa-
tion as the local legislative body deems appropriate and will be reimbursed for actual expenses incurred in performance of their duties,
provided said expenses are permitted by the budget and approved by the County Commissioners. Revision 2, Sections 20.0, 20.0 a), b) and
e) amended 9/22/87 (RZ-367) 100 Revision 2, Sections 20.1 e), t), g), h) amended 9/22/87 (RZ-367)
Landing, this eighteenth century structure
exemplifies excellence in restoration and
preservation standards.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
DUTIES OF THE HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION
• To act upon all applications as required by county ordinance.
• Make recommendations to the authorities on any legislation, zoning amendments, and master
plans that may affect historic preservation in Washington County.
• Recommend programs and legislation to the Board of County Commissioners to encourage
historic preservation.
• Promote and advance historical preservation in Washington County by education, distribution
of information, and coordination of historical agencies.
• Prepare, adopt and publish additional guidelines in order to adequately review applications.
•Oversee, maintain and update the Washington County Historic Site Survey.
THE HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION HAS
AUTHORITY TO APPROVE OR DENY:
• Design review on all new construction within a certified Rural Village or Antietam Overlay.
• Design review on all construction within a Historic Preservation Zone.
• Demolition permit applications on structures within a Historic Preservation Zone and contrib-
uting structures with Antietam Overlay zoning.
•Determination for the issuance of property tax credits for properties zoned as: National Regis-
ter of Historic Places; Historic Preservation: the Antietam Overlay.
THE HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION
MAKES RECOMMENDATION ON:
• Demolition permit applications for structures identified on the Historic Site Survey.
• Zoning Text, map amendments, special exceptions and variances, site plans, and sub -division
applications that affect historical structures or zones.
13
The Historic District Commission meets monthly, usually
the first Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. in the Adminis-
trative Annex Conference Room IA.
The HDC is granted authority under Article 66B of
Authority the Annotated Code of Maryland and Article 20 of the
Washington County Zoning Ordinance
The Washington County
Historic District Commission is
granted authority under Article 66B of the Annotated Code of
Maryland. Article 66B delegates basic planning and land use regu-
latory powers and must be exercised in accordance with applicable
provisions. The commission also operates under the rules, regula-
tions and by-laws set forth under Article 20 of the Washington
County Zoning Ordinance.
Functions of Historic District Commission
The function of the Historic District Commission is to over-
see the historic preservation program as defined by Washington
County ordinance, and pursue the goals as outlined by the Wash-
ington County Comprehensive plan; essentially to identify and pre-
serve distinctive and historic architectural features of the County.
The principal responsibilities of the HDC are to investigate,
recommend and keep a register of properties designated as historic
landmarks or districts; to provide assistance to property owners re-
garding the preservation or renovation or their buildings; and to in-
form and educate citizens of Washington County on their historic
and architectural heritage. More routine duties of the HDC are
to review applications for Certificates of Appropriateness (COA) so
7a) The Commission shall act upon all applications as required by Section 20.6 of this Ordinance.
b) The Commission shall review any legislation, applications for zoning text or map amendment, special exception, variance, site plan or
subdivision application and other proposals affecting historic preservation, including preparation and amendment of master plans, and may
make recommendations thereon to the appropriate authorities;
c) The Commission shall recommend programs and legislation to the Board of County Commissioners and the Planning Commission to
encourage historic preservation;
d) The Commission shall serve as a clearing house for information on historic preservation for County Government, individuals, citizens' asso-
ciations, historical societies, and local advisory committees; to provide information and educational materials for the public; and to undertake
activities to advance the goals of historic preservation in Washington County, Maryland.
e) The Commission shall advise and participate in the development of additional duties or standards to be added to this Ordinance in pursuit
of the stated purpose of Section 20.0. Specifically, additional criteria may be developed by the Historic District Commission to be used in its
review of building permits applications as specified in Section 20.6.
f) The Commission shall prepare, adopt, publish and amend as necessary additional guidelines to specify the information it requires in the
form of scale drawings, renderings or photographs, materials, specifications, etc. in order to adequately review and rule on applications for
establishment of "HP" zones and building permits. These guidelines shall be made available at all times.
g) The Commission shall oversee the maintenance and updating of the inventory of the Washington County Historic Sites Survey. 102
Revision 2, Section 20.3 g) amended 9/22/87 (RZ-367)
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
14
This eighteenth century stone mill now
serves a a private residence in the National
Register District of Beaver Creek.
: established guidelines are followed regard -
exterior alterations of historic buildings.
Current mechanisms designed to advance
tic preservation of historic resources include to
doption of Historic Preservation, Antietam Over-
- ay and Rural Village zoning designations, which
equire adherence to certain design guidelines dur-
ng the rehabilitation of existing structures and new
onstruction, located in the zones. The Historic Dis-
• rict Commission administers those guidelines, as
ell as the property tax credits for preservation and
estoration that are created by a separate ordinance
ut linked to the same zoning designations.
The HDC is responsible for the design
eview, approval or disapproval of new con-
struction requiring a building permit on de-
fined activities located within a Historic Preservation Zone, Anti-
etam Overlay zones,8 and Rural Villages identified by the current
Washington County Zoning ordinances and maps.
HDC reviews and makes recommendations on demolition
permit requests on all structures listed on the Washington County
Historical Site Survey register, and within Rural Villages. HDC has
the authority to allow or deny demolition permit requests on certain
structures located with the Antietam Overlay, and individual His-
toric Preservation zones.
The HDC reviews and makes recommendations on planning
and built environment concerns. This includes applications for zon-
ing text or map amendments, special exceptions and variances, site
plans and subdivision applications, and other proposals or legisla-
tion that affect historic preservation.
The HDC makes determination for the issuance of a Wash-
ington County property tax credit to qualifying homeowners and
businesses for preservation, rehabilitation, restoration, or appropri-
ate improvements to the exterior of the their historic structure. To
be eligible for the tax credit, qualifying structures must be identified
as a contributing structure on properties zoned as: National Register
of Historic Places (district or property); Historic Preservation (HP);
or the Antietam Overlay.
8 AO -2 Antietam approach zones design review is restricted to commercial development.
Introduction
15
The HDC reviews only exterior features and g�
does not consider any interior arrangements. Addi-
tionall , onl those structures which are visible, or
Y Y -
intended to be visible from a public way are subject �z
to review. HDC will not review in -kind repair and
in -kind replacement of exterior features considered
to be ordinary maintenance.
The HDC endorses any measures or resourc
es that elevate preservation of historic resources as = ` _
a component of the planning review process and
in the consideration of site development proposes
als. Regulations and design guidelines set minimum
standards and procedures and to create o ortuni-
pP _ ,
ties for evaluation and decisions throughout the land '-Ti.
use process. Historical preservation receives consid-
erable mention in the Washington County Com- lai
prehensive Plan. The Historical Advisory Commit- -'"
tee, the original and revised Historic Preservation
overlay zoning, the Historic District Commission, CLG status, tax Outstanding Germanic stonework with
credits and the Comprehensive Plan are all positive steps that indi- segmented arches over both the entry and
windows on this dated 1792 house known
cate Washington County supports historic preservation. as David's Friendship.
The HDC actively strives to promote the four basic compo-
nents as set forth in the Washington County Comprehensive Plan
to protect and preserve historic and cultural resources:
Regulation is a necessary component of a larger program to implement
the community's goals consistently and fairly.
Incentives are an important part of a successful preservation strategy
and are needed balance the cost/benefit/profit ratios.
Survey and Identification is specifically focused at identifying resourc-
es. A comprehensive and cohesive preservation plan cannot be effective
without the base of site knowledge provided by a complete survey.
Education recommendations provide accurate information about
available resources and sites as well as the truth about the benefits of
restoration and appropriate treatment.
9 need adoption date
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
16
Purpose of the Guidelines
circa 1840, on the
Pike at Tilghmanton
.nt example of cor-
tion with propor-
itive additions.
These design guidelines are a set of guiding principles that es-
tablish a basis for the Historic District Commissioners' recommenda-
tions, approval or denial of applications. Theses guidelines enable the
commissioners to make fair, reasonable, and consistent decisions.
These guidelines provide guidance for the protection and
enhancement of significant historic structures, sites and districts.
Additionally, the guidelines define the appropriateness of requested
changes to existing historic structures and the approval of harmo-
nious new construction within historic districts with attention to
scale, massing, proportion, materials, and height.
These guidelines will provide assurance to property owners
that their application review will be based on clear and consistent
standards rather than personal preference or taste. These guidelines
are also designed to be flexible and interpreted to accommodate each
request as it is measured against the unique circumstances of each
application, existing historic structures and the proposed activities.
These design guidelines are intended to further refine the ba-
sic principles governing new construction and changes to existing
historic structures found in the Secretary of the Interiors Standards
as they apply to the particular styles and practices found in the his-
torical architecture of Washington County Maryland.
Introduction
17
Certificate of Appropriateness
Use the design guidelines when
A Certificate of Appropriateness is required for any 'considering construction in:
construction, alteration, demolition, repair or relocation that • Historic Preservation Zones
affects the exterior appearance of any structure in the His-
toric Preservation or Antietam Overlay zone. Most build- • The Antietam Overlay
ing changes require a Certificate, including windows, siding, • Rural Villages
doors, storm windows and doors, porches, decks, garages, roof • Structures recognized by the
features, etc. Changes to the property site are also includ- National Register
ed, such as sidewalks and driveways, fences, large trees and Applying for tax credits
bushes, pools, gazebos and the like. Items mentioned in these • Activities that impact Histori-
guidelines usually require a Certificate of Appropriateness. cal Site Survey structures
Certain items are exempted from Certificates of Ap-
propriateness. The Commission does not require a Certificate
for replacement of minor items with items of the exact same
construction, materials and dimensions. In addition, general repairs
and maintenance do not require a Certificate. The Commission also
does not regulate color of painted surfaces. Existing painted surfac-
es may be cleaned, repaired, and painted again without a certificate.
Minor landscape changes such as flower beds and small bushes also
do not undergo review.
Compliance with other Codes
Building construction activities are regulated by state and local
building codes administered by the Washington County Planning De-
partment. The process of design review by the Historic District Com-
mission will not be construed to compel alterations that will conflict
with building codes, regulations, or ordinances, or prohibit any altera-
tions required to bring buildings into code compliance.
Failure to Comply
Failure to comply with the approved plans will invalidate the
Certificate of Appropriateness. Willful failure to comply with the
decisions made employing these guidelines are subject to the same
administration and enforcement procedures as described in Article
24 Administration and Article 26 Enforcement of the Washington
County Zoning Ordinance.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
Section 106 Review
Each year, the Federal Government is involved in a variety
of projects that impact historic properties. For example, the Federal
Highway Administration works with states on road improvements,
the Department of Housing and Urban Development grants funds
to cities to rebuild communities, and Federal Aviation Administra-
tion provides grant money to enlarge and improve airports.
By law, citizens have a voice
In 1966, the Federal Government created a process to when Federal actions will affect proper -
ensure that American citizens would always have the ties that qualify for the National Reg -
opportunity to learn about and influence Government ister of Historic Places, the Nation's
activities that could affect their communities' historic official list of historic properties. A
resources. I Federal Communications Commission
John L. Nau, III license for cellular tower construction
Chairman Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, might compromise the rural landscape
Washington, DC, 2002 at Antietam Battlefield, a major high-
way improvement could impact several
important historic homes, or airport
expansion could impact fragile archeological sites. These and many
other Federal actions can harm historic properties. Section 106 re-
view requires the Federal Government to examine the impact their
undertakings will have on historic properties.
Authorized by Section 106 of the National Historic Preserva-
tion Act and Article 83B Section 5-617 and 5-618 of the Maryland
Code, respectively, the federal and state preservation laws help to
ensure that cultural resources are given full consideration in the
planning of projects licensed, permitted or funded by state and fed-
eral agencies.
The Maryland Historical Trust Review and Compliance Di-
vision review over 4,000 projects a year. While the MHT partici-
pates in the Section 106 consultation process, it is the federal agency
that bears the responsibility for initiating various steps in the pro-
cess. Although the federal agency may use the services of applicants,
consultants, or designees to prepare information, analyses and rec-
ommendations, the federal agency remains legally responsible for all
required findings and determinations.
Once the responsible federal agency has determined that an
action is an "undertaking," there are three basic steps in 106 con -
Introduction
19
sultation. First, the agency must determine whether any historic
resources are present in the project area. If historic resources are
present, the agency must consult with the MHT and other inter-
ested parties to determine whether the proposed undertaking will
have an effect on the historic properties. If the effect is adverse, the
agency must notify the ACHP, and must consult with the MHT
and interested parties to discuss ways to avoid or mitigate damage
to the historic properties.
_R if _______
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The Federal Aviation Administration provid-
ed grant money to acquire 87 acres on U.S.
Route 11 east of the Hagerstown Regional
Airport. The Brumbaugh-Kendle-Grove farm-
stead on that property is identified as eligible
for the National Register of Historic Places,
mandating the FAA complete a Section 106
review to mitigate adverse effects to the
farmstead.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
20
Other Historic Agencies, Commissions &
Groups of Washington County
Historical Advisory Committee
In 2010 the Washington County Commis-
sioners awarded South Lynn the John Frye
Historical Preservation Award. Lynn bought
the Kennedy Farmhouse near Dargan in the
early 1970s and spent more than $100,000
in personal, state and federal funds restor-
ing it.
At the request of Planning and Zon-
ing, = • the Board of Commissioners voted
a�y;�`, unanimously to establish an Advisory Corn-
- - a mittee on November 21, 1967. The group
• was initially tasked with preparing a report
on the historic sites in Washington County.
•They were to list them by location, type,
and significance. The compiled informa-
tion would be used by the Planning Com-
mission for future planning. The group
completed the task and the committee con-
tinues an important role today as an advisory group for the County
Commissioners on matters relating to the historic preservation of
Washington County. Additionally, the group annually nominates
and selects persons/organizations for the "John Frye Preservation
Award".
Hagerstown Preservation District Commission
The Hagerstown Preservation District Commission is respon-
sible for guiding the City's preservation program and for reviewing
building and zoning permit activity in the historic districts and on
landmark properties. The commission members are appointed by
the Mayor and City Council for three year terms.
All members must demonstrated special interest, specific
knowledge or professional or academic training in such fields as his-
tory, architecture, architectural history, planning, archaeology, an-
thropology, curation, conservation, landscape architecture, historic
preservation, urban design or related disciplines.
The seven voting members of HHDC must be a City resi-
dent and at least five of the members must have the following quali-
fications: Two Members must be a professional architect, historian,
architectural historian, or archaeologist. Three Members must have
specific knowledge or professional or academic training in such fields
Introduction
21
as history, architecture, architectural history, plan-
ning, archaeology, anthropology, curation, conser-
vation, landscape architecture, historic preservation,
urban design or related disciplines, such as American
civilization or law. Two Non -Voting Members: Must
be a Washington County resident. Consultant (op-
tional) must be a Washington County resident
Washington County Historical
Trust
Washington County Historical Trust
was founded in 1982 as an effort to save
Wilson Bridge on Route 40. Wilson, the
first of the county's stone arch bridges, was
built in 1819 as part of the Bank Road that
would connect Baltimore with the National
Road in Cumberland. Damaged by Hurri-
cane Agnes in 1972, the bridge was placed
in the National Register of Historic Places
ten years later. It was finally slated for de-
molition because of the high cost of restoration. Route 40 had been
moved onto a new, two-lane bridge just south of Wilson Bridge
some years before. WCHT lobbied the Board of County Commis-
sioners for many months and finally got a commitment from master
mason, LeRoy Myers, to restore the structure for $100,000. WCHT
then sought grants to pay for some of the cost.
The Trust has educated the towns of Williamsport, Keedys-
ville and Boonsboro about the advantages of National Register Dis-
tricts and about grants available to support these nominations. Both
Williamsport and Keedysville now have districts and Boonsboro
has begun the process. The Trust also received a HCIF grant from
Preservation Maryland to list unincorporated Leitersburg in the
Register and has shepherded this project to completion.
Members have created a list of craftsmen who work on old
houses and a list of conservators who work on paintings, paper prod-
ucts and fabrics. Owners of old houses can share information and
learn from one another as well as from speakers who address the
Trust meetings. Members wishing to become more involved within
Wilson's Bridge over the Conococheague
Creek was the catalyst in the creation of the
Washington County Historical Trust in 1982.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
22
the county may choose to participate on one of the many volunteer
committees within the Trust.
One of the Trust's most successful projects is the publication
of the book Architectural er Historic Treasures of Washington County,
Maryland features 140 articles, including references to original land
patents, early settlers and their families, and the establishment of
towns throughout Washington County. In addition, this book in-
cludes over 500 photographs, plus 64 pages of color photos, maps
showing each location, many historic pictures, an extensive glos-
sary and index. Publication of this book was made possible by the
Washington County Historical Trust and the volunteer efforts of its
members. All profits are placed in a revolving fund for the preserva-
tion of endangered properties in Washington County, Maryland.
The Trust continues to foster preservation throughout the
county by targeting specific properties that are threatened, con-
ducting evaluations for the Maryland Historical Trust on those
county properties under MHT easements and lobbying govern-
ment bodies to support preservation. For additional information
see www.wcht.org.
Washington County Historical Society
The Washington County Historical Society (WCHS) is
a not -for-profit, private organization located at West Washington
Street, Hagerstown, Maryland. Headquarters, archives and genea-
logical library of WCHS is housed in the Miller House lower floor.
The house is open for tours, WCHS events and is available for rent
on approval.
An additional museum was added to the WCHS holdings
in 1971. The Beaver Creek School, built in 1904 and used until
1961, exhibits interpret education in a two -room school and houses
photos of many early schoolhouses throughout the county. Other
exhibits include turn -of -the century tools, hats, clothing and musi-
cal instruments. This building is open for tours by appointment.
Introduction
23
Clear Spring District Historical Association
106 Cumberland Street
Clear Spring, Maryland 21722
Boonsboro Historical S
323 North Main Street
Boonsboro, Maryland 21713-1011
(301) 432-5889
Smithsbura Historical Society. Inc.
P.O. Box 403
9 Main St., Smithsburg, Maryland 21783
(301) 824-7234
e-mail: leopards@erols.com
web: www.wc-link.org/smithsburg/HIST.HTM
Hancock Historical Society
126 West High St., Hancock, Maryland 21750 - 1138
(301) 678-7377
e-mail: hancockhistoricalsociety@gmail.com
Sharpsburg Historical Society
P. O. Box 513, Sharpsburg, Maryland
21782
email: info@historicsharpsburg.org
web: www.sharpsburghistoricalsociety.
org/
School board owns site
Morning Herald, June 19, 1976. Purchased
in 1967 by the County Board of Educa-
tion, the abandoned elegant Greek Revival
mansion was declared a relict and haunted.
Today, through the efforts of the Clear
Spring Historical Association, Plumb Grove
has been restored to it's former glory. A
testimony to the efforts of dedicated, unified
preservation organization.
Citizens want historic home preserved
InT ORA ANNE T ar<hiteclunl leatueer'� wits
P hose.. I., the n w aaaptalkrn a IarntEnve pat -
Washington County m m a Ibis area, ircludiy ee ' /
xhod maY h overlaaiy a L,bk chinuey alxts. a
�e alreaaym,betr tl,, fbreeatory spiral steirwas,
a-'a a tiw a oral ana,n.l urepbr.
ar 5p 're att�ahere ihT manklz, dour ant wirdows
w�adkm eawal�ra'. a�rnWra Inures with macs Iri
�s 4irp conetrzx•tM. bktred Gxbmrds aaa
I.rca1M en av n6 I Gem k't.hn still elb '
pucAa-sea n 1%! pa , .
bf lY reyp I It Int -
marad�¢avm- +vat«i< xry. caenwa ran dv plo.
hou+<whasfutwehu i% th,. t LodY Redy m- `ty
ddlnea pair1, 1 .0 the vdvel ie rulwe used We \ _
W an ylan f i Nlstorka. houx- she a bxteJ Ey the \ - "
Sles Smey u az`ni11<a¢[ tar near Sprtng m+Ym aM caun1 , � l ."1 k..�
r¢hltMurn and tb aasoru wno hve astM tEe acbwl 1
tiho Y i , tl i rM1 early .1a b 'use fM Ivvase a 's} :
ly family, lG hubiry n Ikw the bove to G uxd'
bf user q We xboa A parallel n�tuaum with • _ 1 C.
aPzem fa.#aye aMhYglnhappy erdly�Tisia ,o I!z i �.
niy to chow agne d Meriora fnerc hA trim S¢hool ptr
tbn. c h tlzena "dlx� 1
Mn. ]nn Cmhwa,� qcwryd b tic ka� m � �i�
.a for meaxd a r i- mepmlY Inmbased la ems.,. ,�;`
dnta, een th ram,ty seertu k aw td prvtacnon a rcma
a a,..are a the ydT¢ a be lacmties, Tae Eo-kre ><
kone a ow.a¢. w tno,a ,. r.rameni,:.
••Ae Gve a wadertul na vekla I1.,1 for "Liviy
rkus mere " sbz ssyy, "aM a Walen'i has been developed In
M a petgle Gve dreams (a IM PetiisYlvanb uMd Mr,
arIr61E 1t weuM Ee prxrkal to I center tar onNrx.
presmve whit we have and ,e mmule nadles, emerMy a (Pleb 4 eb.. A",
leel Net wnuM G • waR to ¢omp'ekevai re Dore eor
prUe<t I Ia Pe.ifl-i ter. cart lam Inr all a soot MnnWb'I^nNadMMNY dCe*, cl eyyn�a r.,..0d euMEl,haeanwnhWd
bThelarm bad Gles 010101 �S t,d '.e the must . tM 10u. aNa^e. � �NNN N. N waN� gpr..w.wallor, dry raeyrayorl' Weer Ii
It) II" a NI a.m Ines acrnde , e aG�do^.ea
hY ".Z. fkobtI. a rabve •' Yorvx which oe virtertienul nueies; par, wu end sI I ed getliaba 'colic. s. TneY toe, of rlaed; I. present fob bEe hooted. Fred K.,, Imnra lnle higeckaII M al., A p 0I 0,01akg wail is ¢x- reuar¢hed the 0,1.0 a wall
,nd.ece nnw knorm N l u�rse,radk school prlaclpl, I,... mveumr; aM several posed eM hand-sp1.1 lathes prier 11e1 should to red
NesEilLWarrav Noose inepalllkf in the hit en, ue hinb m'ned ar I:, I (m Vwwi Aeavi Kaky �ruw I "111al',
aw Eetwee'a IAn awn lnr as Mw', 1e ab a+wawnxd m rc "� y j
period ad ar4 pzihing l updenre to ... sots e. , a,h
di'ide..i a..Iy l l ln 4*w ktereel led ' gettiry Teachers, s'eee' or, lla ptodum . In II I lumizhingsr eels have been �i
r Y )Foal Iro.edi frwr. K. a..b Not tellether, eolIs moulslde Erick Oren nI eo, ideal—nd ampmeyzd Eat
Wd Ii
U I. Ftla kindery rtn PIP ils to Eigh K. a.. aM all depertmenty 51,11 1.1 ady uxtl 1oi Mk� ife a in in1 fa Fraderf<t s<baN serg,lb hortt Ire, to c up wits Mras la nx U ice,. "1 slwfenls ImenlM area
Varner std , IJI I in kW W Wwp l' lb and from or fM Muse. 1.0,0 ., were ,,Tab W'e hay¢. N the anti and bave d I a • lde.t
Maurer hisswtillh a`srttr _fl'meld<laEaw 'la•I plain in I' l 1.1041.lxme ecanomks in�quilY much ae pzsubk;' 11 1,1,, adTr* •i,,e heard hr¢tgh low meA1 ttllvid e." 'l II art zclenee and e. NT lop. ;'gt.dents aid keep IS.II 1el up a'a thm are
Ik Ilelnrieal Nrvry crMlln Part d the kovne cdfr< lden:n re reea[M In the CTumhersEvrg 'u III a thlys Ihet IIn
I!x N-wae wla .art t'•re.k sen,d'te a'utreatory larrm arched Eislory a fh laause Cocrt Nuuy aM Infeni¢wed SJnne."
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
24
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tom.
Introduction
Section
Applications for Review
Building Permit Flowchart for:
Rural Villages — Antietam Overlay — Historic Preservation Zones
Is the property within a Is the property within a Rural Village or
Historic Preservation zone? zoned Antietam Overlay [AO-1,AO-2]?
Yes No
1
Is the building permit for
New Construction?
Yes No — —
1
Is construction more than
200 square feet?
Yes No
Historic District Commission Review
Denied Approved - issues Application is forwarded
1 Certificate of Appropriateness to building review
Applicant amends plans
and reapplies
27
Application Requirements
Building permit applications at the planning department
are examined to determine if the application requires review by the
Historic District Commission. Currently, applications that require
reviews include:
1. New construction within a certified Rural Village.
2. New construction within the Antietam Overlay.
3. Any construction or renovation on a property with His-
toric Zoning Overlay.
4. All cellular telephone towers
5. Demolition permits on properties listed on the Maryland
and Washington County Historical Site Survey.
6. Requests for tax credits.
The commission hosts a public meeting on the first Wednes-
day of each month. Applicants must submit their detailed applica-
tion at least thirty (30) days before the meeting to be included on
the agenda.
The Historic District Commission makes prompt and proper
decisions to issue a Certificates of Appropriateness when suffi-
cient information is provided to determine all aspects of a design
proposal. The following information is determined the minimum
acceptable to accompany a building permit application.
1. Scale drawings and or pictures of the existing buildings
showing their current condition.
2. A scale drawing of the proposed changes to the existing
building or the new construction, showing all affected sides of
the structure. The drawings should identify all new materials
and show the actual design of a treatment rather than descrip-
tions in words alone. Dimensions should be provided.
3. A scale drawing of the property showing the location of the
existing buildings on the site and the location of the building
insert a Washington County Example here.
qa °° f'9Ra
r d,
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
The HDC reviews only exterior
features and does not consider
any interior arrangements.
additions or new construction. The relationship
to public road and other points of access shall
also be shown. The relationship of other build-
ings in the same or adjacent historic districts
should be shown.
4. Sufficient information to determine the ap-
pearance of new exterior materials either in the form of
manufacturers publications or samples. Photographs are es-
pecially helpful.
Incomplete applications will be rejected.
Applications for Review
29
Evaluation Process
The decision by the Historic District Commission of whether
to issue a Certificate of Appropriateness is complex. The process is
as individual as each property is unique. The first consideration is
the merit of the property: singularly, and then in relationship to the
setting:
• Is the building of historic significance, a local landmark,
or located in a designated historic district?
• Is the structure a significant example of its type?
• Is the structure a significant example of the work of a
noted architect, designer, or other craftsman?
• What is the current condition of this structure?
• Does the structure retain integrity of its important ele-
ments?
After considering the property, the commissioners must con-
sider the impact and long-term effects the proposed construction
or proposed alteration will have on the property and surrounding
properties.
• What is the value and design value of this structure and
adjoining structures?
• What impact will the proposed construction have on this
structure?
• What impact will the proposed construction have on the
surrounding properties?
We need a Washington
County Examplte
During
Each application and structure will be evaluated on it's own merit.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
30
Ordinary Maintenance
Routine or ordinary maintenance is
defined as work that does not alter the
exterior features of a Historic Site or
contributing structure.
Maintenance of all structures, historic
r otherwise, is strongly encouraged. Routine
laintenance of buildings in the historic pres-
rvation zone, rural villages, or properties list -
d on the Washington County Historical Site
urvey do not require review or approval by
ie Historic District Commission, a certifi-
ate of appropriateness, or a building permit.
Ordinary or routine maintenance is work that does not al-
ter the exterior features of a Historic Site or contributing structure
within a historic district. Routine maintenance may include but is
not necessarily limited to the following:
1. repair or replacement of roofs, gutters, siding, external
doors and windows, trim lights, and other appurtenant fix-
tures with like materials of like design
2. landscaping
3. paving repair using like materials of like design
4. painting or repainting a non -masonry surface or struc-
ture
5. replacing window panes, roofing slates, tiles, or shingles
with like material and like design.
6. adding storm doors, windows, awnings, and air condition-
ers to existing windows on residential structures.
7. adding antennae, skylights, and solar collectors in loca-
tions not visible from a public street.
8. minor additions or deletions to the structure which will
not substantially change the architectural character of the
structure or which are generally hidden from public view.
9. construction of accessory buildings less than 100 square
feet in size
Ordinary maintenance can include activities to prevent or
correct deterioration, decay or damage to a structure or any part
thereof as long as repairs or replacement are of like material and
design. Nothing in these guidelines shall be construed to prevent
Applications for Review
31
ordinary maintenance or repair which does not involve a change of
design, material, or of the outward appearance of a building.
As ordinary maintenance is not considered new construc-
tion, the cost associated with maintenance work is not eligible for
tax credits.
need a good example of a historic home
getting ordinary maintenance that does not
require a building permit.
_rte
1111114 liii!
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
Is the structure within a
Historic Preservation
zone?
Yes No
i
Is the structure on the
Historical Site Survey?
Demolition Review Process
Yes No
1
Is the structure in a Rural Village or
Antietam Overlay [AO-1,AO-2]?
Yes
Is the structure
over 50 years old?
Yes
Historic District Commission Reviev
Denied Approved
Structure is determined Structure is determined
"Preferably Preserved" beyond redemption or
1 not significant
Applicant demolishes
the structure anyway
because the piddly
county fine is only $100
which is very sad
No
Demolition permit
is issued
33
The Last Resort - Demolition
Demolition of significant buildings, structures, sites, objects,
or other historic resources within Washington County is discour-
aged. Given the irreversible nature of demolition, full deliberation
of all alternatives before action is essential. State enabling legislation
and county ordinances provide that an application for a certificate
of appropriateness authorizing demolition of a building, structure,
or site may not be denied unless the State Historic Preservation
Officer has made a determination that the property has statewide
significance.
Alternatives to Demolition
An applicant willing to preserve their property that is listed,
or may be eligible for listing, on the county or Maryland State Sur-
vey of Historic Sites, or the National Register of Historic Places,
may be granted either one or two additional lots by the Planning
Commission above that allowed by applicable zoning, or be grant-
ed an exemption from the excise tax on one building permit. The
HDC is responsible for determining the historic or architectural
value of preserving such properties to ensure that the developer is
not attempting to gain an advantage in additional lots for simply
preserving a neglected property with little significance.
Demolition Planning
In considering a request for a certificate of appropriateness to
demolish a structure, the commission will weigh the impact of the
proposed demolition on the overall character of the district, neigh-
borhood, and region, as well as adjacent historic buildings. In addi-
tion, the commission will consider whether any specific use for the
site has been proposed to mediate the loss of the historic structure.
A site plan illustrating any proposed development or introduction of
plantings following demolition should be developed and submitted
to the commission at the time the request for a certificate of appro-
priateness is made.
Prior to application, the county requires an environmental
study to determine any significant adverse effect on the environ-
ment. A demolition may be determined to have a significant ad -
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
34
The demolition of a historical resource
is now determined to be
cultural, and environmental
to the surrounding community.
verse effect on the environment, requiring
the preparation of an Environmental Impact
Report (EIR).
Before authorized demolition of a
property, the owner is responsible for creating
a detailed, accurate record of the structure
through documents including photographs
and measured drawings as specified below. Copies of the documents
will be kept in the commission's files with copies forwarded to the
Maryland Historical Trust.
• Before demolition, work with the HDC, and the planning de-
partment to pursue all alternatives to demolition.
• Before demolition, record significant structures through photo-
graphs and/or measured drawings as specified by the HDC.
• Before demolition, work with the HDC and other interested
parties to salvage usable architectural materials and features.
• Before demolition, submit a site plan to the commission illus-
trating proposed site development or plantings to follow demoli-
tion.
.• During demolition, ensure the safety of any adjacent properties
and historic resources. Also, during and after demolition, protect
trees on the site from damage due to compaction of the soil by
equipment or materials.
• After demolition, clear the site promptly and thoroughly.
• After demolition, plant or develop the site promptly as approved
in the proposed site plan.
Demolition Permit Request
Early consultation with the Planning Department's Staff can
help you identify issues, alternatives, problems, and solutions to your
proposal before it is submitted for review. If you have any questions,
call the Planning Department (240) 313-2400
If the structure to be demolished is listed on the :
• Washington County or Maryland Historical Site Survey Inven-
tory
• On a Historical Preservation Zone property
Applications for Review
35
• or is older than fifty (50) years old and lo-
cated within a
Rural Village or the Antietam Overlay
Applicant must provide the following documents
with the permit request (seven copies) -
• Pictures showing all sides of the subject
building
• Interior and exterior architecture
• Character defining features such as staircas-
es, moldings, light fixtures, trim patterns, etc.
• Windows and window details
• Basement (if applicable)
• All photographs must be in color and at least 4" x 6" in size
and have excellent clarity
• Scaled drawings of all levels of the structure
• A detailed site plan indicating location of structure and the
relationship to all surrounding structures.
• A record of the buildings history, including previous own-
ers, early photographs, and local lure
• Applicants plan for the recycling of waste generated
• A report analyzing the following alternatives (listed in de-
scending order of preference) as to their feasibility. The report
shall consist of thorough, deliberative analyses of each of the
alternatives, explaining why each alternative is or is not feasible.
1. Redesigning the project to avoid any impact to the
structure or its setting;
2. Incorporating the structure into the overall design
of the project;
3. Converting the structure into another use (adaptive
reuse);
4. Relocating the structure on the property;
5. Relocating the structure to another property;
6. Salvaging from the structure historically significant
architectural features and building materials;
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
36
In New Castle County, Del-
aware, the county attorney
is authorized by ordinance
"to take immediate action
prosecute those responsible"
for the demolition of struc-
tures determined to have
historic significance prior to
the issuance ofa demolition
permit. In addition, build-
ing permits for the parcel
affected may be withheld
for a period of one to three
years.
Violators of the demoli-
tion ordinance in Monroe,
Connecticut, may be sub-
ject to a fine amounting to
the greater of one thousand
dollars or the assessed value
of the property for each vio-
lation.
In Highland Park, Illinois,
a person who violates the
demolition review ordi-
nance may be assessed afine
equal to "90 percent of the
fair market value of the cost
of the replacement of such
regulated structure. "
Newton, Massachusetts, au-
thorizes the imposition of a
$300 fine and two year ban
on the issuance of a build -
7. Documenting the structure as a whole and its in-
dividual architectural features in photographs, draw-
ings, and/or text.
Demolition Review
Demolition review is a legal tool that provides the Historic
District Commission with the means to ensure that potentially sig-
nificant buildings and structures are not demolished without notice
and some level of review. This process creates a safety net for historic
resources to ensure that buildings and structures worthy of preser-
vation are not inadvertently demolished.
Demolition review does not always prevent the demolition of
historically significant buildings or structures. Rather, as the name
suggests, it allows for review of applications for demolition permits for
a specific period of time to assess a building's historical significance.
Failure to Comply or Willful Disregard
The county attorney is authorized by to take immediate ac-
tion prosecute those responsible for the demolition of structures
determined to have historic significance prior to the issuance of a
demolition permit. Failure to comply with all requirements for se-
curing a demolition permit will result in a minimum $100 fine,
and all building permits for the affected and common surrounding
parcels may be withheld for a period of one to three years.
If the structure is destroyed by fire during the one-year de-
molition delay process, said structure will be rebuilt in kind by the
application at their expense. Therefore, it is highly recommended
that applicant maintain sufficient fire replacement insurance dur-
ing the one-year demolition delay.
If the structure is damaged by neglect or vandalized during
the one-year demolition delay process, and afterwards said structure
is determined to be "preferably preserved." All damage and neglect
will be restored to it's original state at the applicants expense.
Demolition by Ne
The issue of demolition by neglect is an especially difficult
matter to address. It appears to be among the largest deterrents to
Applications for Review
37
the retention of historic resources. A property owner's failure to
maintain a historic property properly can result in its eventual de-
molition due to the loss of its structural integrity.
Such irresponsible treatment of historic structures conflicts
directly with the goals of the County in preserving and establish-
ing the historic districts. Consequently, demolition by neglect may
result in enforcement action by the Inspections Department under
Part 10, Chapter 6, Article J of the City Code of Ordinances, enti-
tled "Demolition by Neglect of Historic Landmarks and Structures
Within Historic Overlay Districts." This article specifies standards
under which deterioration may be evaluated to determine if a struc-
ture is undergoing demolition by neglect. If so, enforcement may be
initiated to require the repair of the property.
Emergency Demolitions
The Washington County Building Inspector may issue a de-
molition permit at any time in the event of imminent and substan-
tial danger to the health or safety of the public due to deteriorating
conditions. Additionally, any structure that has been substantially
burned or damaged by an event not within the landowner's control
with more than 50 percent of the structure affected may also qualify
for emergency demolition, regardless of the building's significance.
Prior to doing so, the Building Inspector shall inspect the
building and document, in writing, the findings and reasons requir-
ing an emergency demolition, a copy of which shall be forwarded
immediately to the Historic District Commission. Before allowing
emergency demolition, the Building Inspector shall make every ef-
fort to inform the Chairperson of the Commission of his intention
to allow demolition before he issues a permit for emergency demoli-
tion.
Delay of Demolition
The "Demolition Delay Provision" is a relatively new pro-
cedure that is rapidly becoming adopted in many municipalities
throughout in the United States. It's purpose is to prevent the de-
molition of buildings or structures that have been determined by
the local historic commission as valuable contributing structures.
Presently, Washington County has not adopted this valuable pro-
ing permit against anyone
who demolishes a histori-
cally significant building
or structure without first
obtaining and fully com-
plying with the provisions
of a demolition permit is-
sued in accordance with
its demolition review ordi-
nance.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
The demolition of older residential structures edure, but it's goals and the process are cer-
and commercial stores is one of the greatest ainly worthy of review and consideration for
threats to Washington County's historic legacy.
he future.
While the demolition of unsafe, heavily deterio- If the local commission find that the
rated, fire damage structures is necessary, many tructure should be "preferably preserved,"
structurally sound houses of a unique and his- he demolition permit may be delayed for a
toric nature have been bulldozed for the con- eriod that ranges from three months to one
venience of development without due consider- ear. The delay of a demolition permit allows
ation of the long term impact of the county. DC, preservation organizations, concerned
itizens, and others may explore alternatives to
emolition, such as finding a purchaser for the
structure or raising money for its rehabilitation. This provision to
delay demolition is an alternative to the authority to deny demoli-
tion permits.
1. Demolition delay validates the right of the community to
become involved in the disposition of its common heritage.
The preservation community hold the common belief that
historic buildings, as the embodiment of a community's his-
tory, are part of the broad public trust and that the loss of
these structures has an adverse impact on the quality of life
for the whole community. In upholding a community's right
to be beautiful as part of the notion of the public good, the
courts have established that issues of beauty, and by interpre-
tation preservation, are not solely the domain of the property
owner.
2. Demolition Delay must establish specific and easily veri-
fiable criteria by which buildings will be determined to be
subject to the ordinance, and the procedures which will be
followed by those requesting a demolition permit and those
who might wish to file objections. Ordinances can define
those buildings that are subject to the ordinance by age, sur-
vey or National Register listing, location within the commu-
nity, size or a combination of these. The procedure to be fol-
lowed by both property owners and objectors should provide
some form of public notification and allow sufficient time for
objectors to comment with encouraging unreasonable delays
Applications for Review
for the property owner.
3. Demolition Delay encourages a dialogue between the par-
ties rather than cast them as adversaries. Dialogue makes the
parties partners investing each in a negotiated outcome with
the possibility of a better project. Objectors have the chance
to offer viable alternatives; property owners can take advan-
tage of new and creative ideas about historic properties if
confrontation is avoided. By requiring dialogue, a good ordi-
nance can offer the opportunity for a win -win solution.
4. Demolition Delay establishes the expectation of perfor-
mance from the objector. The best ordinances require that
objectors be supported with alternatives or that such alterna-
tives be actively pursued. Preservationists need to recognize
that even historic buildings must exist within the context of
present-day uses and economics, and that merely prevent-
ing demolition does not save buildings. It is people who save
buildings by using and maintaining them. By invoking a de-
lay of demolition ordinance preservationists must be willing
to become part of a solution team and not simply stand on
the sidelines wringing our hands and moaning about historic
significance and integrity.
5. Finally, an effective ordinance should have teeth. Although
penalties are allowed by the state enabling legislation, this is
the one area where the county officials have the opportunity
to demonstrate their willingness to promote preservation
6. The demolition delay period may be waived by the HDC
if the applicant can demonstrate "economic hardship." With
the consideration of economic hardship claims, the burden
of proof rests on the applicant to show that retention of the
property is not economically viable and the applicant must
set forth specific relevant information to make his or her
case.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
The First Battle
After four years of a very
heated public battle over the
fate of the Rochester House,
the record high temperatures
in August of 1956 made the
situation even more intense
for Hagerstown Mayor Win-
slow F. Burhan.
The stately two-story 18th
century brick Georgian man-
sion on the south-west corner
of Prospect and West Washing-
ton Streets was for sale. Con-
cerned locals and members of
the historical society wanted
the house preserved. Devel-
opers wanted the almost one
acre lot in downtown for devel-
opment.
Built by Colonel Nathaniel
Rochester in 1789, Rochester
lived in the house for only a
few years before moving north
to Monroe County, New York
where he founded the town
of Rochester, New York. The
grand old house had been oc-
cupied continuously up about
1952. After the Cushwa fam-
ily moved out, the aging home
rapidly fell into disrepair. Oc-
cupying almost an acre of land
just two blocks west of Hager-
stown's town square, it was
a miracle that the house had
stood uncontested for over
167 years.
Former Mayor Herman L.
Mills briefly considered the
corner for a gas stations, but
met with such opposition that
he immediately withdrew his
offer. With few interested par-
ties, the realtor packaged the
Rochester House and the con-
tiguous Findley House together
and offered the two lots to the
City of Hagerstown as a site for
a much needed parking lot.
Members of the local Histori-
cal Society were outraged. In
one of the county's first collec-
tive, organized stands for pres-
ervation, prominent society
members ask the Mayor to ap-
point a commission
of twelve "leading
citizens" to inves-
tigate the reported
plans for the park-
ing lot.
While plenty of people ap-
preciated the architecture and
historic nature of the house,
the idea of preserving a struc-
ture for posterity was a con-
cept new to almost everyone.
In the 1950s, just as today, an
acre of land situated on a main
thoroughfare has a myriad of
development possibilities - but
not while occupied by an aging
relict.
The battle over the fate of
the Rochester House raged
in the newspaper and behind
closed doors for four more
years. With no local, state or
federal resources to rely upon,
concerned members of the His-
torical Society hosted fund
raising events. Some called
their efforts to raise $50,000
a "waste of time and money. If
these people want to do some-
thing good for the community,
let them use this money for the
Goodwill Ambulance Service."
One resident of Greencastle
informed the newspaper that
she would do all her shopping
in downtown Hagerstown if
only a parking lot would be
built on the Rochester lot. "The
younger generation does not
Don't it always seem to go
That you don't know what you got 'til it's gone
They paved paradise and put up a parking lot
Big Yellow Taxi by Joni Mitchell
care about the Rochester House
and neither do a lot of the older
residents of Hagerstown ... it is
about time Hagerstown starts
to move forward with the times
instead of standing still as it
has done for so long."
Worn down by four years of
battle, the expected fireworks
never developed at the Hager-
stown town council meeting
on August 3, 1956. The chair-
woman of the Rochester House
Committee sat alone. No one
else appeared to opposed the
demolition. One retailer at the
meeting hoped the new park-
ing lot would ready before the
next Christmas season.
Unable to legally sell any part
of the house, in the days before
the scheduled demolition the
Mayor publicly told residents to
"help themselves" to the house
parts. Locals took advantage of
the offer to collect a bit of local
history and removed the win-
dows, mantels, hinges, doors,
and doorknobs. They even dug
the shrubbery from the lawn.
On Tuesday September 5,
1956 a wrecking ball smashed
the Rochester House to kin-
dling - the city of Hagerstown
lost an irreplaceable treasure
Ah
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';y =_ ��, � .• �� i-- �►�!+ ,#ice a
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_ Fr
r i s7
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LIL
ax Credit I-'rnar�
Property
Available Tax Credit
and
• Tax Credits may be combined. For example, a his-
toric commercial business in the National Register
Town of Williamsport may be eligible for 55% tax
credits
• All work MUST be pre -approved and meet the Sec-
retary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation
• With few exceptions, only exterior work is consid-
ered for tax credits
• Taxpayers are urged to seek the advice of a qualified
tax professional before proceeding with any tax credit
rehabilitation project
• Policies change frequently and funding may be subject
to legislative constraints. Check with the Maryland
Historical Trust for the latest information on State
and Federal Tax Credit.
20% Federal Tax Credit
• Administered by the National Park Service (U. S. Dept.
of the Interior) and the Maryland Historical Trust
• Qualifying rehabilitation expenses must exceed the
greater of $5,000 or the adjusted basis of the building
• The tax credit is deducted from applicant's Federal In-
come Tax
20% State Tax Credit
• Administered by the Maryland Historical Trust
• Qualifying rehabilitation expenditures in a 24 -month
period must exceed $5,000
• The Tax Credit is deducted from the amount of Maryland
State Income Taxes that you owe for the calendar year in
which the project was completed. If you owe less than the
tax credit in income taxes that year, you will receive a re-
fund check from the Comptroller of Maryland
10% County Tax Credit
• Administered by the County Planning Office
• Qualified rehabilitation, restoration, or preservation
• The tax credit is deducted from applicants local Real
Estate Tax for the tax year immediately following the
work. Any unused portion of the tax credit, may be car-
ried forward for up to 5 tax years
5% County Tax Credit
• Administered by the County Planning Office
• Qualified new construction attached to an existing his-
toric structure
• The tax credit is deducted from applicants local Real
Estate Tax for the tax year immediately following the
work. Any unused portion of the tax credit, may be car-
ried forward for up to 5 tax years.
M
Historic Tax Credit Programs
The Historic Preservation Tax Incentives program is a suc-
cessful, cost-effective community revitalization program for com-
mercial historic districts and an incentive for private homeowners
to correctly rehabilitate and maintain important historic structures.
The availability of the federal, state, and local tax credits has encour-
aged investment in historic resources — in urban cores, residential
neighborhoods, small towns, and private residences throughout the
state. These programs preserve historic buildings, stimulates private
investment, create jobs, and revitalizes communities.
At the Federal level, tax credit programs have leveraged over
$58 billion in private investment to preserve and reuse 37,000 his-
toric properties since 1976. The Historic Preservation Tax Credit
Program benefits the owner, the occupants, and the community
by:
• Encouraging protection of landmarks through the promo-
tion, recognition, and designation of historic structures
• Increasing the value of the rehabilitated property and re-
turning underutilized structures to the tax rolls
• Upgrading downtowns and neighborhoods and often in-
creasing the amount of available housing within the com- it might be good to include some
munity. local statics on the WC tax pro-
gram. How many dollars credits
Federal programs are administered by National Park Ser- since inception, how many prop -
vice and the Internal Revenue Service in partnership with Mary- erties affects?
land Historical Trust since 1976. The State of Maryland has offered
tax incentive programs since January 1, 1998, administered by the
Maryland Historical Trust. Important Tips!
Washington County saw the
benefits of offering a local Contact your local government for eligibility requirements
tax credit program to quali- ALWAYS seek approval for your plans prior to starting work!
fying homeowner beginning Generally speaking, work that is substantially completed
in 1991 and offers tax credits without prior approval is not eligible for Federal, State, or
on both historic rehabilita- local tax credits.
tion and new construction Be sure your contractor(s) are aware that you are applying
when attached to an existing for Tax Credits/Freezes and check all change -orders or plan
historic structure, revisions with you and the HDC first.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
44
Tax Credit Frequently Asked Questions
Wooburn Manor, circa 1815 just south of
Downsville, Maryland. Several years ago this
stately Georgian home was unoccupied and
in an advanced state of deterioration. After
purchase, the owners applied for and re-
ceived designation onto the National Register
of Historic Places and voluntarily established
a local "historic preservation" or HP zone.
These designations allowed the homeowner
to take advantage of all available local, state,
and federal tax credit programs.
What is a Tax Credit? A tax credit
lowers the tax owed by an individual. A
tax credit differs from a tax deduction
in that an income tax deduction lowers
the amount of income subject to taxa-
tion, while a tax credit is a dollar -for -
dollar reduction in income tax liability.
In other words, a tax credit of one dol-
lar reduces the amount of income tax
owed by one dollar. Taxpayers are urged
to seek the advice of a qualified tax pro-
fessional before proceeding with any tax
credit rehabilitation project.
Is my property eligible for Tax Credits? Your historic struc-
tures must have Washington County "Historic Preservation" HP
zoning , or be listed on the National Register of Historic Places, or
noted as a "contributing structure" within a National Register of
Historic Places district or town, or.
Is my rental property or commercial building eligibles
TaxV Credits? Income producing historic properties are eligible for
the most tax credits - up to 55% of the qualifying rehabilitation
investment. Again, to be eligible, the historic structures must have
Washington County Historic Preservation Zoning (HP), or be listed
on the National Register of Historic Places, or noted as a "contrib-
uting structure" within a National Register of Historic Places dis-
trict or town. The federal credits are limited to income -producing,
depreciable property only. The property may be either commercial
or residential rental property. A taxpayer's personal residence would
not qualify for the federal credit.
Tax Credits
45
My property is listed on the State and County Historic Site
Survey, am I eligible for Tax Credits? No, almost all historic
properties in Washington County are listed on the Maryland His-
torical Site Survey and the Washington County Historical Sire Sur-
vey. These site survey's were created solely to identify local historic
resources within each county.
How do I get my proierty zoned HP so Igualiy for
credograms? Any property owner may petition the Board
of County Commissioners to establish an HP overlay zone on their
property. The HP District is an overlay zone that indicates the pres-
ence of an historic site, structure or district, that has been deter-
mined to be of significance to the heritage of Washington County.
The designation of HP District is voluntary, property owners
must apply to the county for this zoning overlay with the under-
standing that this designation imposes additional guidelines during
construction or modification of new or existing structures
on the property, now and in the future. In simple terms
— if ou desire the financial benefit of tax credits ou
J AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE ZONING MAP
agree to allow the county to monitor any rehabillta- FOR WASHINGTON COUNTY, MARYLAND
tion, restoration, or construction activities on your
historic property and certify that it is completed cor-
rectly. You receive the immediate financial incentive
of a tax credit and the county has preserved an impor-
tant historic property for the future.
The Planning Commission in conjunction
with the County Commissioners determine if your
property is eligible, and the Historic District Com-
mission certify that all rehabilitation, restoration, and
new construction meets the guidelines established by
the county. For the procedures and regulations to ap-
ply for a HP District on your property see the Wash-
ington County Ordinance on Historic Preservation
Zoning Sections 20.4 through 20.8 and Washington
County Zoning Amendments Section 27.1. or contact
L
A completed amendment to Washington
County zoning adding a HP zone to a local
historic property.
ORDINANCE NO. 055-09-03
(RZ-08-003)
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 27.1 of the Zoning Ordinance for
Washington County, Maryland (Zoning Ordinance), Ronald and Jean Dolan
(Applicants) have applied to the Board of County Commissioners for Washington
County, Maryland (Board), for a zoning reclassification and a zoning map
amendment of property more particularly identified in the Ordinance
Amendment Application found in the record herein.
The Application has been designated as Case No. RZ-08-003. Sect
ion public hearing was held on the application pursuant to 27.2 of the
Ordinance, where the Applicants presented evidence and information relating to
the zoning reclassification.
The Board has considered all information presented at the public hearing, the
recommendation of the Planning Commission, and each of those factors set forth
in Maryland Code Ann., Article 66B, Section 4.05 and Section 27.3 of the Zoning
Ordinance.
The Board has made factual findings and conclusions of law which arc set
forth in the attached "Decision." The findings of fact and conclusions of law are
incorporated herein.
THER
EFORE, EREFORE, BE IT ENACTED AND ORDAINED BY THE BOARD
OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF WASHINGTON COUNTY, MARYLAND,
that the property which is the subject of Case No. RZ-08-003 be, and hereby is,
reclassified from the Environmental Conservation (EC) to Environmental
Conservation with the Historic Preservation (HP) Overlay classification.
IT IS FURTHER ENACTED AND ORDAINED that the official Zoning Map
be, and hereby is, amended accordingly. The Director of Planning and
Community Development shall cause the Zoning Map to be amended pursuant
to thsOrdinance.
th e Was ington County P1 anning Department at 80
W. Baltimore Street, Hagerstown, or call (240) 313-
2430.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
Does my house or communitygualiyf
the National Register of Historic Places?
The National Register is the nation's official list
of buildings, structures, objects, sites, and dis-
tricts deemed worthy of preservation for their
significance to the cultural heritage of the na-
tion. If your home or neighborhood is fifty years
old or older and you think it has historical or ar-
chitectural significance, you may wish to inves-
tigate your options. For towns or communities,
the Maryland Historical Trust often sponsors
grant programs that offer financial assistance in
this undertaking.
As this designation is the highest level of
historic recognition in the nation and requires
significant documentation we recommend you
first consult an architectural historian. Wash-
ington County is fortunate to have several pro-
fessional architectural historians who have all
successfully nominated local landmarks to the National Register.
The Washington County Historical Trust can provide you with a
listing of architectural historians.
My old house is in a National Register Town. what rules
does the government impose on me? There are no Federal laws
or regulations that limit what private property owners can do to
their properties, including properties listed in the National Register
of Historic Places. The only situations in which private property
owners may be impacted by Federal laws and regulations are when
the owners have applied for or received a Federal Rehabilitation Tax
Credit (within the last five years) OR require a permit, license, or
funding from a Federal agency.
Tax Credits
47
What Tax Credit does Washington County off, r? Qualify-
ing rehabilitation will be credited ten percent (10%) of the owner's
expense for up to the total amount of County real estate property
taxes. A credit of five percent (5%) of the owner's expense will be
allowed for new construction attached to an existing historic struc-
ture. The credit will be allowed for the tax year immediately follow-
ing the work or any portion thereof is completed, and any unused
portion of this tax credit, may be carried forward for as many as five
tax years, after which the credit will lapse.
Who do I contact for more Information? Tax credit appli-
cations and zoning amendments information may be obtained at
the Washington County Planning Department at 80 W. Baltimore
Street, Hagerstown, or call (240) 313-2430.
"Rehabilitation" means the process of returning a structure to a state
of utility, through repair or alteration, which makes possible an effi-
cient use while preserving those portions and features of the structure
and its site and environment which make the structure and its site and
environment historically, architecturally, or culturally significant.
"Rehabilitation" does not include an alteration which is primarily
remodeling.'
1 Amendments to the Heritage Structure Rehabilitation Tax Credit Program regulations adopted by the Maryland
Historical Trust in January 2005.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
Washington County Historic Tax Credits
Washington County offers
10% tax credit for exteri-
or restoration orpreserva-
tion to any contributing
structure within a recog-
nized historic district, or
any historic structure list-
ed on the Maryland His-
torical Site Survey within
the boundaries of the An-
tietam Overlay Zone.
A additional tax credital
of 5% will be given for
architecturally compat-
ible exterior new con-
struction when attached
to a contributing struc-
ture within a recognized
historic district, or any d
historic structure listed
on the Maryland Histori-
cal Site Survey within the y
boundaries of the Anti-
etam Overlay Zone.
I
To encourage the restoration and preservation of historic
properties, in 1991, the Washington County Commissioners ap-
proved an ordinance creating a historic preservation tax credit pro-
gram. Owner documented expenses for exterior restoration or pres-
ervation work is eligible for ten-precent tax credit, plus five -percent
(5%) tax credit for qualifying new construction The tax credit is
deducted from the property owner's Washington County real prop-
erty taxes.
The Washington County historic preservation tax credit may
be used for many different types of projects. The project can be
as simple as repairing a roof in -kind to engaging in a large scale
restoration project. The credit can also be used for diverse types of
structures, not just houses. Tax credit recipients may restore historic
garages, outbuildings, barns, and greenhouses, in addition to main-
tenance and restoration work on their residences.
Historic District Commission Review
One of the duties of the Historic District Commission is to
review and approve, or disapprove, county tax credit applications. To
ensure a trouble -free experience, it is highly recommended, but not
manadatory, that the application be reviewed by HDC in advance of
any work preformed.
The HDC will verify that all work performed was completed
in accordance with the Design Guidelines for Historic Preservation in
Washington County as set forth in Chapter 7 of this publication. The
HDC will not review any incomplete applications. Additionally,
they will only approve tax credits for work if proved by supporting
financial documentation. Save your receipts! The HDC has a fidu-
ciary responsibility to the citizens of Washington County to ensure
tax credits are correctly and judiciously applied. Lack of supporting
receipts and documentation will disallow your application.
The HDC may approve all, or part, of an applicants request.
Approval by the Maryland Historical Trust for Federal or State tax
credits does not guarantee an automatic approval by HDC. The
HDC will approve or disapprove the work based on the current ap-
proved county design guidelines which may differ slightly from the
State or Federal guidelines.
Tax Credits
49
That portion of the tax credit application approved by the
HDC is forwarded to the Washington County Treasurer's Office.
The approved tax credit is applied to a property owner's tax bill.
Any unused portion of this tax credit may be carried forward for
as many as five years. If the property were subsequently removed
from the HP district, any unused portion of the tax credit would
immediately lapse. A property not listed within a HP district at the
time the work is undertaken is not eligible for the preservation tax
credit.
Eligible Work and Expenses
The Washington County Tax Credit is given for projects that
"return a structure to a state of utility, through repair or altera-
tion, which makes possible an efficient use while preserving those
portions and features of the structure and its site and environment
which make the structure and its site and environment histori-
cally, architecturally, or culturally significant."
Projects that are primarily remodeling or are interior rehabili-
tation are not eligible to receive county tax credits. Owners contem-
plating major rehabilitation or significant changes to their historic
property are strongly advised to consult with a preservation architect
early in their project. A list of qualified preservation architects is avail-
able from the Washington County Historical Trust or the Maryland
Historical Trust.
To be eligible for for the Tax Credit all work must:
• Be exterior in nature
• Performed by a licensed contractor
• Be certified by the HDC as contributing to the restora-
tion or preservation of the historic structure
If you need clarification on whether your project is ordinary
maintenance, preservation or restoration, please contact the Wash-
ington County Planning Staff at 240-313-2430. Examples of eli-
gible projects could include (but are not limited to):
• Repairing historic windows and doors or replacing
deteriorated features with compatible new materials
The HDC will verify that
all work performed was
completed in accordance
with the Design Guidelines
for Historic Preservation in
Washington County as set
forth in Chapter 7 of this
publication.
IL Tax Credit Tips
Only exterior work is ap-
plicable for tax credits.
Prepare a plan and keep
precise records. Advise
architects and contractors
of your intent to apply for
tax credits. Ask them to
price each element of the
job separately so eligible
and non -eligible work are
easily identifiable.
• Significant repair of or replacing roofs to original closely examine this list for
• Repairs to framing or structural systems accuracy...
• HVAC systems
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
50
• Costs for architectural, engineering, consultants' ser-
vices and exploratory demolition necessary to prepare
the application
• Chimney repairs
• Exterior painting
• Exterior drains and potentially other drainage issues
if affecting structural integrity
• Gutter replacement
• Repairing architectural trim or ornament
• Repairing and maintaining historic outbuildings
such as barns and garages
• Repointing brick or stone foundations or chimneys
(does not apply to walls that have never been pointed,
i.e. dry -laid brick and stone walls)
• Restoring a documented feature such as a dormer or
porch that was previously altered or removed
• Uncovering or repairing original siding
• New historically compatible construction when at-
tached to existing historic structure
Not Eligible for Tax Credits
• Annual or routine termite control
• Cleaning: windows, chimney, gutters, or siding
• Driveway and sidewalk repairs unless they have historic
significance
• Electrical work
• Equipment or tool purchases
• Interior work of any kind
• Installation of new non -historic features
• Interior fireplace repairs or chimney cleaning
• Landscaping, yard work
• Permit fees
• Professional services (architects, color consultants, engi-
neers)
• Replacement windows or doors except in rare circum-
stances with prior HDC approval
• Snow and ice removal
• Tree removal or tree services unless the tree touches the
Tax Credits
51
house or threatens structural integrity
• Value of owners' project time
Tax Credits Guidelines
Replacement of historic or non -historic features should be
completed in -kind, i.e. wood to wood, slate to slate. Introduction of
new materials requires HDC approval and may not be eligible for the
credit —unless the new material or design is a restoration to the prop-
erty's primary period of significance or if the original material was
faulty. In either case, the project should still receive a prior approval
Projects that restore a historic portion of a property to its orig-
inal appearance using acceptable documentation, i.e. historic photo-
graphs, forensic evidence on the building itself, drawings/paintings,
or diary entries, to name a few sources, will be considered eligible.
Alternately, work that replaces a historic feature may not meet eligi-
bility for a preservation tax credit. This is especially true when the
new feature differs from the original in materials or design.
When obtaining receipts for work done, make certain to
have your contractor price out each element of the job. Some items
may not be eligible and you may lose the entire credit if you fail to
provide sufficient information. Be sure to itemize receipts. If you are
not available for the HDC review of the application a tax credit may
be disallowed due to lack of clarification.
When purchasing equipment or supplies for a job, please
note on the receipt or a separate page attached to the receipt exactly
what the items are and what they were used for in your project. This
is only necessary if you purchased items for the contractor and the
supplies were used for multiple on -going projects.
Make certain to enclose a paid -in -full receipt or a cancelled
check with your application. Also, be sure to include a proposal or a
scope of work from the contractor who completed the work clearly
stating what eligible exterior work was done on your property.
Contact the Washington County Planning Office as soon
as you contemplate undertaking a county historic preservation tax
credit project. They will help guide you through the process and
recommend sources for good historic preservation practice. You
may also want to read the Design Guidelines for Historic Preservation
in Chapter 7 of this publication. These guidelines provide excellent
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
52
information about good historic preservation practice and are the
reference guidelines by which the HDC will review each project
and ultimately make a decision.
Historic Preservation Tax Credits Aoolication
Insert local application
Local Succesful projects:
• Woburn Manor, Dam #4 Road major restoration work
• Old Forge Farm, Old Forge Road, slate roof replacement
• NEED MORE EXAMPLES - Photos would be great!!!!
•
Tax Credits
53
Maryland Tax Credits
The Maryland Sustainable Communities Tax Credit Pro-
gram is administered by the Maryland Historical Trust and pro-
vides Maryland income tax credits based on a percentage of the
qualified capital costs expended in the rehabilitation of a structure
for the following types of projects:
• 20% credit for "certified historic structures" that are own-
er -occupied, single-family residences
• 20% credit for "certified historic structures" that are com-
mercial buildings
• 25% credit for "certified historic structures" that are high-
performance commercial buildings
• 10% credit for non -historic, "qualified rehabilitated struc-
tures
Additionally, the Maryland Historical Trust offers low -interest
rehabilitation loans to users of the Heritage Preservation Tax Credit
Program. All questions on the Maryland Historic Tax Credit program
should be directed to the Maryland Historical Trust 410 514-7000
As the requirements, terms, and funding for Maryland Tax
Credits change, please refer the Maryland Historical Trust website
for the most recent information on State tax credits:
http://mht.maryland.gov/taxcredits.html
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
54
Federal Historic Preservation Tax Credits
Jointly managed by the National Park Service and the Inter-
nal Revenue Service, Federal Historic Preservation Tax Incentives
are administered in partnership with the Maryland State Historic
Preservation Office, and reward private investment in rehabilitating
historic buildings. To qualify for a Federal Historic Preservation Tax
Incentive, buildings must be income -producing properties listed on
the National Register of Historic Places, and work must be done in
accordance with the Secretary of the Interior's Standards. Applica-
tions for the Federal Tax Credit are due in advance of the work.
Under the provisions of the Tax Reform Act of 1986, a 20%
tax credit is available for the substantial rehabilitation of commer-
cial, agricultural, industrial, or rental residential buildings that are
certified as historic. The credit may be subtracted directly from fed-
eral income taxes owed by the owner. The U.S. Internal Revenue
Service is the final judge of economic matters relative to certified
rehabilitations. Therefore, it is advisable that you consult with a tax
accountant or lawyer before completing your tax return.
To quality for the Investment Tax Credit, a property owner
must:
• Have a certified historic structure. To be certified, the
building must be listed individually on the National Reg-
ister of Historic Places or be a contributing part of a his-
toric district that is either listed on the National Register
or certified as eligible for the National Register
• Use the building for an income -producing purpose such
as rental -residential, commercial, agricultural, or indus-
trial
• Rehabilitate the building in accordance with the Secre-
tary of the Interior's "Standards for Rehabilitation" and
"Guidelines for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings." The
National Park Service (NPS), with advice from the Mary-
land Historical Trust determines whether a project meets
the standards.
• Spend an amount greater than the building's adjusted ba-
sis (roughly the current depreciated value of the building
not including land value) on the approved rehabilitation
project
Tax Credits
55
• Complete the work in a timely manner. Projects must
meet the minimum expenditure test within a two-year
measuring period, but applicants may take up to five
years to complete a phased project if the plans and specs
are approved in advance of construction.
• Pay a fee to the NPS; the fee shall be no less than $250
and no greater than $2,500 and shall be based upon the
qualifying rehabilitation expenditures.
As the requirements, terms, and funding for Federal His-
toric Tax Credit Program are frequently amended, please refer the
National Park Service website for the most recent information on
Federal tax credits:
http://www.nps.gov/hps/TPS/tax/index.htm
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
M
Tax Credits
57
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
Tax Credits
Section
Zoning and County Historic Districts
60
National Historic Preservation Act Preservation Zoning Ordinances
1) the spirit and direction of the Nation
are founded upon and reflected in its his-
Preservation -minded citizens continue to search for improved
toric heritage;
and effective ways to protect their historic neighborhoods, down -
2) the historical and cultural foundations
of the Nation should be preserved as a liv-
towns and rural landscapes and the irreplaceable character of the
ing part of our community life and devel-
buildings and structures that define the county and provide us with
opment in order to give a sense of orienta-
tion to the American people;
visible evidence of our past. Local government leaders struggle to
3) historic properties significant to the
maintain a balance between preservation, property rights, and de -
Nation's heritage are being lost or sub-
velopment growth. For almost forty years, the historic preservation
stantially altered, often inadvertently,
with increasing frequency; a
ordinance has been an effective tool for accomplishing this goal.
4) the preservation of this irreplaceable
When properly applied, zoning can be a powerful tool in protecting
heritage is in the public interest so that
its vital legacy of cultural, educational,
historic properties.
aesthetic, inspirational, economic, and
The preservation ordinance is local legislation, or laws, en -
energy benefits will be maintained and
enriched for future generations ofAmeri-
acted to protect historic districts, individual buildings and archaeo-
cans;
logical sites from destruction or insensitive remodeling. It is a legal
5) in the face ofever-increasing extensions
of urban centers, highways, and residen-
means by which local communities can identify, evaluate and pro-
tial, commercial, and industrial devel-
tect historic properties. Such laws empower a board or commis-
opments, the present governmental and
nongovernmental historic preservation
sion to regulate to a greater or lesser degree, the design of exterior
programs and activities are inadequate
changes to buildings within a defined area.
to insure future generations a genuine op-
portunity to appreciate and enjoy the rich
The most effective local ordinances enable the establishment
heritage of our Nation;
of a design review board or commission and the designation of local
6) the increased knowledge of our his -
toric resources, the establishment of bet-
historic districts and individual landmarks. Ordinances of this type
ter means of identifying and administer-
are called "enabling ordinances." Most ordinances do not identify
ing them, and the encouragement of their
preservation will improve the planning
specific districts or landmarks in the ordinance itself. In this way
and execution of Federal and federally
additional historic properties may be identified and designated in
assisted projects and will assist economic
growth and development; and
the future.
7) although the major burdens of historic
preservation have been borne and major
Federal Level
efforts initiated by private agencies and
individuals, and both should continue to
play a vital role, it is nevertheless neces-
The National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) provides the
sary and appropriate for the Federal Gov-
legal framework for a wide variety of historic preservation programs
ernment to accelerate its historic preser-
vation programs and activities, to give
at all levels. The NHPA was passed by Congress in 1966 and created
maximum encouragement to agencies and
the National Register of Historic Places, State Historic Preservation
g
individuals undertaking preservation by
private means, and to assist State and lo-
Offices, and Certified Local Governments. The NHPA also calls for
cal governments and the National Trust
for Historic Preservation in the United
all Federal agencies to consider the effects of their projects — in -
States to expand and accelerate their his-
cluding funding, permitting, and licensing programs — on historic
toric preservation programs and activi-
ties. —
properties.
In addition to regulatory programs for Federal undertak-
(Pub. L. 89-665, Sec. 1, Oct. 15, 1966, 80
ins, there is a Federal Income Tax Credit for the rehabilitation of
ings,
Stat. 915; Pub. L. 96-515, title I, Sec. 101(a),
12, 1980, 94 Stat. 2987.)
Washington County Historic Districts
61
properties listed in the National Register of
Historic Places. The Rehabilitation Tax Cred-
it Program provides project sponsors with a
credit equal to 20% of qualified expenses for
rehabilitation projects on income -producing
historic properties. This program has helped
to preserve and return hundreds of buildings
in Maryland to productive use. See chapter
3 of this publication for more information on
Tax Credit Programs.
While all Federal agencies have a re-
sponsibility to consider historic properties in
their projects, there are two Federal agencies
charged with specific preservation responsi-
bilities: The National Park Service and the Advisory Council on
Historic Preservation.
The National Park Service (NPS) administers the National
Register of Historic Places, the National Historic Landmarks Pro-
gram, Save America's Treasures, the Certified Local Government
Program, Rehabilitation Tax Credit Program, and numerous tech-
nical assistance programs.
The Advisory Council on Historic Preserva-
tion (ACHP) is the agency charged with ensuring
that other Federal agencies meet their obligations
under the NHPA and consider historic properties
in their project planning and execution. The ACHP
also administers the Preserve America program.
There are no Federal laws or regulations that
limit what private property owners can do to their
properties, including properties listed in the Na-
tional Register of Historic Places. The only situa-
tions in which private property owners may be im-
pacted by Federal laws and regulations are when
the owners have applied for or received a Federal
Rehabilitation Tax Credit (within the last five years) or require a
permit, license, or funding from a Federal agency.
Grove farmstead near the Hagerstown Air-
port was acquired by Washington County in
1999 with a grant from the FAA. The use of
Federal funds requires a Section 106 review
to "mitigate adverse effects" assuring that
the Federal Government is not contributory
to the unwarranted demolition of a valuable
historic property.
The rare and beautiful Swisser Barn at the
Brumbaugh-Kendle-Grove farmstead has
been allowed to fall into a great state of dis-
repair by the Hagerstown Airport personnel.
Summer 2009
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
62
State Level
A grant from the Maryland Historical Trust
assisted the Town of Williamsport in main-
taining the magnificent barn at Springfield
Farm. The great barn houses the town
museum on the lower level and makes the
upper level available for private functions.
Every state has a State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO),
a government agency that administers a variety of programs de-
signed to help citizens preserve and revitalize historic places in their
state. The Maryland Historical Trust is the SHPO for Maryland
and was created by the Maryland General Assembly in 1961. The
Trust is governed by a fifteen -member Board of Trustees appointed
by the Governor, the President of the Senate, and the Speaker of the
House of Delegates, and is administered by the Maryland Depart-
ment of Planning.
The Maryland Historical Trust administers a variety of pro-
grams, including:
• The Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties (MIHP)—
a list of all properties in the State that have been surveyed
and recorded. However, just because a property has been
surveyed and included in the MIHP, it does not mean
that it is historically significant or is subject to any restric-
tions or regulations.
• The Maryland and National Registers of Historic Places —
The Maryland and National Registers are lists of properties
that have been surveyed AND evaluated AND found to be
historically significant the local, State, or national level.
Washington County Historic Districts
63
• Financial Incentives — MHT administers grants, loans,
and tax credits for historic properties, including planning
and documentation, "bricks and mortar", museum, and
heritage tourism projects.
• Review and Compliance — All State and Federal agencies
are required to consider the impact of their projects on
historic properties. MHT reviews all projects receiving
government assistance and helps agencies avoid, mini-
mize, or mitigate adverse effects on historic properties.
• Archeology — MHT undertakes archeological research,
coordinates public archeology programs, and monitors
archeological activities on State-owned property.
• Local Government and Community Assistance — MHT
provides technical and limited financial assistance to mu-
nicipal and county governments, community organiza-
tions, and citizens on a variety of historic preservation
policies and projects.
• Easements — MHT holds easements on more than 600
historic properties across the State, including some of the
most historically, architecturally, and archeologically sig-
nificant properties in Maryland.
Many of these programs are administered in partnership
with National Park Service and the Advisory Council on Historic
Preservation. Congress provides SHPO's with a limited amount of
funding each year through the Historic Preservation Fund to assist
with these programs. The balance of MHT's operating budget is
provided by the State of Maryland.
There are no State laws or regulations that
limit what private property owners can do to
their properties, including properties listed in the
Maryland Inventory, and Maryland and National
Registers of Historic Places. The only situations in
which private property owners may be impacted
by State laws and regulations are when the owners
have applied for or received a State Rehabilitation
Tax Credit (within the last five years) or require a
permit, license, or funding from a State agency.
The Washington CountyAlmshouse on North
Locust Street, Hagerstown is a rare, surviv-
ing example of a poorhouse dating to the turn
of the 19th century. In 2010 this historic struc-
ture was placed on Preservation Maryland's
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
Probe Sought Of Reported Plans
To Sell Rochester House Site
rile Nulttncmn Pmmly Ii.' u' .. 'I,. k• pr,hu.d to lnry
5 1'ICIv want. S •V.rtr1-.. r nrt4. Ten rut... It
-'• It I.daht cftt e'oa 1. Im., rl,p' t,e.14 he —d. is pl r'
t+Ie t�4414 $14444 4. hnlld .. I b Mu mlr pr.plt• IIuMa''
• • f111i.Ia Ine"ne, a tie .11. ,. late 11. utt Ill.l i1 abs.
RYlrvea' ILW N.. i•e MYal 1. i. iii.rr r•- -
►._ Il.rirH14w ll ub. A. III. Ins Itn,Llur• i. Y., ban,.
1 at Ist $ %I'1' rrellat. In M Ire 14444s4 d Ib.t 111..
.'.'4t 10 1"I. nM lit 1ltt.r elaaa It •1f'11 .5 n be- pO.#4( to
.1 larte prnfnrtlr. as4 1404.4 14444444, t>.4 natb10Y Itw,e.. al.i in.
-,.fork• s1rs t',4. hero,... ri au n tMt. ►aeon
11. 41.11141411 t.. T.„M'ly al IN4h1r Oils..' Nwdell HtdtuY• Mnf,1
cfbae<t emcee of 11eft1 Vu.b d• al.14.. when he .hs er.taAC' srnr
and rrn.pe••1 Slt..l. ItAV he, b.r. d.1 —s lb. Civil W. Hnlres
„'A an n 111ltat .Iatw. Idta .nor he -.n. .n u.ortatf a1s41.•e
the NWcrlrY BI.WII •"1"t *r- ,. the per... Cnitrl nhd a►[ Of
.uunnr.gr 1. ar:nlnt a Antes of In. 1111i11 . wadl.l. .IM ttlaa ir.l
tttstntn'a mvl (lrdillla.nl r1► lent).
rat110.n.ter, sod ulMlpl I.4- 1r10er mrr►trs of the tll.tlarlert
04n44 w1t.Ihe tln pTMerly tae :4.1011 Mlneed it 1044( •.rya of
•• p.c..n ed r M.s pr.unt lens. IlatMtln41 . 5It.' fits OfcMrlle•
\tar In 1Y. 11..[4 of rh. 1'ue.• I'.re 11trf AertreN In T4fMr
..,.,IIT, the Nnrhr-.I-r iinw .1, •em.. at:. 4k. Na..tn'sir IIunI.
r'll 1. li I, I? (',J 't ,h..r.t it..' .I/A p..1 440 It...,., - l',Jttar 1-I.N:
-he.Icr. Thr h1.111k't I,.ndo& Il to. ..lid I11.44 11.1 It'. heater Ike,.. -
r.. 1.161 the Cite n( II.ro'fle,. >+.Ilkl is 1 e—rre11 I. 11. P0.0.'.'.
earliest battles for preservation in Wash-
ington County begins in the infamous, very
public, and unsuccessful attempt to save
the 18th mansion known as the Rochester
House two block west of Hagerstown 's
square.
Morning Herald, August 12, 1969. Washing-
ton County was praised for being the only
county in Maryland with a Historical Advisory
Committee.
County Praised For Being
Far Ahead Of Others In
Historical Preservation
The Board of County Calif. Tier organization inventories
missioners today heard Aim, old buildings for the National
Ann Parish of the dloyhrnd ll i slur i c a Tntst Register of historic Siles which,
l pi
1'r I ngtmr county for lining site explained, is a Its[ or sig-
"far ahead of other counties" ni€icant national, state and local
in the area of historical pros-cr. prepertes which should be
Val1W1. Saved front destrtuctiolt.
BI's. Paristl presented to lilt One unfortunate mumbo the
commissioners a report on like county has made, hirs. Parish
survey made of historic Points salt], was the loss of the historic
in H'ashingtrnt Couuly wldelt Nathaniel Rochester h n u s e .
also included a bisloric building lfoehesler founded the dl)' of
She EnShe i . Washington nul nshinglon Rochenier, N.%'.
County is the only county in She stressed the need for a
the halo to hate its own acting cnnrhinstick of cerchrl planning
bistm•ical advisory cmntniltee, Wild historic preservation. The
and lauded Ilia county for its carrots'can allow for growth and
foresight. (building devcloliniont and still
'Your rental}' is nationally 'fl l'survc its wonderful heritage,
significant," she laid Ilia call; she maintained,
nttssinners, because it was the Ms's. Parish told the coral -
early gateway to the thrust. th- rnissisners that stir hoped (fey
ward western frontier, an event didn't understand a%rryibing
airs. Parish termed mare role situ Clad to say her:urse she
pnrlant titan tile. ,noon landing wanlyd In mine hack anti rx•
it] our national history. plain it ironic.
In her rrpa•I. Mrs. Parish Any exr•nse to collie to
'praised the tasteful architcclurr Washiugioe County, she said,
in the county and told the eoo; wonhl soil her. "IL's one at the
missiuners "Inure ml to i1." loveliest counties in the state."
my Level
The National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 is the le -
;al foundation for Washington County's for local historic pres-
rvation legislation so long as there are well -thought-out crite-
ia and standards, good hearing procedures, well -documented
ecords and sound administrative oversight and decisions are
:onsistent and serve multiple public goals. Detailed minutes
nust be kept, historic sites and districts must be carefully re-
earched and selected throughout the community, and design
eview decisions must be consistent and based upon sensible
[esign guidelines which are readily understandable and avail-
ble to the public.
Local preservation legislation enables the county and com-
munities to designate groups of historic or archaeological proper-
ties, called historic districts, or individual properties as zoning over-
lays. This means that the legal use of the land does not change, but
that an additional designation of historic "zone" is identified. These
Historic Preservation districts and zones are administered by the
Historic District Commissions.
The Washington County governments support historic pres-
ervation in a variety of ways, including being the owners and stew-
ards of historic properties, offering tax incentives, and creating His-
toric Area Overlay Zones.
In Maryland only local governments have the authority to
review and approve changes to historic properties owned by indi-
viduals. State law allows counties and municipalities to designate
historic districts and individual landmarks and review changes
to those properties as a way of preserving the historic fabric that
makes those properties significant and ensure that new construc-
tion is compatible with the historic nature of those properties.
Changes to these locally designated historic districts and proper-
ties are reviewed by the Historic District Commissions of Wash-
ington County or the Hagerstown Preservation District that are
appointed by the County Commissioners and the Mayor and
Council of Hagerstown respectively.
Washington County Historic Districts
65
SECTION 20.0 PURPOSE - THE PURPOSE OF THE HISTORIC PRESERVA-
TION DISTRICT IS TO PROVIDE A MECHANISM FOR THE PROTECTION, ENHANCE-
MENT AND PERPETUATION OF THOSE SIGNIFICANT HISTORIC STRUCTURES, SITES
AND DISTRICTS AS DEFINED IN SECTION 20.7 IN WASHINGTON COUNTY, WHICH
HAVE HISTORICAL, ARCHITECTURAL, ARCHEOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL MERIT.
THE "HP" DISTRICT IS AN OVERLAY ZONE MEANT TO ENHANCE, NOT SUBSTI-
TUTE, FOR THE EXISTING ZONING DESIGNATION, THAT REGULATES LAND USE.
SECTION 20.1 - HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION CREATED. PURSUANT TO THE
AUTHORITY GRANTED TO WASHINGTON COUNTY IN ARTICLE 66B, SECTION 801
ET. SEQ. OF THE ANNOTATED CODE OF MARYLAND, THERE IS HEREBY CREATED
THE "HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION OF WASHINGTON COUNTY, MARYLAND."
SECTION 20.3 HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION DUTIES & POWERS
SECTION 20.4 ESTABLISHMENT OF "HP" ZONES. THE "HP" DISTRICT IS AN
fanners Urge Plaza
one For Rt. 40 Tract
A discussion of proposed zon•Ider the Burhans administration
ing for a recently annexed area I The commission officially re
occupied the time Thursday of commended that about 3s acre
the Hagerstown Planning Corn.of the property fronting on Dua
mission. Highway should be zoned corn
The group, along with mem• munity shipping center. Resi
bers of the Board of Zoning Idential zoning was recommender
Appeals and the owner of the for the rest of the land.
property. Dr. Richard Harrison I In other business the coo
investigated several possibilities mission reviewed the mastc
for the general area known as street plan proposed by the cit!
Fox Deceived Farm along Rt. engineer.
40.I The commission recommends
The area is generally bounded that Northern Ave. be improves
by Ilowell Rd., Dual Highway land extended and that tw.
and the Ilehb farm. It contains sections of the proposed north
286 acres and was annexed nn- east bypass be realigned.
OVERLAY ZONE THAT INDICATES THE PRESENCE OF AN HISTORIC SITE, STRUCTURE
OR DISTRICT, WHICH HAS BEEN OR WILL BE JUDGED TO BE OF SIGNIFICANCE TO
THE HERITAGE OF WASHINGTON COUNTY. THE OVERLAY ZONE IS ALSO A MECHANISM TO MONI-
TOR AND REGULATE BUILDING ACTIVITIES IN THE "HP" DISTRICT. AS AN OVERLAY ZONE, THE
"HP" DISTRICT IMPOSES ADDITIONAL GUIDELINES DURING THE CONSTRUCTION OR MODIFICATION
OF NEW OR EXISTING STRUCTURES ON THE SUBJECT PROPERTY. THESE CRITERIA ARE IN ADDI-
TION TO THE CONVENTIONAL UNDERLYING LAND USE ZONE. THE "HP" OVERLAY ZONE SHALL BE
IN NO WAY CONSTRUED TO LIMIT OR MODIFY THE PERMITTED USES OF THE UNDERLYING ZONE.
SECTION 20.5 CRITERIA FOR ESTABLISHMENT OF AN "HP" OVERLAY ZONE
SECTION 20.6 ACTIVITY WITHIN AN "HP" ZONE
IN THE "HP" DISTRICT, ANY ACTIVITY WHICH REQUIRES THE ISSUANCE OF A BUILDING PERMIT
ACCORDING TO THE CURRENTLY ADOPTED WASHINGTON COUNTY BUILDING CODE AND SUBSE-
QUENT AMENDMENTS AS ADOPTED FOR USE IN WASHINGTON COUNTY AND THE PROCEDURES OF
THE DEPARTMENT OF PERMITS AND INSPECTIONS SHALL BE SUBJECT TO REVIEW, APPROVAL OR
DISAPPROVAL BY THE HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION OF WASHINGTON COUNTY. SUCH ACTIV-
ITY CAN INCLUDE BUT IS NOT LIMITED TO CONSTRUCTION, RECONSTRUCTION, RELOCATION, RES-
TORATION, REHABILITATION, MODIFICATION, ENLARGEMENT, CONVERSION OR DEMOLITION OF ALL
OR ANY PORTION OF THE EXTERIOR FEATURES OF THE SUBJECT SITE, STRUCTURE OR DISTRICT.
SECTION 20.7 DEFINITIONS
SECTION 20.8 APPEALS
Morning Herald, May 1966. The Hagerstown
Planning Commission determined the 18th
century stone home and barn known as Fox
Deceived Farm on the Dual Highway should
be a shopping plaza.
Guidelines for Historic Freservation
1iA_Ii-C6512
MARYLAND HISTORICAL TRUST VTHL
MAOI�d R3103233JJ
INVENTORY FORM FOR STATE HISTORIC SITES SURVEY
•LOCATION
ryland
{pesRing
•CLASSIPICATION
a,. D.
.K -
•OWNER OF PROPERTY
EM -Y E.IB
m1
lay _
_
•LOCATION OF LEGAL DESCRIPTION
aFington Cou y Cou
rAU. F521
e"01
REPRESENTATION IN EXISTING SURVEYS
PREPARED BY
(301," s,_aaJR 31.gi .1.
Washington County Historical Resources
Washington County Historical Site Survey
Washington County launched its first formal survey and
identification of it's historic resources in the mid 1970's when an
architectural historian consultant was hired with joint County and
State funding. Within five years, over 1,300, individual, pre -1860
resources were identified, evaluated, and cataloged. It was the foun-
dation for the Washington County Historical Site Survey. In 1983,
additional funding enabled an additional eighty-two properties to
be identified when the Getty Survey was completed.
In 1989, Washington County began a
lomprehensive effort to identify and evaluate
resources and potential for historic districts in
s all the incorporated municipalities throughout
the county except Hagerstown. Each survey in-
cluded a contextual history relating the specific
factors that lead to the towns development,
lists of contributing resources and a proposed
historic district boundary. The survey limited
U. enti tied lusrorie resources to be fifty -years old or older, the profes-
sionally and nationally accepted guideline.
Hancock was the first town in the county to tender a complet-
ed survey in 1989 identifying 348 contributing resources. William-
sport was surveyed in 1990 with 381 identified resources. Smith-
sburg and Sharpsburg were completed in 1991 and identified 161
and 218 resources respectively. In 1992, 142 sites were documented
in Clear Spring and 249 were noted as contributing to a
potential district in Boonsboro. Keedysville's survey was
completed in 1993 with a different source of contribut-
ing funds from the Maryland Department of Planning
y S� and listed 124 contributing sites within a potential dis-
•G�; o�ATg3, trict boundary. After a brief hiatus due to the shortage of
funding, Funkstown was the final town to be surveyed in
One of the Washington County Historical Site Survey completed in 1976. The Reich -
9 p
trd Farm on Jordan Road write up includes a brief history, a description, and historical significance. Black and white photos and a map complete the file.
Washington County Historic Districts
67
1996 where 162 contributing resources were identified. The City of
Hagerstown has 1,653 contributing resources located within six na-
tional register districts, that overlap with its four locally designated
preservation design districts.
Site surveys continue on an individual basis and are added to
existing survey work. Occasionally they are initiated by the prop-
erty owner but more often it is triggered by use of Federal and State
funding or permits that require analysis of their effects on
historic resources. Affected sites not previously done are ana-
lyzed and documented.
Most recently survey work has been completed as a
joint funding effort between Washington County and the
State of Maryland through the Certified Local Government
program, status which Washington County achieved on Au-
gust 28, 1991. Two phases of this Rural Community Survey
have been completed with several more to be completed.
Each community contains multiple properties. Some
may have significance to local history on their own. Most, however,
will have more importance as a contributing resource to assist in
understanding and interpreting the history of the whole commu-
nity and Washington County. To date, the communities that have
had their surveys completed and the number of resources identified
include Maugansville (101 resources), Rohrersville (42), Pen Mar
(53), Fairplay (23), and Tilghmanton (72). The Highfield/Cascade
community has been preliminarily evaluated but a resource count
was delayed to a future phase of the project. In all, the resources that
contribute to the understanding of the past development of rural
communities and therefore to the therefore to the County's history,
number 291.
Almost 25 years of historic sites survey has identified 5,127
sites in Washington County and it's municipali-
ties, most of them being dwellings. The 1990
census counted 47,448 housing units in Wash-
ington County. 13,570 of them were reported to
be constructed before 1939. 8,592 of those pre -
1939 structures are located in the incorporated
municipalities, 6,761 in Hagerstown alone. The
remaining pre -1939 structures in towns, 1,831
®8IGMl IcANcE —Y65
aratewex�orvaxeiuxce 1808
This house 1 al In 1 general pia �. I aof�sri � �etur H
tral Dlok avd f1a 1 . viv8 and rylei
b gm iv 1g0R by Samuel "re old for fi daugM1btt. t a£
f=1,1diFFlcultbryYee able 1. uildLu{M
ewaepleptWiOevt81oe.1 familiec in the— Javea area. a andd a eefeMrd'e
oESCR�PTION WB'v.-yb5
., a dot —$*
Ihle c1-1 .arc e[ . house c nefeee oe . ems orYcMea bey gable
fron[ c e 1 block with • paSr of tw etery, three bey mlx�ge epm-
dmeteam[[mMd et • ch etde. daeee[ow s 1n tM y ble o4rehe west
wt� Sa Swttlbad with the year 1808. The wa11e se built of a re d
e alth flat arches have win s scion o ��inY The Muee Me B.
cal Ca. 1900 • ettone. Also y !a brick ka house.
scone ou buildl� eM a frwa bmk barn 1[h b{fek grainaeiae.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
corresponds favorably with the total number surveyed in the mu-
nicipalities of 1,785. With 1,689 sites surveyed in the county since
the 1970's and the Census indication of 4,978 pre -1939 dwelling
units in the County there is some merit in the thought that there are
still many potentially historic sites, over 3200, unevaluated, waiting
to be discovered and documented.
Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties
The Maryland Historical Trust was created in 1961 to as-
sist the people of Maryland in identifying, evaluating, protecting
and interpreting the state's significant historic, architectural, and
cultural resources. The Trust's field survey program has operated
continuously since that date, placing some 45,000 entries on the
Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties. Over the years, docu-
mentation standards have evolved considerably. Early reconnais-
sance surveys produced brief architectural descriptions and minimal
photographic coverage; subsequent efforts often expanded upon this
basic information with historical research and measured drawings.
Following the creation of the federal historic preservation program
and the Trust's designation as the State Historic Preservation Office
for Maryland, a more exhaustive inventory form was developed,
based on the National Register format; this brought the state's field
survey standards into close alignment with National Park Service
requirements. Documentation produced in recent decades is rich
in content, and has established the Maryland inventory's national
reputation for thoroughness and professionalism.
The MHT assembled all Maryland county Historical Site
Surveys in the Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties and have
made these survye's available to the public in electronic form on
their website. Through grants the MHT continues to expand the
database by adding historic properties.
http://www.mdihp.net/
Rural Villages
The Rural Village designation is provided to preserve the
unique historic or rural character of existing villages by encour-
aging compatible, harmonious development within a defined vil-
lage boundary. It also identifies clusters of existing development in
Washington County Historic Districts
69
the rural areas that may be candidates fo
public facilities in the future. The zon
intends for permitted development to b
generally of a similar density, scale any
use type and mixture as that which exist
in the village. 1
The zone is also designed to pre
vent large amounts or inappropriatel:
scaled development or uses that woulb
detract from the existing rural or histori
character of the village. It is expected tha
development will be residential and a lim
ited amount of mixed rural services. Mor
than one use may be permitted on one
specific guidelines. Public water and sewer may be available for the
purpose of resolving or preventing health issues. Use of public utili-
ties to permit greater density than the density specified in this sec-
tion is not permitted.
The formal designation of "Rural Villages" is an outgrowth of
Maryland's Smart Growth Act of 1997. By law, a designated Rural
Village is considered a "Priority Funding Area" (PFA). Many such
villages have existed in Washington County since colonial times
while newer urban settlements at junctions in roads or along creeks
and railroads have evolved in the recent past. Rural Villages are de-
fined by something other than incorporation or governing structure.
They are definable on the landscape and contribute to the unique
character of Washington County. They usually include a small core
of a residential neighborhood associated with a retail establishment
or an institution such as a post office, elementary school, church or
I Section 5D.5 Architectural Review It is the intention of the Rural Village designation to promote new development that is con-
sistent in type, scale and appearance with existing development in the village. (a) In Rural Villages that are identified in Washington County's
Historic Sites Inventory, individual parcels identified in the same inventory when the village is not identified, properties listed in Maryland's
Inventory of Historic Places or properties listed in the National Register of Historic Places, the exterior appearance of new construction that re-
quires a building permit, except buildings of 100 square feet or less, shall be subject to review and approval or disapproval by the Washington
County Historic District Commission.
The Historic District Commission shall use the adopted review guidelines as provided in Article 20 of the Zoning Ordinance. 1. In addition to
the adopted guidelines the Historic District Commission shall give consideration to the following in its determination of appropriate exterior
appearance of new construction in the Rural Village district, a. the exterior appearance of existing structures in the Rural Village including
materials, style, arrangement of doors and windows, mass, height and number of stories, roof style and pitch, proportion. b. Building size and
orientation c. landscaping d. signage e. lighting f. setbacks g. accessory structures (b) All applications for new construction, except buildings
of 100 square feet or less, shall provide accurately scaled and detailed elevation drawings of all sides of the structure for review as part of
the building permit or site plan review, whichever is first applicable. (c) As other Rural Villages or individual properties within the Rural Village
district are evaluated to determine their historic significance according to Maryland Historical Trust guidelines and are added to the Maryland
Inventory of Historic Properties, Washington County's Inventory of Historic Properties or the National Register of Historic Places, the exterior
appearance of those structures shall also become subject to the review and approval or disapproval of the Historic District Commission. The
requirement for Historic District Commission review of exterior appearance in Rural Villages added after original adoption of this Ordinance
shall apply only after a public hearing during which the affected property owners have had the opportunity to provide input.
Washington County was surveyed for his-
toric content in 2001. Any new construction
within the bounds of the Rural Village are
subject to review by the Washington County
Historic District Commission.
Guidelines for Historic Freservation
70
fire station. Most are located in the rural areas some distance from
other towns or facilities. A few are close enough to an urban center
to be associated with the Urban Growth Area or a Town Growth
Area. Many have vacant lots that are suitable for infill development.
No new Rural Villages are being recommended at this time, how-
ever, it is recommended that the villages be reviewed for their his-
torical potential so that "historical sub -areas" may be delineated
within the boundary of the villages. The intent is to create historical
sub -areas within the rural villages so that additional emphasis can
be placed on design criteria so that the historical nature of the area
may be preserved in terms of scale and compatibility. The following
are the designated "Rural Villages" for Washington County:
Rural Village
Completed
Other
Antietam
Bagtown
Bakersville
Beaver Creek
Big Pool
Big Spring
Bostetter
within UGA
Breathesdville
Bridgeport
within UGA
Brownsville
Cascade
Cavetown
Cearfoss
Cedar Lawn
within UGA
Charlton
Chewsville
Conococheague/ Wilson
Dargan
Downsville
March 2009
Eakle's Mill
Edgemont
Ernestville
Fairplay
need date
Fairview
Fiddlesburg/Security
Washington County Historic Districts
71
Rural Village
Completed
Other
Gapland
Garrett's Mill
Greensburg
Highfield
July 1999
Huyett
Indian Springs
Jugtown
Kemps
Lappans
Leitersburg
Nov 2002
National Register
Mapleville
Maugansville
Within UGA*
Mercersville
Middleburg
Mt. Aetna
Mt. Briar
Mt. Lena
March 2009
Pecktonville
Pen Mar
July 1999
Pinesburg
Pondsville
Reid
Ringgold
July 2001
Rohrersville
need date
Sandy Hook
July 2001
St. James (Lydia)
Tilghmanton
July 1999
Trego-Rohrersville Station
Williamsport Station
Yarrowsburg
*Rural Villages within the Urban Growth Areas are not subject to HDC review.
Major public investment by the County in public facilities
and services to encourage substantial new development should not
be made in Rural Villages. Priority should be given to correcting
existing public health and safety problems that result from failing
septic systems or contaminated wells.
It is anticipated that a Rural Village Zoning District classifi-
cation coinciding with the designated Rural Villages located in the
Guidelines for Historic Freservation
72
ister of Historic Places and is designated a
local Historic Preservation District.
Rural Area will be implemented through
the Zoning Ordinance. Residential develop-
ment density for a Rural Village classification
is anticipated to be in the one dwelling unit
per acre range unless specific environmen-
tal problems have been identified or where
existing public facilities can permit a higher
density. Development should be limited to
infill development in accordance with the
defined boundaries for the Rural Village.
Additional regulations addressing
aural considerations are anticipated to insure
new development compatibility with existing development. No new
Rural Villages are being recommended at this time.
Historical Preservation Zone Properties
The purpose of the Historic Preservation District is to pro-
vide a mechanism for the protection, enhancement and perpetu-
ation of those significant historic structures, sites and districts as
defined in Section 20.7 in Washington County, that have historical,
architectural, archeological and cultural merit. The "HP" district is
an overlay zone meant to enhance, not substitute, for the existing
zoning designation which regulates land use. Districts established
to reflect elements of the cultural, social, economic, political or ar-
chitectural history are intended to:
• Safeguard the heritage of Washington County as embodied
The Keedy House, circa 1776, on Barnes and reflected in such structures, sites and districts
Road near Boonsboro is on the National . Stabilize and improve property values of such structures, sites
Register of Historic Places and is designat-
ed a local Historic Preservation District, and districts and in Washington County generally
• Foster civic pride in the beauty and noble ac-
complishments of the past
• Strengthen the economy of the County
• Promote the preservation and appreciation of
historic structures, sites and districts for the edu-
cation, and welfare of the residents of Washing-
ton County.
Washington County Historic Districts
73
Historic group asks tax cuts for preservation
By ARNOLD S. PLATOU
A group studying historic preservation in Washington Cr_
Ly has proposed tax credits as a means -of retaining historic and
umque properties.
The Historic District Commission in a report to the County
Commissioners this week, suggested tax breaks (or persons
voluntarily placing their property m historic districts.
"You're giving an incentive," says commission chairman
Samuel Pruett. "All It is now is, 'I'm going to fix my property
upandthey're going to charge me for it.' You're trying to
r trio it (preservation) only la a rich man's play thing.
"But not every property worth preserving is on a rich
man's land," Pruett says.
Pruett's group was appointed by the commissioners several
months ago. Since than, it has studied preservation laws lo
other counties and has held public meetings to discuss the role
local government should have in preserving historic cod unique
properties.
Inthe same report the group proposed an ordinance tar
historical and architectural preservation in the county. The
oommthsloneeo will not act on the proposal until after a public
hearing May 17 in the Courthouse.
At present 23 properties in the county are zoned historic
preservation. In each case, the landowner requested the zoning.
It the historic district commission's proposed ordinance
were adopted, the county would have the power to regulate the
use of those areas. There are so such regulations now.
Under the proposal, owner of buildings, bridges, towers,
walls, rocks, trees, and formations and other objects deemed
worth preserving would volunteer inclusion of the property in
an historic district.
Each application would be reviewed by the historic district
en. The county commissioners would make the final
ands on r
Once the property is accepted, the owner would have to
secure the approval of the historic commission before
avating, altering or destroying the outside of a structure.
Changes to the yntariar, maintenance, and repairs of unsafe con.
it toom could be done without commission approval.
Pruett says the commission hopes to prevent property
0000cm from unwittingly damaging the distoric value and
appearance of structures. But at the same time, he says, the
eammisston would not farce historic district members into no -
When the Zoning Ordinance was adopted in 1973 it con-
tained a Historic Preservation zone. Although it was applied to over
500 acres of land area, that text was unable to provide any signifi-
cant guidance or protection for privately owned historic sites. Wash-
ington County at least considered a new Ordinance for preservation
of historic structures in 1977. A draft of the Ordinance remains as
well as a record of at least one hearing. It was not adopted.
The 1981 Comprehensive Plan Commissioners kill rdnn
contained recommendations to develop a
voluntary zoning designation that would
protect, enhance and perpetuate those
structures and areas in Washington Coun-
ty which are of historic, architectural, ar-
cheological or cultural merit. The County
accomplished that goal in 1986 by adopt-
ing a completely new text for the Historic
Preservation District with corresponding
map amendments. It replaced the original
and ineffective 1973 version. The text fol-
pensive renovations.
"We're trying to maintain a period. But that doesn't
necessarily mean log to lag. We just want to try to match to
some degree the materials and colors," Pruett says. "We'd like
to pave something that is compatible, that level a complete
departure" from the present architectural design.
Applicmions to substantially change a properly would be
aired tea public hearing before the historic mmmasive made
its decision. That decision could be appealed to the manly
Board of Zoning Appeals.
It the historic commission felt the ordinance had been
violated, it cood seek a court injunction against the work.
Violators could be fined a maximum of SLOW and sentenced up
to 00 days is jail,
sented the idea of Historic Tax Credits to the
County Commissioners. The tax credit or-
dinance was not approved by the County
Commissioners until July 1990.
Historic protection nosedives
By ARNOLD 8, PLATOU
Preservation of historic properties in the audit.
eaepabated acres of Washington County was dealt a
clear setback by the County Commisstnoees Taso'
day.
The commissioners tailed to endorse a motion by
Commissioner Lea Downey to adopt an btatorle
peeservehan ordinance. But the cammisslonen
dida'F abolish the county group that proposed lbe we'
itinance.
The eonfllcling actions apparently leave open
future discussion of rules proleeling hisbrle proper'
lies. Commissioner Lee DowweY and Roller Nigh
agreed that each discussion Is "not dead,"
The Ordinance would have allowed ellisam lo,
Inferiority place their properties In historic did.
levels. It the property were accepted by the county,
the owner, would have had to work'wilh the county
historic district commission before changing mere
tenor of the structure.
This pmctsbn was viewed as protection against
damage to the histarle value or appearance Of such
structures.
Commissioner Burl Hoffmam as opponent of the
proposal, was incensed by a provision that would
have allowed the Owners of such properties to draw
tea credit, for 'mnking structure) Improvements.
lfofsman contended that the rich, whom he
believes own most of the historic property in the
area, would be the only property owners to hreefil.
But Commissioner Nigh, an early aupporler.
turned the table Tuesday. Nigh ]old the other cnm.
msssionen that in addition to a lax credit, the owners
of historic property would be eligible Sara deduction
do their stale income lases. lie void deductions could
be claimed for the (oat cast of property' Im-
peovemenls.
In July Nigh allowed the proponents of historic
preservalion Io hope that the ordinance would pass.
lie countered Hoffman's apposition at that time by
saying that the lea enadits would bean "incentive"
to those willing to spend money.to upgrade historic
properties.
I think it's a small price Io pay far the benefits
of historic preservation," nigh said then. Largely as
esulf.of his arguments at that time, the cam-
e ssinoses postponed their decision pending further
study.
but es Tdesdey Nigh esplained his change of
heart by'saying that he only recently discovered that
state income lax deductions were atso available. Its
said the combination of lax credits and deductions is
"loo much of a price to pay."
Commissieoel President Marty Snook had
earlier sided with Roffman in opposing such as
lowed the Comprehensive Plan guidelines by being voluntary and
includes provisions for review of building permit applications with
an eye toward keeping changes to the exterior of buildings in the
zone consistent with the historic appearance.
New construction in the zone is also subject to plan review
and compliance with design standards. The text created a Historic
District Commission with specific responsibilities for administra-
tion of permit review within the zone.
At the time of its adoption it was consistent with existing
State legislation that delegated the authority for Historic Preserva-
tion zoning to counties, Section 8 of Article 66B. Since then Article
credits. Commissioner Bill Dwyer, who is In the
hospital, did not participate In Tuesday's voting.
So that left the,sole opietno lobe foensed locum'
missloerr Downey. Downey said he favored the
preservatlan Idea.
"I think It does encourage people to restore a
house (progeny) rather than just going in and doing
whatever they please." Downey said he was also im-
pressed by the fact that there ones "not too much"
opposition expressed by citirens when the proposed
ordinance was aired in several public hearings.
The chairman M tint historic district commis.
to draft the ordinnance. ss d Tuesday bp y C0 ht heats ate.
mayed and somewhat confined by the cunt
missloners' asttnrs.
And chairman Sam Pruett said the county is now
u -Protected against loss of historic properties.
"We could wind up with another Ilochoster
house," Pruett warned. The Rochester House, budt
met I50 years ago in Hageestown by a man Who later
founded Rochester, N.Y., was destroyed several
years ago.
"II is now a parking lot at
the corner of Prospect
and West Washington," Pruell said. "I'm afraid we
may fled ourselves in mare such situations but now
well he able to say why we cuuide't do somelhing
ucwoer"76, 1977. Washing-
ton County just wasn't ready.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
74
onaipauui y.
The Antietam Overlay AO districts exclude
the city of Sharpsburg
ias been revised and there is a need to
the County's Historic Preservation
Lg to incorporate those changes.
At the present time there are forty -
sites in Washington County with
Tistoric Preservation zoning overlay.
:een are privately owned and almost
those are residential properties. A
handful of properties were added
tarily at the owner's request after the
guidelines were amended and pro -
with significant protective author-
ie majority being stone arch bridges
in government ownership. The remaining 6 sites are also publicly
owned and of a park or open space nature such as the C & 0 Canal,
Washington Monument and the like.
Antietam Overlay
The purpose of the Antietam Overlay District is to provide
mechanisms for the protection of significant historic structures and
land areas by requiring development and land subdivision to occur
in a manner that
• Preserves the existing quality of the viewshed of the Anti-
etam Battlefield, and
• Ensures that development of certain lands adjacent to
the major roads which provide public access to the An-
tietam Battlefield (i.e., Maryland Routes 34 and 65) is
compatible with the agricultural and historic character of
the area. The "AO" District is an overlay zone meant to
enhance, not substitute for the existing underlying zoning
designation which regulates land use.
The Antietam Overlay District is comprised of three sub -
districts: The Battlefield Buffer (AO -1), the Approach Zones (AO -
2), and the Red Hill Area (AO -3). Lands zoned AO -1 (Battlefield
Buffer) and AO -3 (Red Hill Area) are situated within the Battle-
field Foreground and Red Hill Middleground, respectively, of the
Antietam Viewshed, as determined by the National Park Service
Washington County Historic Districts
Antietam Overlay Zones
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Map 56
Data Sources:
Key
U.S. Census Bureau 10
// Roads
Areas
Comprehensive Plan
MD Office of Planning
D Euclidian Zones
zone acres sq. mi.
for
MD State Highway Administration
Overlay Zones
Washington County Planning Dept
AO1
AO -1 3,504 5.47
Washington County,
AO2
AO -2 925 1.45
Maryland
Note This is for
- AO3
AO -3 536 .84
2002
: map prepared the sole purpose
of illustrating the Comprehensive Plan.
ft should not be used for other purposes.
information shown on this map was compiled
from various original sources listed and is
0 0.5
N
1 Miles
Prepared by the
Washington County
subject to change as soup data changes.
Planning Department
P:\policy\zone\aoverlay.apr
4-23-2(01
Geographic Information System
76
viewshed worth preserving.
Rockland, circa 1800, is located on the
Sharpsburg Pike. It is eligible for, but at
present not on, the National Register of
Historic Places, .
I documented in its April 1988 techni-
study entitled Analysis of the Visible
idscape: Antietam. The boundaries
-he AO -1 and AO -3 zones conform to
perty boundaries except where man -
de or natural features provide suitable
indaries.
Lands zoned AO -2 (Approach
ries) are situated within 1000 feet of the
terline of certain road segments, and
not necessarily conform to property
indaries. The length of the AO -2 (Ap-
on the zoning maps.
Scenic view sheds and vistas of Red Hill from the Antietam
Battlefield are protected in part by the Antietam Overlay Zones
identified in the County Zoning Ordinance. Roadway approach
zones along highways near the Battlefield are also mapped in the
Ordinance. In these areas, a proposed activity that requires a build-
ing permit is subject to review of the Historic District Commission
of Washington County.
In 1989 Washington County created a zoning designation
known as the Antietam Overlay zone, similar in effect, intent and
mechanics to the Historic Preservation zone. The zone was created
in response to the perception that the southern portion of Washing-
ton County and especially the area around Sharpsburg and the An-
-field was in imminent
rampant development.
a Overlay text and map
were adopted in 1989
�d density reduction ef-
:ted.
Antietam Overlay has
2gories tied to distinct
areas with different
protection. The AO -1
known as the Battle -
,one, which includes all
rivate lands within the
Washington County Historic Districts
77
legislative boundary of the Antietam National Battlefield,
over 3500 acres. Permits for construction of new residen-
tial, commercial or industrial uses must be reviewed by
the Historic District Commission using the same design
guidelines employed in the Historic Preservation zone
to insure compatibility with the historic appearance of
the area. The AO -2 zone, also known as the Approach
Zone, requires the same construction permit review for
non-residential construction. These "approach" zones are
designed to present an appropriate appearance to visitors
arriving in the historic battlefield area via several major highways.
They radiate from the edge of the AO -1 zone along major highway
routes that provide access to the area. They extend 1000' on either
side of the highway.
The final portion of the trilogy is the AO -3 or Red Hill zone.
It is intended to regulate and limit the removal of tree cover on Red
Hill, which provides the background for views from a significant
portion of the Battlefield park. It is designed to retain as much for-
est coverage as possible when development occurs. It is meant to
enhance the visitor's experience at Antietam by providing a histori-
cally correct viewshed.
Together, the three Antietam Overlay zoning designations
cover over 4,000 acres of 190 south central Washington County.
Of the hundreds of existing dwelling units in the AO -1 and AO -2
zones, 35 are currently identified in existing inventory materials.
Two are listed in the National Register of Historic Places [need a
map of the three zones].
National Reciister of Historic Places Properties
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of
the Nation's cultural resources worthy of preservation. The deter-
mination is a cooperative process that includes nomination by own-
ers or other interested parties and a multi step evaluation against
national standards including experts and National, State and local
government officials and substantial opportunity for public input.
In Maryland, listing results in multiple benefits that assist in pre-
serving historic resources such as:
• Recognition that a property is of significance to the Nation,
as an impressive example of a type of rural
summer residence that reflects the eclectic
melding of several distinctive architectural
styles popular in the early 20th century. In
particular, the styles represented by this
building include the Craftsman/Bungalow,
American Foursquare, the Late Victorian
Queen Anne, and Colonial Revival styles.
Built c. 1906 as a summer "cottage" by a
wealthy urbanite from Baltimore, the natural
stone and cedar shingle construction blends
well into the mountain landscape
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
or the Community.
eration in the Planning for Federal,
or state funded, licensed and assisted
ity for federal and Maryland tax ben-
eration in the decision to issue sur-
mining permits.
lity to apply for federal and state
d low interest loans
itional Register listing can govern
ment of a structure, insuring com-
habilitation and design of new addi-
Dugh the use of nationally and pro -
y accepted Secretary of the Interiors
vhen those changes are financed or
require permits from federal or state agencies. Contrary to popular
belief the National Register does not regulate land use or provide
the ultimate protection against inappropriate changes or demolition
of historic sites when private funds are used.
In addition to the prestige of formal acknowledgment that
a site bears significance in American history, architecture, archeol-
ogy, engineering and culture, the Register is a tool to assist federal
and state agencies in using taxpayer funds wisely. Listing creates
a mechanism to insure that federal and state governments do not
spend public resources in ways that negatively impact historic re-
sources that have value to or benefits for the general public. Listing
carries no County land use regulations.
Washington County's first listings in the National Register
HAGAN THE HORRIBLE ICY DIK BROWNE _ -r
79
of Historic Places occurred in 1966
when the Antietam National Bat-
tlefield and the C&O Canal were
entered. The most recent listings of
the private property known as Hills,
Dales and the Vineyard and a histor-
ic district within the town of Funk-
stown in 2000 brings the County's
National Register listings to a total of
eighty-four. Nineteen of the Nation-
al Register sites are within the City
of Hagerstown and six of those are
multiple property districts. Also in-
cluded in the total is one site each in
the municipalities of Boonsboro and
Sharpsburg. Washington County and its Historic District Com-
mission is now an official participant in the nomination and review
process by virtue of its Certified Local Government responsibili-
ties and privileges. (see appendix for listing of current Washington
County National Register of Historic Places Properties.)
Contributing structures identified within a incorporated
towns on the National Register of Historic Places are eligible for
tax credits without having to apply individually. These structures
were identified during the application process. Determination of
whether a specific structure is identified as "contributing" or "non-
contributing" may be found on the original application. A copy of
the structure determination may be found at each town hall or from
the National Register of Historic Places.
Williamsport is an incorprated town listed on
the National Register of Historic Places. The
historic structures identified as contributing
structures are eligible for Federal, State, and
Local tax credits.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
Incorporated Towns in Washington County
In September of 1776, Washington County officially became the first county in the newly
declared United States of America to be named for the Commander -in -Chief, General George Wash-
ington. Although many town
Listed on the National Register
Subject to Review?
Hagerstown City Park Historic Dis-
trict
July, 5, 1990
Yes - Hagerstown Preservation
Commission
Hagerstown City Historic District
February 2, 1994
Yes - Hagerstown Preservation
Commission
Hagerstown Commercial Core His-
toric District
January, 17, 1983
Yes - Hagerstown Preservation
Commission
Oak Hill District
September 18, 1987
Yes - Hagerstown Preservation
Commission
Potomac —Broadway Historic District
December 12, 1990
Yes - Hagerstown Preservation
Commission
South Prospect Street District
October 1, 1979
Yes - Hagerstown Preservation
Commission
Town of Boonsboro
December 23, 2005
No
Town of Clear Spring
Eligible
Town of Funkstown, circa 1769
September 8, 2000
No
Town of Hancock
Eligible
Town of Keedysville
October 26, 2001
No
Town of Sharpsburg, 1739
December 24, 2008
No
Town of Smithsburg
Eligible
Town of Williamsport , 1767
October 26, 2001
No
Washington County Historic Districts
Ah
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1 V'TJ :TL jr.
A Short History of Washinaton Coun
1634-17 Prince George's
County
1734-1776 Frederick County
1776 - today Washington
County
The most common name for a
county throughout the United
States is Washington County
named for George Washington
with 31 counties so named. On
September 16?, 1776 Wash-
ington County, Maryland had
the honor of becoming the first
county to be named for Gen-
eral George Washington.
The first European settlers who arrived in Lord Baltimore's
colony of Maryland in 1634 were mostly English Catholics, it took
another one -hundred years before the first land patent was issued
in what is now Washington County. While some of those applying
for the earliest patents in our county were of English descent, it was
the German Protestants emigrating south out of Pennsylvania that
would that would have the greatest impact on the landscape and ar-
chitecture. Settlers such as Jonathan Hager, who Hagerstown would
be named for, and other skilled Germans decidedly had the largest
impact of transforming a wilderness landscape into neat, productive
plantations and towns. The architecture in both their homes and
agricultural buildings is reflective of their Dutch, German, Swiss,
Italian, Ukrainian, and English descent.
As the transportation routes of the rivers, canals and roads to
the area improved, it brought an even larger mix of ethnic groups
to the area. The legacy of these settlers and their descendents is a
diverse accumulation of architectural styles and construction meth-
ods that make Washington County a unique and special place. The
German's fondness for usage of the most readily available building
material of native limestone is reflected in the stone houses, barn
and bridges is still evident in our community, as is the English brick
and log structures. Along the National Road and the Chesapeake
and Ohio Canal many high -style, large, brick and frame building
appeared, reflecting the financial prosperity there. Other more hum-
ble structures were built elsewhere, representing the more common
agricultural settlements. It is fortunate that many of the older build-
ings of our early days remain, and the purpose of these Guidelines
to assist those who wish to preserve and restore these important
aspects of out unique culture.
Architectural Styles
83
Architectural Styles of Washington County
Whether magnificently restored or lovingly maintained, the historic properties that dot Wash-
ington County's rural roads and rolling hills are fine adornments in the rich tapestry comprising
Maryland's diverse history.
Washington County contains examples of a wide variety of styles of eighteenth, nineteenth,
and early twentieth century residential and commercial architecture, including Federal, Greek Re-
vival, Italianate, Second Empire, Queen Anne, Colonial Revival, and Neoclassical Revival styles.
Very rarely are buildings academic, textbook examples of their particular style, rather, most
are vernacular interpretations of high -style, architect -designed structures with numerous modifica-
tions. Through their decorative detailing, these vernacular buildings reflect the influences of popular
styles.
The character -defining elements that define a building's style are particularly important to
preserve and should receive special consideration in planning for maintenance or rehabilitation. The
following paragraphs and illustrations provide an introduction to the historical background and dis-
tinguishing features of the architectural styles most commonly represented throughout Washington
County.
The term vernacular (or folk) architecture generally refers to buildings not planned by an archi-
tect but based upon regional traditions, the materials at hand, and sometimes expedience
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
photo of Old Forge Farm, Washington Jonathan Hager House, believed to have been built in the
et d tort etnno hnmo 17F' Cmithehi,r,,
George Adam Geeting House, crica 1760, Keedysville
Vernacular Forms 18th -19th century
The earliest houses in Washington County do not fit easily into any particular category, but
they can be grouped by several identifying features that reflect the changes in 18th and 19th century
rural domestic architecture.
CHARACTER DEFINING ELEMENTS:
1730s to 1760
Stone, log, or log -encased clapboard over a rough -stone
fountdation. .. r.:
Constructed over a spring
one to one, one -and -a --half, or two stories L
steeply pitched roofs,
large central chimneys,
very small window openings,
batten doors.
puncheon logs and rocks as insulation between the base-
ment and first floor,
1760s to 1790
- Stone, log, or log -encased clapboard over a stone foundation
Usually two -stories
Jack Arches over windows
Gable -end chimneys
More refined cut stones, quoined corners
-• - Mid century structures reflect a
variety of styles. Dependant on 1 " 1790 _��. the ethnic of builder. Styles vary r
a greatly from classic Pennsylva
�� = nia Farmhouses, to more clas =
sic Continental plans.
SS ff
O S �Y
Archit
85
Stone, brick, Clapboard
One to two stories
Often with two front doors
Segmented arches above windows
Gable -end chimney's
1820s to 1860s
Stone, brick, clapboard
one to two stories
Plan lentil above windows.
66 Georgian - 1720 to 1840
Georgian architecture developed in England out of the Classical Revival which dominated
Europe during the Renaissance and Enlightenment. The Georgian style's name comes from the kings
of Great Britain who ruled England while Georgian architecture was popular. From 1714 until 1820
England was ruled by George I, George II, George III, and George IV who reigned in continuous
succession from August 1714 to June 1830. Georgian architecture became unpopular in the United
States at the time of the Revolutionary War as American architects wished to separate their style from
British influence.
CHARACTER DEFINING ELEMENTS:
• Simple 1-2 story box, 2 rooms deep, using strict symmetry arrangements
• Panel front door centered, topped with rectangular windows (in door or as a transom) and capped with
an elaborate crown/entablature supported by decorative pilasters
• Cornice embellished with decorative moldings, usually dentilwork
• Multi -pane windows are never paired, and fenestrations are arranged symmetrically (whether vertical
or horizontal), usually 5 across
• Roof: 40% are Side -gabled; 25% Gambrel; 25% Hipped
• Chimneys on both sides of the home
• A portico in the middle of the roof with a window in the middle is more common with post -Georgian
styles, e.g. "Adam"
• Small 6 -paned sash windows and/or dormer windows in the upper floors, primarily used for servant's
quarters. This was also a way of reducing window tax.
• Larger windows with 9 or 12 panes on the main floors
The Good -Reilly House
in downtown Sharpsburg,
built probably in the 1780s
" "'er William Good, is
(cant example of a
regional adaptation
;eorgian style.
very few Georgian, or Georgian -style houses in Washington County
vere very few settlers in the county at that time with sufficient wealth to
such expensive homes.
easant, built about 1767 by Joseph Chapline, Jr. just outside Sharpsburg
ind exquisite example of a fine Georgian home with its perfect symmetry,
orate ornamentation. Photo from the Maryland Historical Trust.
Architectural Styles
Federal - 1780 to 1840 87
Rose Hill, built in 1804 near Williamsport is one of the finest Federal period
houses in the western part of the state. In addition, it is comparable with
some of the best Federal buildings in Maryland.
Houses of the Federal period, constructed during the first years of the new republic, retained
the general form of their Georgian predecessors, but were characterized by more delicate decorative
detailing that often incorporated elements derived from early Greek and Roman design.
CHARACTER DEFINING ELEMENTS:
• Fanlight over door (almost always rounded, rarely squared), sidelights,
• Classical/Greek detailing of entryway, Palladian windows, balustrades,oval/circular
• rooms in some high -style examples.
• Symmetrical as Georgian style. Windows: double -hung sash windows for first time (Georgian also).
•
Generally Federal in stylistic character though with some
Greek Revival influences in the decorative detailing, Mount
Airy, circa 1820, is just south of Sharpsburg. The large
scale of the structure which is somewhat unusual, and the
elaborate elliptical arched doorway is more commonly found
in the towns.
Woburn Manor south of Downsville is a Federal style
manor house and farmstead complex. Built around 1820,
the house is a 2 1/2 story stuccoed stone dwelling with a
gable roof, facing north. The stucco, an original feature,
is struck to resemble cut block. Tln about 1995 Woburn
Manor was badly in need of restoration. The photo right
ii
Greek Revival — circa 1830-1860
The Greek Revival style spread rapidly across America between 1830 and 1850. Two factors
helped increase the style's popularity. Archaeological excavations during this period increased public
awareness of ancient Greece, and citizens of the new American republic sympathized with modern
Greece's involvement in its war for independence (1821-30).
CHARACTER DEFINING ELEMENTS:
• Low-pitched gable, hipped, or shed roof; gable may face front
• Portico or recessed entrance; pilasters, square posts or classical columns
• Entrance with transom and sidelights
• Broad frieze below cornice, sometimes with rectangular attic windows
• Trim incorporates geometrical forms, "bull's eye" and foliated motifs
he Daniel Donnelly House on Falling Water Road just south of William-
ort is an excellent example of an early- 19th century (c. 1830s) farm -
use, exhibiting influence from the Federal and Greek Revival styles. Its
perior level of architectural detailing reflects the relative prosperity of . its
4 ner during a period when the region's grain -based agricultural economy
r
as maturing.
f him y� I Ii Ii
Few houses in Washington County built from 1820-1860 display
Greek Revival features to the extent of Plumb Grove (the Nesbitt -
Warner
House) on Broadfording Road at Clear Spring.
Architectural Styles [jUi1HH'''
Italianate/Italian Villa c. 1830-1880
The Italianate style developed as part of the Picturesque movement, which was a reaction
against classical formality. The style has two basic forms. Italianate buildings based on Renaissance
models are rectangular in plan with symmetrical facades, while the "Italian Villa" type is based on
the designs of rural farmhouses in Italy and are characterized by an asymmetrical L- or T-shaped floor
plan with a tall tower.
CHARACTER DEFINING ELEMENTS:
• Low-pitched gable or hipped roof (attached buildings may have shed roofs)
• Eave cornice with decorative brackets
• Walls are given a smooth finish; finely coursed brickwork with narrow mortar joints is typical; cut stone
and stucco were also used
• Enriched detailing such as string courses and quoins
• Tall, narrow windows, often with round -arched heads
• Windows may have elaborate frames, hoods, bracketed lintels, or pediments
• Porch or arcade may span the facade, or a small portico may define the entrance
The William Hagerman house on Dam #4
Road is significant as an example of an 1860s
vernacular interpretation of the Italianate archi-
tectural style. The above early undated photo
show the many fine details still intact. Photo left
about 2002 when the house restoration began.
This house was listed on the National Register
of Historic Places in 2002.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
90
Second Empire c. 1860-1890
The Second Empire style is most readily recognized by the characteristic mansard roof; a hipped
roof of double pitch. The lower slopes of the roof, just above the building walls, are steeply pitched to
create a usable upper story lighted by dormer windows. This roof form is named for the 17th -century
French architect Francois Mansart. The style become popular in France during the Second Empire
(1852-70), and spread to the United States in the 1860's.
CHARACTER DEFINING ELEMENTS:
• Generally symmetrical, rectangular in plan and 2 1/2 stories high
• May have a projecting entrance mansard roof, usually covered in slate; sometimes slates of various
shapes and colors are used to create intricate patterns
• Lower slopes of roof may be straight, convex, or concave windows may be topped with semicircular
or segmental arches, and often have bold molded heads
91
Queen Anne and other Victorian Styles c. 1880-1910
The Queen Anne style is derived from medieval English architectural forms.
CHARACTER DEFINING ELEMENTS:
• Asymmetrical plan and massing
• Variety of surface treatments, textures, and colors
• Elaborate decorative trim, shingles and brickwork
• Irregular roof line with multiple steep gables
• Conical -roofed tower at corner
• Facade may have various projecting bays
• Row houses often have second -story oriel windows
• Porch may span facade, sometimes wraps around comer of building
• Double -hung windows often have multiple small lights in upper sash; sometimes forming a border
around a single large pane. These small lights may be either clear or include colored stained-glass
windows and transoms.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
92
Colonial Revival c. 1876-1920
The American Centennial of 1876 prompted a revival of interest in the nation's heritage. As a
result, architects began to study the building forms and detailing of the Colonial period. The return
to these historical precedents was partly a reaction against the unrestrained exuberance that char-
acterized Victorian design. Colonial Revival buildings often combine turn -of -the -century building
forms with decorative elements derived from eighteenth -century architecture. This detailing is often
over -scaled, and sometimes incorporates features of the Queen Anne style, whose period of popularity
overlapped that of the Colonial Revival.
CHARACTER DEFINING ELEMENTS:
• Generally symmetrical facade, 2- or 2-1/2 story height
• Gabled, hipped, or gambrel roof form
• Masonry or frame construction
• Brick may be laid in Flemish bond pattern
• Frame buildings covered with wood siding in bevel profile, or with wood shingles
• Multi -pane sash windows
• Porches may have heavy tapered columns and balustrades with square or turned
balusters
• Entrance located in the center of the facade, with transom and sidelights (often of
leaded glass)
Architectural Styles
93
Classical Revival c. 1900-1920
Developed in America in the first quarter of the 20th century, this style was popular for public
and commercial buildings; its monumentality was frequently used in the construction of bank build-
ings. The Neoclassical Revival employed features from Greek antiquity such as Ionic and Corinthian
columns and pedimented porticoes to embellish balanced, regular compositions. Wall surfaces were
smooth and often were finished in fine materials such as marble.
CHARACTER DEFINING ELEMENTS:
nificant for the symmetrical arrangement of and the interplay of shapes and lines formed by the
Renaissance windows, with pediments, entablatures, and Roman Ionic columns in antis support-
ing a large semicircular pediment above the entranceway. Guidelines for Historic Preservation
94
Twentieth Century 1900-1950
The modern styles of architecture are a result of America's efforts to design inexpensive housing
that was eye -pleasing and functional but could be built quickly to keep up with the fast paced affects
of the industrial revolution. Builders discontinued constructing elaborate Victorian styles in favor of
homes that were compact, economical, and informal.
Probably the best known and most predominant of Washington County's 20th century ar-
chitecture is the American Foursquare. Known by a variety of terms including box house, a cube, a
double cube or a square type American house. It first appeared about 1890 and remained popular well
into the 1930s. In essence a box, or two stacked boxes, the American Foursquare lent itself to endless
variations and finish details by individual buyers.
Ranch -style houses, also known as the American ranch, California ranch, rambler or rancher,
is another of the domestic architectural styles that has now aged sufficiently to have become of inter-
est. First built in the 1920s, the ranch style was extremely popular amongst the booming post-war
middle class of the 1940s to 1970s. The ranch house is noted for its long, close -to -the -ground profile,
and minimal use of exterior and interior decoration.
CHARACTER DEFINING ELEMENTS:
• Foursquare:
Simple floor plan
Boxy, cubic shape
Full width front porch with columnar supports and wide stairs
Offset front entry in an otherwise symmetrical facade
Two to two and a half stories
Pyramidal, hipped roof, often with wide eaves
Large central dormer
Large single light windows in front, otherwise double hung
Incorporated design elements from other contemporaneous styles, but usually in simple applications
• Ranch Style:
Single Story
Horizontal, rambling layout: Long, narrow, and low to the ground
Rectangular, L-shaped, or U-shaped design
Simple floor -plans
Architectural Styles
95
Commercial Buildings 1890s-1930
Commercial buildings dating from 1890-1930 are distinguished by large windows arranged in
groups on their facades. Developed in Chicago in the 1890's, this style drew upon the structural in-
novation of steel -frame construction, which enabled much larger window openings than were possible
with traditional bearing wall masonry. Beginning in the 1870s, molded, glazed terra cotta became a
popular substitute for carved stone and it was used extensively to finish commercial building facades
in the early 20th century. Terra cotta was popular at this time because it could be used to mimic
much costlier stone such as marble and granite.
CHARACTER DEFINING ELEMENTS:
• Vertical emphasis 2-4 stories in height
• Flat roofs
• Masonry wall surfaces
• Three part windows or projecting bay windows
• Decorative cornices
• Steel and beam construction
• Ground floor storefronts
The National Register district of Williamport along Cono-
cocheague Street is an excellent assembly of commercial
architecture spanning almost a century.
operation for National Road travelers until it closed in 1975. In 1983, Frances
and Lewis Horst rescued the Wilson store and schoolhouse, and have
restored them to their heyday splendor. Guidelines for Historic Preservation
Ecclesiastical Architecture
Ecclesiological architecture was dramatically influenced by Eng-
lish architect James Barr's book entitled Anglican Church Archi-
tecture. The book was first published in 1842 and is dedicated to
the Oxford Society for Promoting the Study of Gothic Architec-
ture. A second edition followed in 1843, and a third in 1846.
St. Mark's Episcopal Church near Lappan's crossroads exempli-
fies the influence of the Ecclesiological movement in the design
of Episcopal parish churches in rural Washington County. In the
1840s, the Cambridge Camden Society (later the Ecclesiological
Society) began an active campaign to promote the Gothic style
associated with medieval English parish churches as the model
Inc dnnliran/GniennnaI Mn, lone of loin rchin in Amnrina 1n ifc from
building sited on the north side of East High Street in
Sharpsburg, along the east side of an alley. It is a single
pen, corner post log structure on a limestone foundation. A
sandstone cornerstone is located in the southwest corner
of the foundation inscribed "[TO]LSON'S CH[A]PEL."There
is an indication of a date below the name but it cannot be
deciphered. The heavy hewn logs are mortised into corner
posts. Diagonal corner braces extend upward from the sill
to the corner posts, making the building a hybrid log/braced
frame structure.
97
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
Architectural Styles
Ah
71
Am
•p
[]
0
100
Secretary of the Interior Standards
More than two thousand cities, towns, and counties in
the United States have adopted historic preservation ordinances
and design guidelines for protecting and rehabilitating historic
structures. They have done so out of a concern for the public ap-
pearance of their communities,
The Standards are neither technical nor prescriptive, but are and in order to preserve their
intended to promote responsible preservation practices heritage, protect property val-
Preservation, Rehabilitation, Restoration
or Reconstruction? Choosing the most
appropriate treatment for a building requires
careful decision -making about a building's
historical significance. This dilapidated
smoke house along Spielman Road is
in very poor condition, yet stone smoke
houses are very rare.
ues, and encourage civic pride.
In these jurisdictions, historic
preservation commissions or similar governmental entities are
charged with reviewing construction applications. They strive to
protect the unique qualities of individual historic structures and
ensure that buildings do not fall into decay. For historic prop-
erties in Washington County, this review entity is the Historic
District Commission.
These guidelines provide the Historic District Commis-
sion (HDC) and property owners with guidance on appropriate
methods for the upkeep and rehabilitation of the county's his-
toric buildings. They also assist in the design of new construc-
tion in historic districts, whether these are additions to existing
structures or entirely new buildings. The guidelines do not seek
to prevent change. Change is inevitable in any living town, and
these guidelines are aimed at ensur-
ng that change is appropriate to the
nique character of each property. The
DC uses the guidelines and applies
he Secretary of the Interior's Standards
or Rehabilitation to evaluate the ap-
ropriateness of changes to a building
nd to the Historic District as a whole.
roperty owners can use these guide-
101
lines to identify what kinds of treatments are effective and ap-
propriate, and to better understand what will be approved by the
HDC
These Design Guidelines have been created to assist own-
ers and tenants of historic buildings to maintain, preserve and
enhance the character of their property. The guidelines are also
intended to assist architects, engineers, contractors and others in-
volved in maintaining and enhancing the buildings, open spaces
and landscapes within the historic districts to plan and imple-
ment projects that preserve and enhance the character of those
districts. In addition, the guidelines provide assistance when un-
dertaking new construction, both additions to existing buildings
as well as entirely new buildings, within the historic districts
Preservation
Focuses on the mainte-
nance and repair of exist-
ing historic materials and
retention of a property's
form as it has evolved over
time. (
Rehabilitation
Acknowledges the need to
alter or add to a historic
Overview property to meet continu-
ing or changing uses while
The Standards are neither technical nor prescriptive, but
retaining the property's
are intended to promote responsible preservation practices that historic character.
help protect our Nation's irreplaceable cultural resources. For ex-
ample, they cannot, in and of themselves, be used to make es-
sential decisions about which features of the historic building Restoration
should be saved and which can be changed. But once a treatment Is undertaken to depict a
is selected, the Standards provide philosophical consistency to
the work. property at a particular
The four treatment approaches are Preservation, Reha- period of time in its his-
bilitation, Restoration, and Reconstruction, outlined below in tory, while removing evi-
hierarchical order and explained: dence of other periods.
The first treatment, Preservation, places a high premium
on the retention of all historic fabric through conservation, main-
tenance and repair. It reflects a building's continuum over time, Reconstruction
through successive occupancies, and the respectful changes and Re-creates vanished or
alterations that are made. non -surviving portions of
Rehabilitation, the second treatment, emphasizes the re-
tention and repair of historic materials, but more latitude is pro- a property for interpretive
purposes.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
102
`guidelines do not seek to 'prevent change.
Change is inevitable in any living town"
vided for replacement because it is assumed the
property is more deteriorated prior to work.
(Both Preservation and Rehabilitation stan-
dards focus attention on the preservation of
those materials, features, finishes, spaces, and
spatial relationships that, together, give a property its historic
character.)
Restoration, the third treatment, focuses on the retention
of materials from the most significant time in a property's history,
while permitting the removal of materials from other periods.
Reconstruction, the fourth treatment, establishes limited
opportunities to recreate a non -surviving site, landscape, build-
ing, structure, or object in all new materials.
Choosing the most appropriate treatment for a building
requires careful decision -making about a building's histori-
cal significance, as well taking into account a number of other
considerations:
Relative importance in history. Is the building a nation-
ally significant resource — a rare survivor or the work of a master
architect or craftsman? Did an important event take place in it?
National Historic Landmarks, designated for their "exceptional
significance in American history," or many buildings individu-
ally listed in the National Register often warrant Preservation
or Restoration. Buildings that contribute to the significance of
a historic district but are not individually listed in the National
Register more frequently undergo Rehabilitation for a compatible
new use.
Physical condition. What is the existing condition — or
degree of material integrity — of the building prior to work? Has
the original form survived largely intact or has it been altered
over time? Are the alterations an important part of the build-
ing's history? Preservation may be appropriate if distinctive ma-
terials, features, and spaces are essentially intact and convey the
building's historical significance. If the building requires more
The Standards
103
extensive repair and replacement, or if alterations or additions are
necessary for a new use, then Rehabilitation is probably the most
appropriate treatment. These key questions play major roles in
determining what treatment is selected.
Proposed use. An essential, practical question to ask is:
Will the building be used as it was
historically or will it be given a new
use? Many historic buildings can be
adapted for new uses without serious-
ly damaging their historic character;
special -use properties such as grain
silos, forts, ice houses, or windmills
may be extremely difficult to adapt to
new uses without major intervention
and a resulting loss of historic charac-
ter and even integrity.
Mandated code requirements.
Regardless of the treatment, code re-
quirements will need to be taken into
consideration. But if hastily or poor-
ly designed, a series of code -required actions may jeopardize a
building's materials as well as its historic character. Thus, if a
building needs to be seismically upgraded, modifications to the
historic appearance should be minimal. Abatement of lead paint
and asbestos within historic buildings requires particular care if
important historic finishes are not to be adversely affected. Final-
ly, alterations and new construction needed to meet accessibility
requirements under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990
should be designed to minimize material loss and visual change
to a historic building.
The Hager House circa 1739, is listed on the
National Register of Historic Places. In the
1950s it was just another dilapidated stone
structure destined for demolition.
An excellent example of PRESERVATION,
using a property as it was HISTORICALLY.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
104
Standards for Preservations
Rehabilitation of a charming 19th century
stone springhouse apartment. Still used as
a springhouse, this structure has had no
alterations or additions that have altered
its true identity. All work on this structure
were completed in such a manner that none
of the original architectural features were
altered.
Preservation is defined as the act or process of applying
measures necessary to sustain the existing form, integrity, and
materials of an historic property. Work, including preliminary
measures to protect and stabilize the property, generally focuses
upon the ongoing maintenance and repair of historic materials and
features rather than extensive replacement and new construction.
New exterior additions are not within the scope of this treatment;
however, the limited and sensitive upgrading of mechanical, elec-
trical, and plumbing systems and other code -required work to
make properties functional is appropriate within a preservation
project.
1. A property will be used as it was historically, or be given a new use that
maximizes the retention of distinctive materials, features, spaces, and spatial re-
lationships. Where a treatment and use have not been identified, a property will
be protected and, if necessary, stabilized until
additional work may be undertaken.
2. The historic character of a property will
be retained and preserved. The replacement
of intact or repairable historic materials or
alteration of features, spaces, and spatial rela-
tionships that characterize a property will be
avoided.
3. Each property will be recognized as a physi-
cal record of its time, place, and use. Work
needed to stabilize, consolidate, and conserve
existing historic materials and features will be
physically and visually compatible, identifi-
able upon close inspection, and properly docu-
mented for future research.
4. Changes to a property that have acquired
historic significance in their own right will be
retained and preserved.
The Standards
105
5. Distinctive materials, features, finishes, and construction techniques or ex-
amples of craftsmanship that
characterize a property will be preserved.
6. The existing condition of historic features will be evaluated to determine the
appropriate level of intervention needed. Where the severity of deterioration
requires repair or limited replacement of a distinctive feature, the new material
will match the old in composition, design, color, and texture.
7. Chemical or physical treatments, if appropriate, will be undertaken using the
gentlest mean possible. Treatments that cause damage to historic materials will
not be used.
8. Archeological resources will be protected and preserved in place. If such re-
sources must be disturbed,
mitigation measures will be undertaken.
Standards for Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation is defined as the act or process of making
possible a compatible use for a property through repair, altera-
tions, and additions while preserving those portions or features
which convey its historical, cultural, or architectural values.
1. A property shall be used for its historic purpose or be placed in a new use
that requires minimal change to the defining characteristics of the building
and its site and environment.
2. The historic character of a property shall be retained and preserved. The
removal of historic materials or alteration of features and spaces that charac-
terize a property shall be avoided.
3. Each property shall be recognized as a physical record of its time, place, and
use. Changes that create a false sense of historical development, such as add-
ing conjectural features or architectural elements from other buildings, shall
not be undertaken.
4. Most properties change over time; those changes that have acquired his-
toric significance in their own right shall be retained and preserved.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
106
An candidate for RESTORATION in Sharps -
burg. This 18th century stone home in
Sharpsburg originally had a standard gable
roof and a small stoop for a front entry.
Restoration would be restoring the house to
it's correct late 18th century appearance.
5. Distinctive features, finishes, and construc-
tion techniques or examples of craftsmanship that
characterize a property shall be preserved.
6. Deteriorated historic features shall be repaired
rather than replaced. Where the severity of de-
terioration requires replacement of a distinctive
feature, the new feature shall match the old in de-
sign, color, texture, and other visual qualities and,
where possible, materials. Replacement of missing
features shall be substantiated by documentary,
physical, or pictorial evidence.
7. Chemical or physical treatments, such as sand-
blasting, that cause damage to historic materials
shall not be used. The surface cleaning of struc-
tures, if appropriate, shall be undertaken using the
gentlest means possible.
8. Significant archeological resources affected by a
project shall be protected and preserved. If such resources must be disturbed,
mitigation measures shall be undertaken.
9. New additions, exterior alterations, or related new construction shall not
destroy historic materials that characterize the property. The new work shall
be differentiated from the old and shall be compatible with the massing, size,
scale, and architectural features to protect the historic integrity of the prop-
erty and its environment.
10. New additions and adjacent or related new construction shall be under-
taken in such a manner that if removed in the future, the essential form and
integrity of the historic property and its environment would be unimpaired.
Standards for Restoration
Restoration is defined as the act or process of accurately
depicting the form, features, and character of a property as it ap-
peared at a particular period of time by means of the removal
of features from other periods in its history and reconstruction
of missing features from the restoration period. The limited and
sensitive upgrading of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing sys-
The Standards
107
tems and other code -required work to
make properties functional is appro-
priate within a restoration project.
1. A property will be used as it was histori-
cally or be given a new use which reflects the
property's restoration period.
2. Materials and features from the restora-
tion period will be retained and preserved.
The removal of materials or alteration of fea-
tures, spaces, and spatial relationships that
characterize the period will not be under-
taken.
3. Each property will be recognized as a
physical record of its time, place, and use.
Work needed to stabilize, consolidate and
conserve materials and features from the restoration period will be physical-
ly and visually compatible, identifiable upon close inspection, and properly
documented for future research.
4. Materials, features, spaces, and finishes that characterize other historical
periods will be documented prior to their alteration or removal.
5. Distinctive materials, features, finishes, and construction techniques or ex-
amples of craftsmanship that characterize the restoration period will be pre-
served.
6. Deteriorated features from the restoration period will be repaired rather
than replaced. Where the severity of deterioration requires replacement of a
distinctive feature, the new feature will match the old in design, color, tex-
ture, and, where possible, materials.
7. Replacement of missing features from the restoration period will be sub-
stantiated by documentary and physical evidence. A false sense of history will
not be created by adding conjectural features, features from other properties,
or by combining features that never existed together historically.
8. Chemical or physical treatments, if appropriate, will be undertaken using
the gentlest means possible. Treatments that cause damage to historic materi-
als will not be used.
Before RECONSTRUCTION efforts began,
this late 18th century stone home on the
Western Pike had been uninhabited for a
quarter -of -a -century and was suffering from
demolition by neglect.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
108
9. Archeological resources affected by a project will be protected and pre-
served in place. If such resources must be disturbed, mitigation measures will
be undertaken.
10. Designs that were never executed historically will not be constructed.
Standards for Reconstruction
Reconstruction is defined as the act or process of depict-
ing, by means of new construction, the form, features, and de-
tailing of a non -surviving site, landscape, building, structure, or
object for the purpose of replicating its appearance at a specific
period of time and in its historic location.
1. Reconstruction will be used to depict vanished or non -surviving portions
of a property when documentary and physical evidence is available to permit
accurate reconstruction with minimal conjecture, and such reconstruction is
essential to the public understanding of the property.
2. Reconstruction of a landscape, building, structure, or object in its historic
location will be preceded by a thorough archeological investigation to identify
and evaluate those features and artifacts which are essential to an accurate re-
construction. If such resources must be disturbed, mitigation measures will be
undertaken.
3. Reconstruction will include measures to preserve any remaining historic ma
terials, features, and spatial relationships.
4. Reconstruction will be based on the accurate duplication of historic features
and elements substantiated by documentary or physical evidence rather than on
conjectural designs or the availability of different features from other historic
properties. A reconstructed property will re-create the appearance of the non -
surviving historic property in materials, design, color, and texture.
5. A reconstruction will be clearly identified as a contemporary re-creation.
6. Designs that were never executed historically will not be constructed.
The Standards
110
Great place for Before and After pies
Design Review Process
Preserving the unique character of Washington County's
early building allows the county to provide a physical reminder of
the county's rich heritage for present and future generations.
The Design Guidelines are made available to assist owners of
historic buildingsan understanding of how the historic preserva-
tion ordinances affect their plans to maintain, preserve, or enhance
their properties. The information provided in this section will assist
you with planning and implementing your projects. By providing
property owners the guidelines used to evaluate the appropriateness
of changes to a structure prior to applications, we hope to make the
application and review process more efficient for all involved.
The goal is to preserve the physical character of these areas,
not to challenge or compete with them. Restoration or rehabilita-
tion of a historic structure should be approached thoughtfully and
carefully in order not to destroy or otherwise permanently eradicate
important features. Any new construction in the districts needs to
be carefully designed so that the new building respects its historic
setting and is considered a "background" design, that is, one that
does not draw attention to itself at the expense of its historic neigh-
bors.
The •HDC's Design Guidelines are based on the guidance
provided by the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilita-
tion. The HDC abides by the Standards and we refer to the Stan-
dards when we make our decisions regarding the appropriateness of
the applications presented for review. In evaluating applications for
a certificate of appropriateness, an HDC must determine whether
the proposed action or alterations are "not incongruous" with the
visual and historic character of the specific district. Rather than
relying on individual taste or preference, members base their delib-
erations on these design guidelines and evaluate their applicability
to the specific property. Legitimate decisions by the HDC are based
on fair consideration of the individual application and consistent
reference to established standards. Every application is weighed on
its own merits, the deliberations and decisions of the body are not
arbitrary or capricious.
We encourage you to read and review the design standards
before making application to the county for a permit. Every attempt
has been made to make these guidelines "user friendly." Photos of
111
local examples will assist you in planning a project that will ulti-
mately be effective and historically appropriate.
Is my house or building historic?
Every house and building is an integral part of local history.
Your house has its own story to tell. Whether it is 50 -years old or
250 years old, it is important because there is no other like it. Wash-
ington County is unique in having a wonderful inventory of well
built older houses and buildings of fine character. Every structure,
even those that lack outstanding architectural merit, adds to this
overall character. Generally, properties over 50 years old are classi-
fied as the basis for historic status.
Is the building's style worth saving?
. You bet it is. Keeping up or reclaiming the character and in-
tegrity of a classic older home will not only add beauty in your life,
it will help assure neighborhood stability and will increase the value
of your property. An older building is usually made of finer materi-
als, built with better workmanship, with more attention to details.
All of this grows more valuable with the passage of time. Helping
your house or building achieve its best potential is giving it back its
former dignity.
How do I research it's histo?y?
The first thing you can do is take a good long look at your
house or building. Look at it with fresh eyes --notice the details and
uniqueness within it. Look into the past to learn when it was built
and/or what style it is, or who has lived there. Next, determine the
course of action best suited for your classic structure, whether you're
preserving, restoring, renovating, or only researching its history.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
Context
Site Features
113
Viewsheds
A viewshed is the view a person has to
or from a resource, typically described as a 600
cone of vision, of a stationary observer. The views
to and from historic resources within a historic
district, particularly those located in rural ar-
eas, contribute significantly to their character.
In some cases, the view of a resource may be
framed by rows of trees along a drive way, in
other cases the view may be of the resource set
within fields and pastures. Views from a re-
source are just as varied, ranging from views
of the Potomac River from the front porches of
views of a distant woods across open fields from significant acces-
sory buildings.
GUIDELINES
1. Historic viewsheds to and from historic buildings
and structures should be maintained, particularly those
related to the primary elevations of the resource._
2. If possible, intrusions into viewsheds should be re-
moved or masked with appropriate vegetation.
We need to take our own picture are this one is likely copyrighted and stolen.
l IIV UUIIIUJEICU tjUO/!Lj VI Ul6 OLVI IC IIVUJ6,
outbuildings, stone fences, and ancient
trees overlooking the Antietam Creek work
together to create an outstanding vista just
south ofAntietam Battlefield.
The viewshed of Red Hill as if overlooks An-
tietam Battlefield is so important to the syn-
ergy of this National Park Battlefield that the
County Commissioners authorized the pro-
tection of this vista by enacting a local zoning
ordinance for if's protection.
Design Guidelines
114
Landforms and Features _
Landforms and features include
hills, valleys, streams, rivers, woods and
open fields as well as man made forms
and features such.as road embankments
and cuts, railroad bridges, dams and
the like. Collectively, landforms and
features help define the context of the
historic resources.
The rolling hills, stream, woodland, and GUI GUIDELINES
open fields combine beautifully to create a
peaceful, natural and man-madelandform 3. Historic Iandforms and features should be preserved
along Garrett's Mill Road in southern Wash-
ington County as much as possible.
4. Any changes made to landforms and features sur-
rounding a historic resource should be compatible with
the existing forms and features. An archaeological as-
sessment should be made prior to any changes.
The imposing, man-made landform of Sidling Hill
roadcut. The 340 feet deep notch was excavated
from the ridge of Sideling Hill for Interstate 68,
about 7 miles west of Hancock in Washington
County, Maryland. It is notable as an impressive
man-made mountain pass, visible from miles
away and is considered one of the best rock ex-
posures in Maryland and the entire northeastern
United States.
P!a tine s an La r sca es _ ...__.- ._.____.....
Trees, hedgerows, shrubs, cultivated fields, and formal and
informal gardens are among the historic plantings and landscapes
that are important historic features in Washington County. Along
with landforms and features, they provide the setting for the ma-
jority of the historic resources in the county. Unlike most materials
used in historic buildings and structures, plantings and landscapes
are subject to change from season to season and from year to year.
Existing plantings should be maintained by fertilizing, pruning,
treating for disease or in other appropriate ways. Dead and dis-
eased plants should be removed and replaced with healthy speci-
mens. Working landscapes should be preserved as much as pos-
sible, particularly within the viewsheds of the buildings.
Never remove healthy plantings and landscapes that are sig-
nificant to defining the character of a historic property or replace
missing, diseased or deteriorated plantings and landscapes with very
different species. Mature plantings often set the context of both where's the oldest tree in
public and private spaces in historic districts
z GUIDELINES
5. Plantings and landscapes
that are significant to defining
the character of a historic re-
source should be retained.
6. Diseased or deteriorat-
ed plantings and landscapes
that are significant to defining
the character of a historic re-
source should be replaced with
healthy specimens of identical
or similar species.
Finding a historic planting that is original will
be difficult.. Taking a picture in the dead of
winter even tougher.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
ii6
An outstanding cut -limestone barnyard
fence circa 1830 on Shaffer Road south of
Downsville. The exterior walls are of native
limestone and stand over 20 feet tall at the
highest point creating a loafing'areaforlve-
stock just beyond the barn.
Fences and Walls - ..._._.... -
A variety of fences and walls are found
defining the boundaries of many of the historic
districts in Washington County. While some
are merely decorative, most are functional, con-
fining livestock and pets, protecting fields and
providing security and privacy. Stacked or mor-
tared limestone or wood are the most common
wall and fence materials. Stylistically, the de-
sign of fences and walls are often related to the
principal structures on the property. Distinctive
gates and corner posts are also distinguishing
features of many historic fences and walls.
Do not remove or relocate fences and walls that are signifi-
cant to defining the overall character of a historic district. Repairing
significant fences and walls in a manner that is in keeping with their
original design and construction.
Design Guidelines
117
GUIDELINES
7. Fences and walls that are significant in defining
the overall character of a historic district should be re-
tained and preserved.
8. Repair deteriorated fences and walls, including their
decorative features and ornamentation.
9. Repaint previously painted fences and walls in col-
ors that are appropriate to their design and to the de-
sign of the principal buildings on the property.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
118
riveways, Walkways and Parking
Great walks and entryways are not just for
townhouses as evidence by this late Victo-
rian located on the Marsh Pike.
long driveway...
Design Guidelines
The design of driveways, walkways and
_ s
' `parking areas in town centers tend to be dramat-
�e ically different than those found in rural areas.
Within the historic town centers, driveways are
f.
o typically short, straight and paved in concrete
�e r asphalt.lhe public walkways usually parallel
the streets and separated from private walks by a
step or change in grade. Parking areas are either
onstreet or in asphalt parking lots. On the oth-
er hand, driveways in rural areas are typically
long, often curved, and paved in gravel. Often
gateposts flank the entry to the drive and trees line the driveway.
Walkways that connect the driveway or parking area to the house
are made of a variety of materials including gravel, concrete, brick
and stone. Parking areas may be formal if designed as a motor court
fronting a garage, or informal when associated with accessory build-
ings such as barns.
Is is not recommended removing or relocating walkways,
driveways and parking areas that are significant to defining the
overall character of a property. Repair significant walkways, drive-
ways and parking areas in a manner that are in keeping with the
original design and construction.
119
0 GUIDELINES
1O.Walkways, driveways and parking areas that are
significant in defining the overall character of a proper-
ty should be retained and preserved.
11. Repair deteriorated surfaces of walkways, drive-
ways and parking areas using the same materials, col-
ors, textures and designs, to duplicate the appearance
of the original. Mature trees,
gateway and lanterns mark
historic district driveway
The rustic gate and fencing are both charm-
ing and historically accurate to the Robert
Claggett Home circa 1770.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
120
Late 18th century stone barn on Spielman
Road under restoration. Need more details
Rob
Design Guidelines
4cces Q uildings---------.----.
In the rural areas, accessory buildings often
called out -buildings, devoted to a variety of domes-
tic and agricultural uses complement most of the
residential buildings. Historically, barns, storage
sheds, kitchens, wells and privies were located near
the main house, while barns and other agricultur-
al structures were scattered across the landscape.
Sometimes accessory buildings are clustered around
a central open space or parking area; other times
they are informally arranged, conforming to topo-
graphic features. Many accessory buildings are sig-
nificant in their own right due to their siting, scale,
design, materials of construction, detailing or function. Some ac-
cessory buildings may be distinguished by the presence of historic
signs. Agricultural product signs, tobacco advertisements and the
like were sometimes displayed on visually prominent buildings. In
cases where fading, painted, historic mural signs —ghost signs" —
are present they should left as found. Their presence contributes to
the context of the historic rural environment.
Do not remove, relocate or destroy significant accessory
buildings or ones that are significant to the principal building on
rl,P property. Replace deteriorated
stroyed accessory buildings
jnes that are appropriate in
proportion, design, and sit -
the principal building and
historic accessory build -
121
* GUIDELINES
12.Accessory buildings that significantly
contribute to the principal structure or are
significant in their own right should be re-
tained and preserved, including their sit-
ing, orientation, design, scale, materials of
construction and detailing.
13. Deteriorated accessory buildings,
and their distinctive features and details
should be repaired if necessary, using the
same materials or ones that are similar in
scale, form, texture and color.
barn and all the other outbuildings on this
small farm on Tommytown Road have been
very well -kept since built early last century.
14.Missing accessory buildings or those that are dete-
riorated beyond repair may be replaced with new ones
that should resemble the original in siting, scale, pro-
portion, fenestration, materials and color as closely as
possible.
A clapboard barn, wagon shed, chicken house, calf -pen, garage,
tool shed, and outhouse all painted to compliment the late Victorian
home near Downsville.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
122
A rare blacksmith shop along Dam #4 Road now serves as a garage.
Barns, Icehouse Springho use. Smokehouse...
A very rare 18th century Ice House near Taylor's Land- ..
ing. Once dilapidated, the owners restored the 20 -foot
descending stairway with stone arched ceiling that leads " �"
down to a remarkable high vaulted ceiling for ice storage. _ �r��� rt P .ice. l -•Ly fi }�� FtL I��y
E
lY
• 4 ti a.. "°. ..":#., e fiT' Y Pei 3
k 49.. •:;
4 Yy
e 1 ,
1A springhouse built otter a tiny natural well along Shafer Road, and a
sprioghouse over a large natural spring. at Cearfoss - boith have been
carefully restored.
Design Guidelines
123
The two most common barn types in this county are the Standard
Barn and Swisser, or Swiss Barn. A standard barn has two even
7 gables (below), a Swisser Barn has one gable longer than the other
s ` (left). Either style can be a bank barn meaning it is built into the side,
> 9 , or bank of a hill
h
- a - pis —�e
.e. ,'gym 1 .r-. - .$ter• ..,' 4 _
� I
Early barns have a removable large board directly inside the main
doors. The board was removed to create a downdraft while farmers i r
beat or Threshed" wheat inside the barn keeping the dust to a mini E fi
as
mum. It is reputed to be the ongrn of the term 'threshold. '� ,a p
.Workshops and Sheds
Smokehouse, summer Kitchen, or springhouse? A smokehouse has no chimney as in the restored smokehouse on Greystone Manor (below left). A
slow burning fire creates smoky creosote, a nasty but effective preservative for food. A summer kitchen, or detached kitchen (below right) has a large
fireplace for cooking. A springhouse is self-explanatory,
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
124
---
Archaeology is the study of human life in the past through
the analysis of material remains. Archaeological resources include
foundations of destroyed buildings, old wells, cisterns, privies,
walkways, driveways, refuse piles and artifacts remaining from
human habitation and use of a property. Archaeological artifacts
include crockery, glassware, fittings of farm machinery, arrow-
heads and any other manufactured or shaped material. Archaeo-
logical resources yield information about the past inhabitants and
use of a property that may not be obtainable from written or other
documentary sources.
The HDC encourages all property owners to consider in-
cluding an archaeological assessment for projects they are under-
taking. An assessment will determine if archaeology should be
done before a project is started. The assessment includes a detailed
review of historical, environmental and previous survey data.
County planning staff can lend support to property owners
who either need or wish to include an archaeological assessment
No clue here, maybe a local arrowhead? or as part of their project. In most cases, staff can perform the .as -
some great pottery shards? Remember the sessment at no cost to the property owner.
Staffordshire Hoard!
5. Professional archaeological
ssessments should be made be
re any ground disturbing projects
kes place. -
. Known archaeological sites
id resources should be retained
id preserved using appropriate
ethods and techniques.
Design Guidelines
125
Cemeteries and Historical Markers -----------------..__._._ ..............._..__._.__--
Cemeteries are also important sources of information about
the history of Washington County and are protected by State laws.
Tombstones may provide information on the lifespan, gender and
occupation, as well as other information, about the people who lived
in the county. The tombstones themselves, along with fences that
surround graves and cemeteries, may be significant architectural
features in their own right.
Washington County is bordered on the north by one of the
most famous boundaries in the United States. In 1763, Charles Ma-
son and Jeremiah Dixon landed themonumental task of resolving
an 80 year property dispute between the Calvert family of Mary-
land and Penn family of Pennsylvania, and were asked to lay stone
markers indicating the boundary. The effort took five years. The
boundary began at 15 miles south of the southern most tip of the
city of Philadelphia and followed a constant latitude west to a point
between western Pennsylvania and what we now call West Virginia.
Recent GPS measurements taken reveal that the line was off the
mark by as little as one inch in some places and never more than
800 feet.
The stones —huge blocks of limestone between 3.5 and 5 feet
long and weighing between 300 and 600 pounds —were quarried in.
Southern Great Britain and shipped to America. Carried by wagon
to their final resting place on the line, the stones were placed at one -
mile intervals. Mile markers were decorated with vertical fluting
and a P on the north face and M on the southern face; every fifth
mile along the line the stones were engraved with the Penn coat of
arms on the Pennsylvania side and the Calvert coat of arms on the
other.
GUIDELINES
17. Tombstones, fences, gateways and other signifi-
cant features of cemeteries should be retained and
preserved.
The Old National Pike Milestones were
laid beginning at the Baltimore courthouse,
spaced one mile apart and placed on the
north side of the National Pike, primar-
ily MD Route 144, but also found along
sections of U.S. Route 40, Alf. U.S. Route
40, MD Route 165, and "Scenic 40" west of
Hancock.
The first 39 stones are of Baltimore gneiss
from the Ellicott City area. From West
Friendship through Frederick to Boones-
boro, the material is quartzite, plentiful along
the Monocacy River. From Boonesboro to
Funkstown, a very white limestone was
used and also a different stone cutters
whose lettering is very distinctive. West
of Hagerstown, the stones are of a gray
limestone. Sixty-nine stones remained on
the route at the time of nomination to the
National Register.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
126
18. Toppled tombstones should be righted and re -an-
chored using techniques and tools appropriate to the
type of historic stone comprising the marker.
19. Deteriorated fences, gateways and other signifi-
cant features of cemeteries should be repaired using
the same materials or materials that are similar to the
original in scale, texture, design and color.
20. Milestone are listed on the National Register of His-
toric Places and should never be moved, stabilized, or
otherwise altered without the express consent and su-
pervision of the Maryland Historical Trust.
Who has the best (oldest?) cemetery
Design Guidelines
127
Rehabilitation Of
Existing Buildings
Windows
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
128
This chapter provides guidance for the
rehabilitation and maintenance of all existing
historic buildings, including accessory build-
ings, in Washington County. `These guide-
lines are not meant to be an exhaustive list,
but rather illustrative of what is acceptable and
unacceptable to the Historic District Commis-
sion in accordance with -the Secretary of the
Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation. Com-
mercial, residential and accessory buildings,
as well as objects, structures, site features and
a lighthouse, make up Washington County's
historic districts. Collectively, they create the
he county, distinguishing it from other Mary-
land counties.
In most cases, the buildings have been altered over time. In
all likelihood, they will continue to be changed to meet the needs
of owners and tenants. These guidelines and the Secretary of the
Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation recognize this inevitability.
They do not discourage change; rather they encourage appropriate
changes that do not significantly alter the historic character of a
Therefore, before considering any change to a
it is first necessary to understand the materi-
s, features, details, and other aspects that are
:t to defining its character.
for to making, changes a property owner or
ould consult with the Historic District Corn -
to understand the elements and features of
Dric resource that are significant to its charac-
ter. This will help insure that proposed changes are appropriate and
are compatible with the guidelines as well as the Secretary of the
Interior's Standards of Rehabilitation.
The facades of historic buildings, particularly the front facade,
are among the most important character -defining features of build -
Design Guidelines
129
ings. The design and materials of the
facade, the location, proportion and
scale of windows and doors, massing
and rhythm of features such as bays
and porches, and the details and or-
namentation used all contribute to
that character. Alterations, repair or
replacement of elements and features
of front facades must be carefully con-
sidered so as not to detract from the
building's and the district's character.
m..::
Woburn Manor south of owns- ;��, :,� s.,•.
ville is a manor house and farm- -:`
stead complex. Built around 1820
by Judge Thomas Buchanan, the
house is a 2 1/2 story stuccoed
stone dwelling with a gable roof, W,-`°
facing north. The stucco, an origi-
nal feature, is struck to resemble cut
block in about 1995 Woburn Manor was suffering from demolition
by neglect. The photo right shows a wonderfully restored manor
house.
Judge Buchanan's son-in-law John Dag was so impressed with
Woburn that he built an almost identical home just a few miles
north near Williamsport on today's Kendle Road. Dali named
his home Dalton. Today Dalton is still a working farm but urban
sprawl rapidly is encroaching on the great old plantation.
130
Masonry._Facae es - -
Brick and stone are common building materials for historic
buildings in Washington County, either for entire walls or for foun-
dations. Maintain and repair character -defining brick, stone, stucco,
cast block and other types of masonry used for facades. If repair or re-
placement is necessary, use materials that match the original as closely
as possible. If a masonry wall has historically been painted, it should
continue to be painted, ideally in colors that are sympathetic to its his-
toric color scheme. Remove modern covering materials that have been
applied over original masonry. Repair or replace damaged or missing
masonry units using materials that match the original as closely as
possible. If a masonry feature, such as a window hood or brick corbel is
missing, it should be replaced based on documentary or photographic
evidence. If no evidence of the design of the feature exists, a new de-
sign compatible with similar details existing on the building as well as
the overall character of the building should be used.
Avoid covering original masonry walls, painting historically
unpainted masonry walls. Remove paint from historically painted
131
CT GUIDELINES
21. Repointed mortar joints should match the original
in size, depth, profile, color, composition and finishing
detail. For buildings constructed prior to 1900, a very
low portland cement mortar mix should be used.
22. If cleaning a masonry wall is appropriate, it should
be undertaken with the gentlest means possible. Typi-
cally this means using water, detergent and brushes.
Power washing, chemical cleaning or more aggressive
methods should only be used if the gentlest means
does not work. The type of mortar joint used contrib-
utes to the character of a masonry wall.
today and the least interesting in appearance.
and stretchers along each course with the head-
ers centred on the stretchers above and below.
Bond but the courses of headers are separated
by approximately five courses of stretchers.
of headers and stretchers, with the alternative
headers centred over and under the vertical
joints of the stretchers.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
132
............................... ..... .
masonry work ofAshton Hall (1801)
>ide Maugansville is some of the
�t unusual of any stone house in
county. Large trapezoidal stones
rn randomly placed all around the
se. Jack, or flat, arches serve as
ds above each window. Some have
stones, some seven, one has six
ies, and two are formed from three
e stones. Amazingly eccentric stone -
by any standard.
Brick structures were rare in this area prior to 1820 although there are a
few early examples such as the Seibert-Femsler house on Landis Road,
(left) and Paradise Manor, on Paradise Church Road - both circa 1790.
Photos from Pat Schooley's, . The Architectural Treasures of Washington
County (2002), courtesy Washington County Historical Trust.
Design Guidelines
133
Wood ; R
Wood is the most common fa-
cade material used for historic buildings
in Washington County. Some are con-
structed of logs, while others use various
types of lapped siding and shingles. It is
not recommended to cover historic wood
facades with metal, vinyl and other in-
appropriate materials. They obscure the
original material, often damage histor-
ic details and ornamentation, and can
cause moisture to be trapped inside walls, contributing to structural
problems. Replacement siding should match the original in size and
profile.
GUIDELINES
23. Maintain existing wood fagades using appropriate
paint or other protective coatings.
24. Properly preparing painted surfaces to receive a
new coat of paint.
25. Repair minor deterioration using an appropriate
wood consolidant. If the deterioration is severe, re-
place only the affected areas with wood that matches
the original in size and profile.
26. Remove metal, vinyl, asbestos shingles and other
inappropriate covering materials from fagades, and re-
pair damaged wood as necessary.
Keedysille Road overlookingAntietam Creek
at middle bridge has survived over 220
years and a fire in 1989. A testimony to the
longevity of well -maintained wooden Ger-
man beaded siding.
The National Park Service -
Department of Interior, Pres-
ervation Bulletin #8 provides
information on Substitute sid-
ingfor old buildings, cost anal-
ysis, and energy efficiency.
http://u,ww. nps.gov/history/
hps/tps/briefs/brief08. htm
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
134
Design Guidelines
135
Doors And Windows
The design, location and materials of doors and windows sig-
nificantly contribute to the character of historic buildings. Typically,
doors and windows are formally and symmetrically arranged on the
front facades of buildings. In some cases, such as Victorian residen-
tial buildings, doors and windows may be formally but asymmetri-
cally arranged. Windows and doors located on side or rear facades
are often informally arranged, located for strictly functional pur-
poses. In addition, the design, details and ornamentation of doors
and windows often differ due to their location. For example, those
located on the front facade usually are more elaborate than those
located on side or rear facades.
The arrangement of the doors and windows
dominate the facade architecture of the
Perry House (1860) on West Cumberland
Street, Clear Spring.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
An 18th century board and batten door on
the Trovinger Mill, 1771. (above)
The very early six -panel door on Elysian
Fields (late 18th Century) along the Marsh
Pike near the Pennsylvania line. (below)
Photos from Pat Schooley's, The Archi-
tectural Treasures of Washington County
(2002), courtesy Washington County Histori-
cal Trust.
Boors....-..--..-..-.--........- ...................... ----.....................................--......
Main entry doors, typically located on the front facade, are
usually designed to symbolically greet customers to a commer-
cial building and visitors to residential ones. Main entry doors of
residential buildings usually have a warm, welcoming appearance,
while those on commercial buildings may evoke the prominence of
the business. On the other hand, side and rear doors of both types
of buildings are typically more utilitarian in design. Historically,
residential doors were made of wood with raised or recessed panels.
Doors located on front facades often incorporated plain, colored,
stained, beveled or even etched glass panels. Fanlights and side-
lights may also be incorporated in entry doors. Wood screen doors
on residential buildings constructed after World War I sometimes
had removable screens that could be replaced with storm windows.
The main entries of commercial buildings are almost always con-
structed of a large pane of glass surrounded by wood. A transom
window, often operable, is typically located above the door. Main
entry doors designed as part of a storefront were often recessed to
provide protection from the weather.
Is is never recommended to change the location or size of
doors, openings, transom windows or sidelights particularly those
located on a front facade.
Care should be taken to avoid using inappropriately detailed
replacement doors, such as solid doors for the main entries to com-
mercial buildings, or ones that are not in keeping with the character
of a residential building.
Avoid adding details, surrounds, canopies and ornamenta-
tion that have no historical basis and are not in keeping with the
character of the original door. Inappropriately designed replacement
doors detract from the character of a historic residential building
and are, therefore, not recommended. Details on historic entryways
help establish a unique sense of character
137
GUIDELINES
27. Maintain and repair original location, design, sur-
rounds, frames, sill, transom, fanlights and sidelights of
doors.
28. If repair is not possible, replacement doors and
surrounds on primary fagades should be designed to
duplicate the original as closely as possible. Replace-
ment doors on secondary fagades should be compat-
ible with the overall character of the fagade in which
they are loca₹ed.
29. An inappropriately designed, non -original door or
surround should be replaced with an appropriately de-
signed door or surround based on documentary or
photographic evidence, if no such evidence exists, the
design of the replacement door or surround should be
compatible with the character of the fagade in which it
is located.
30. Screen doors are usually appropriate on residential
and sometimes appropriate on commercial buildings.
on front fagades, screen doors should be constructed
of wood and designed to be a well -maintained historic
entry sets the tone for many historic buildings compat-
ible with the design of the door. on side and rear fa-
gades, painted metal screen/storm doors may be used.
existing original screen doors should be maintained.
Guideli
need great 18th raised panel door, double -
leaf doors, 4 panels doors. .
138
139
Windows
A window is composed of a number of elements, each of
which is important to its character. Until the late nineteenth cen-
tury, window surrounds in residential buildings were almost al-
ways made of wood or brick. In the latter part of that century,
elaborate surrounds of scrolled wood, pressed metal .and pat-
terned brick were found on many residential as well as commer-
cial buildings. In the nineteenth century, the upper floor win-
dows of commercial buildings were normally doublehung with
the sash sometimes subdivided into 2, 4 or even 6 lights (panes of
glass) each. In residential buildings, sash with 9 or even 12 lights
was also common. The upper sash may be squared, rounded or
occasionally may feature other shapes at its top. A wood window
is composed of a number of elements, each of which contributes
to its character In the twentieth century, other types of windows
were also used in residential buildings and in the upper facades
of commercial buildings. Casement windows, popularized in this
country at the very end of the nineteenth century in residential
buildings, are mounted on vertical hinges and often open out-
ward. They can be found individually, in pairs, or in rows. The
sash may consist of a single pane, or be subdivided horizontally,
vertically, or in a diamond pattern. Casement windows may be
constructed of wood or metal. In the mid -twentieth century, aw-
ning windows consisting of a single pane of glass in a metal or
wood sash, hinged at the top, began to be popular in residential
buildings as were decorative windows of various shapes. Bullseye
windows, usually constructed of wood, are often located above a
main entrance or at the top of a gable -end wall. Oval windows,
usually divided into multiple lights are similarly located. Other
popular shapes for residential buildings are halfcircular, quarter -
circular, and hexagonal. Popular window shapes and sash types
It is not recommended changing the location or size of windows
and window openings, particularly those located on a front facade.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
140
Repair original wood windows that can be repaired and re-
frain from thermally upgrading with inappropriately designed ther-
mal windows.
Avoid, using metal or vinyl -clad windows to replace wood
windows on the front facade or significant side and rear facades. Ap-
propriately designed and detailed metal or vinyl replacement win-
dows may be used on secondary facades.
Avoid using replacement windows that do not completely fill
original openings. Additionally, avoid adding details, surrounds,
shutters, ornamentation and other features that have no historical
basis and are not in keeping with the character of the original win-
dow.
Air conditioning units should not be installed on primary fa-
cades, if they must be used, they should only be located on side and
rear facades, preferably ones that are not visible from a public right-
of-way. inappropriate shutters include those that are not in character
with the windows and facade, as well as those that do not cover, or
appear to cover, the window if closed appropriate replacement win-
dows should completely fill the original opening and match existing
windows in design, materials, sash and light configuration. inap-
propriate replacement windows do not completely fill the original.
opening or match existing windows in design, material, sash or light
configuration
GUIDELINES
31. Maintain and repair original location, design, sash,
light -configuration and other important character -defin-
ing elements of windows.
32. If repair is not possible due to advanced deterioration,
replacement windows on primary facades should dupli-
cate the original in design, material, sash and light config-
uration as closely as possible. replacement windows on
141
secondary fa�ades should be compatible with the overall
character of the fagade in which they are located.
33. Inappropriately designed, non -original, windows
should be replaced with appropriately designed ones
based on documentary or photographic evidence, if no
such evidence exists, the design of the replacement
should be compatible with the character of the fagade
in which it is located. The design and materials of shut-
ters should be appropriate to the character of windows
and the fagade. They should appear to cover the win-
dow if closed
34. Shutters are appropriate for windows on residen-
tial buildings. if original shutters are missing or need to
be replaced, their design and material should be based
on documentary or photographic evidence, even if the
shutters are not operable, they should be sized to ap-
pear to cover the window if closed. Shutters are usual-
ly not appropriate on commercial buildings unless clear
documentary or photographic evidence of their use ex-
ists.
35. Canvas awnings are sometimes appropriate for
upper floor windows on commercial buildings. if they
are appropriate, they should be fitted to conform to the
size and shape of the window head and upper sur-
round.
36. Detachable wood screens and storm windows
were often used in residential and upper floor commer-
cial windows through the first half of the twentieth cen-
tury. new storm windows and screens should match as
closely as possible the historic windows in size, profiles
of sash and frame, color and other character -defining
GuideIi
142
Keedy House (1776) on Barnes Road
near Boonsboro are in two different styles.
The lower windows are segmented arches,
the upper windows are topped with cut
limestone
Design Guidelines
features. If evidence of historic exterior storm windows
exists then they should be considered for replacement.
in cases where exterior storm windows were not used
historically, then interior storm windows may be consid-
ered. Clear glass should be used for glazing all storm
windows. Alternatives for sensitive installation of storm
windows
There are some window that you just don't know what they were
thinking. Downtown Williamsport.
143
rZ
Roofs are one of the most important character defining
elements of historic buildings. Commercial buildings typically
have flat roofs hidden from view by a cornice and parapet. Sloped
roofs typically found on historic residential buildings include ga-
ble, cross -gable, gambrel, mansard, hipped and shed. The roofs
on residential buildings also often contain character -defining
features such as dormer windows, towers, chimneys, finials and
cresting. The shape, size and materials of gutters and downspouts
also contribute to the character of a roof. In addition to shape
and features, the material used to cover sloping roofs contrib-
utes to their character. Up until the close the eighteenth cen-
tury hand split wood shake roofs were typical. During the first
half the nineteenth century machine -cut wood shingles gradu-
ally replaced shake roofs. Copper, lead and terne plate became
common metal roof materials in the nineteenth century. In the
early twentieth century, zinc and galvanized tin were also used
to cover sloped roofs. The character of a metal roof is derived
from the type of metal used, how it is finished and the meth-
od by which sections are joined together and attached to the
roof's substructure. Copper, which weathers
to a green patina, and lead, which weathers
to a warm gray, is usually left unpainted. All `
other types of metal roofs should be painted'
to protect them from corrosion. Slate was a '
common roof material for substantial resi--
dential buildings in the nineteenth and early
twentieth centuries. It came in many shapes,
with rectangular, diamond and hexagonal the >> �
most popular. Although predominantly gray
in color, slate roofs may also be red or green or ₹:1tI 1 �;,
E66�tf�
mixed by color and shape for ornamental purij}}}}iii"{{
f aitl'ttiiii {Ict�+eki;
poses. In the late nineteenth century, asphalt
A crimped tin roof with a baked enamel finish
makes an excellent alternative to the more
expensive standing seam roof on this 1850s
restored stone home in Downsville.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
144
Y.� shingles were introduced as an inexpensive roof-
-
ing material. By the mid -twentieth century, they
had become the most common material for sloped
goofs. Gray is the predominant color for asphalt
shingles, although red, green or black shingles are
also used. Less common roof materials include
=- ood shakes and shingles. Wood shakes arehand
split and have a rough appearance, while wood
shingles are machine cut and have a smoother ap-
pearance. Typically left unpainted, they weather
to silver-gray. Gable, cross -gable, gambrel, man-
'vP.4Y V.
card hipped and shed roofs are important charac-
ter- efining elements of buildings
This red terra cotta goof has survived
with only minormaintenance since itwas Avoid changing the shape or slope of a roof. Solar panels,
insfalted on this 189t) home on the Downs satellite dishes, antenna or other structures or equipment on roofs
ville Pike. Note the unusual curved edge flat should be installed so they are not visible from a public right -of -
porch roof, way. If skylights, dormers, vents and other projections are added
to existing roofs, they also should be located so they are not visible
The original slate roof on the National Reg- from a public right-of-way changing the shape of a sloped roof de-
ister home called The Maples has recemtly
bee replaced with synthetic state shingles. tracts from the character of the building and is therefore not recom-
A modern, but very appropriate replacement mended
material.
GUIDELINES
X37. Original roof shape, details, ornamenta-
tion and other character defining elements
should be main-tained.
Y3
38. Maintain and repair original materials
on sloped roofs of historic buildings, if the
severity of deterioration requires that the
material be replaced, the replacement ma-
terial should, match the existing in size, ori-
entation, color, reflectivity and other defin-
ing characteristics of the original, on roofs
Design Guidelines
145
not visible from a public right-of-way, if using
the same materials is not possible for techni-
cal or economic reasons, then a replacement
material that resembles the existing in size,
orientation, color, reflectivity and other defin-
ing characteristics may be used.
39. Missing or severely damaged towers, dor-
mers, finials, cresting, chimneys and other
character -defining roof elements should be
replaced based on documentary or photo-
graphic evidence. If no evidence of the ap-
pearance of the element exists, a new element should
be designed to be compatible with the overall character
of the building.
40. New skylights, vents, chim-
neys or other projections should
be located so that they are not v
ible from a public right -of- way.
The fine shake shingle roof on the Keedy House
(1776) on Barnes Road near Boonsboro is appropri-
ate for this find cut limestone house.
A superb shake shingle roof on an 1816 home
on Honeyfield Road outside Williamsport.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
Design Guidelines
14e
Porches are significant character defining ele-
E: a �nents of many residential and some commercial build-
kings. Many are still extant and well maintained. Others
;are deteriorated or have been removed. Still others have
;been enclosed or their character -defining elements such
-44i1as railings and columns inappropriately altered. In. ad-
`- 'dition to contributing to the character of historic build -
porches serve as sheltered places to sit outdoors and
;provide protection to walls and doors from the weather.
They also shade windows helping to reduce solar gain
The porches on Lehman's Mill Farm house
were added with the 1860 addition account- and thus air conditioning loads. The roofs of some porches also
ing for the ornamentation not found on provide a place from which to view the countryside.
the $0oo der portion of the home that dates to . Is it not recommended removing an original porch or any of
its character -defining elements such as steps, flooring, ceiling, col-
umns, roof, details and ornamentation.
Avoid enclosing a porch located on the front facade of a his-
toric building or one that is visible from a public right-of-way, if the
porch isnot visible from a public right-of-way it may be enclosed
if done in a manner that does not significantly alter the. original
A well maintained wraparound porch on a character of the porch. enclosing a porch of a historic building vis-
circa 1900 Victorian home along the sharps- ible from a public right-of-way detracts from its character and is,
burg Pike. therefore, not recommended
,epair original existing porches,
aracter defining elements such
ceiling, columns, roof, details
in.
elements are too severely de -
ii, they should be replaced with
sely resemble the original as
147
closely as possible in material, size,
shape, color and other distinguishing
features
43. Missing features should be replaced
based on documentary or photograph-
ic evidenceif none exists, the replace-
ment feature should be designed to be
compatible with the overall character of
the facade
on which the
porch is lo-
cated thee` design of a
p
missing fea-33 s
'
ture should 4 3 �
be based on
documen-
tary or pho-
tographic r-^ _-
evidence front porches are often the most prom
nent feature that defines historic character
appropriate treatment as in the Robert
gett (1770-90) home on Garretts Mill
3d. The photo above is from the 1988
tonal Register nomination. The photo
was taken in 2002 after restoration. The
it porch was removed, and two large
rches were added onto the rear facade.
These two houses in Downsville recently had their front
porches renovated. One carefully matched existing omamenta- 4
lion and matched the original chamfered posts. The house on
the right replaced the chamfered posts with modem 4x4 posts
wrapped in vinyl. All ornamentation was removed and a tin roof
added - a distinct loss of character defining elements.
148
Highly detailed ornamentation on a historic
home in downtown Sharpsharg.
Design Guidelines
t �
Many different types of details and ornamen-
tation, in a wide range of materials, are found on
Washington County's historic buildings. The details
as varied as the resources: from classically inspired
,� :Georgian and Federal features to picturesque, eclec-
tic Victorian -era treatments to functional or creative
vernacular craftsmanship. Each element contributes
•= significantly to the character of the building. Some of
the most common details and ornamentations found
on Washington County's historic buildings are: bays,
towers, cornices, window hoods, door surrounds, finials, cresting,
balustrades and railings. Bays may be square, hexagonal, round
or other shapes. They may be one or two stories in height, provid-
ing interest and rhythm to a building's facade. A prominent pro-
jecting bay Towers or turrets that further accentuate the facade
and roof often cap bays. A corner tower with witches cap roof
Located at the junction between the wall and roof, cornices visu-
ally cap a building as well as hide the joint between the wall and
roof. Cornices may contain elaborate brackets, moldings or other
details made of wood, brick, stone or metal. Wood and metal
cornices are often non-structural, attached to the wall by bracing
and anchors, brick and stone cornices are usually structurally part
of the wall. these substantial brackets make a significant contri-
bution this building's historic character Window hoods and door
surrounds provide visual emphasis to openings and help shed wa-
ter away from the window or door. Hoods made of brick or stone
may sometimes be structural, while hoods made of wood or met-
al are usually non-structural, but are just as important in defin-
ing the character of a building. Function and ornament combine
in these window and door hoods Historically, some residential,
agricultural and institutional buildings contained weather vanes,
lightning rods, roof finials and cresting. Typically made of metal,
149
all of these features visually accentuate roof ridges, turrets and
towers. This combination weather vane and lightning rod still
retains its glass components Balustrades can be found on some of
Washington County's historic buildings. Used to visually cap a
building, porch or portico and often to hide the roof from view,
balustrades contribute significantly to the character of the build-
ings on which they occur. This roof -top balustrade provides not
only safety but a balanced finish to the facade of this historic re-
source Railings serve a safety function and they contribute to the
appearance of a building. Most commonly constructed of metal
or turned wood, railings of stone and brick are also found on
Washington County's historic buildings.
GUIDELINES
44. Deteriorated details and ornamentation should
be repaired and maintained if possible. if replace-
ment is necessary, the deteriorated detail or ornament
should be replaced with one that resembles the origi-
nal in scale, texture, design and color, and if possible,
is made of the same material, if a different material is
used, it should be visually, physically and chemically
compatible with surrounding original material.
45. Numerous coats of paint that obscure de-
tails and ornamentation should be removed
carefully prior to repainting.
46. If details or ornamentation are missing,
they should be replaced using documentary
or visual evidence of their design, scale and
texture. If similar details or ornamentation ex-
ist on the building, they should be used as
models.
Close-up showing the intricate details of
the ornamentation on a house in downtown
Maugansville.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
150
Design Guidelines
151
The design of additions to historic buildings and the design
of new buildings near historic buildings are critical to preserving
the character of a historic resource. Additions and
new buildings should contribute to the character of
a historic resource by respecting the location, scale,
proportion, rhythm, massing, materials, roof shapes
and the details and ornamentation of existing his-
toric buildings. They must also respect the character
of landscape features, accessory buildings and other
important features of the resource. New buildings
should be architecturally compatible with the exist-
ing environment without exactly duplicating exist
ing buildings. Architectural compatibility may be
achieved in many ways. It is based on an understanding of the
character -defining elements of the existing buildings, landscape,
and other features of the district. Typically, this understanding
involves an analysis of how design principles (discussed below) are
used in the existing buildings and landscapes and then interpret-
ing. them in today's design philosophy, materials and construc-
tion techniques. Compatibility does not mean exact duplication.
The new building or addition should be
seen as a product of its own time. To re-
produce a historic building, or to exactly
copy a style of the past, will create a false
sense of history of the new building and
the existing resource. A new building
or addition should seek to contribute to
the resource's future evolution just as the
existing building shows its past develop-
ment. In short, a new building or addi-
tion should be a good neighbor.
Location
The location of an addition is
critical to its compatibility. Historically,
many resources in Washington County
have been added to over the years, with
the additions usually attached to the rear
Cade. In many cases, the additions are smaller than the original
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
152
building, while in a few instances they are much larger. If a new
accessory building is to be added to a historic property, it should
be located to enhance the viewsheds to
and from the principal building, as well
as enhance the character of the entire re-
source. If no historic accessory buildings
'exist, a new accessory building should be
located outside of the primary viewsheds
to and from the historic resource.
It is not . recommended to locate
additions to historic resources on front
or other primary facades. New additions
should not be located within the primary
viewsheds to and from a historic resource.
New buildings should not detract from the
overall character of a historic resource.
47. Additions to historic resources should be located
on rear and other secondary fa�ades.
48. Additions should be hidden from the primary views
to and from a historic resource.
49. New accessory buildings should be located to en-
hance the overall character of the entire resource.
50. If no accessory buildings currently exist, new ac-
cessory buildings should be located outside of primary
viewsheds to and from historic resources. this histor-
ic resource shows the progression of several additions
creating an attenuated rear wing
Design Guidelines
153
Scale
Scale is the relative or apparent size of a building in relation
to its neighbors. Scale is also the relative or apparent size of build-
ing elements, such as windows, doors, cornices and other features
to each other and to the building. Most buildings are designed to
be of human scale; that is, they appear to be of a size appropriate for
human occupancy and use. Other buildings are designed to be of
monumental scale, giving them prominence and symbolic impor-
tance.
T y l o place for a plot plan
;tally,
oflu -
mental
scale is
sso-
iated
,ith
>vern-
ental
and religious buildings. Human or mon-
umental scale can be achieved in many
ways. For example, windows, doors, cor-
nices and other elements can be enlarged
to impart a sense of monumentality or
designed to be human in scale. Facades
can be highly detailed, contributing to a
sense of monumentality; or they may be
of plainer treatment, making the build-
ing appear human in scale.
It is not recommended designing
an addition or new building that does not
respect the scale of the historic building to which it is attached or
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
154
2. In a few cases, a new building's
se and symbolic importance may
take it appropriate for its scale to dif
:r from that of its neighbors.
x.53. Consider slightly diminishing the
scale of additions to historic resources,
particularly residential properties. These telescope ad-
ditions demonstrate diminishing scale in a rural historic
building
Design Guidelines
155
Proportion
Proportion is the relative dimen-
sion of elements of a building to each
other and to its overall facade. Often
proportions are expressed as mathemati-
cal ratios, drawn from the architectural
theories of ancient Greece and Renais-
sance Italy. For example, many historic
buildings designed in the Classical Re-
vival style use mathematical proportions
to locate and size windows, doors, col-
umns, cornices and other building ele-
ments.
It is not recommended drastically
changing the proportions of additions to
historic buildings or drastically changing
.....................................................................................................................:
•
the proportions of new buildings near historic buildings.
GUIDELINES
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
156
The design of new buildings or addi-
should respect the existing proportions
storic, buildings, the proportions of an ad-
i should respect those of the original
ing
Design Guidelines
157
Rhythms - -
The spacing and repetition of building facade
elements, such as windows, doors, belt courses and
the like, give an elevation its rhythm. The space be-
tween freestanding buildings in towns, as well as
the height of roofs, cornices, towers and other roof
projections establishes the rhythm of a street.
It is not recommended designing an addition
or new building that does not respect the rhythm of
existing historic buildings
= GUIDELINES
55. Additions should respect the rhythm of the existing
historic building to which it is attached.
56. New buildings should respect the rhythm of their
neighboring buildings. Additions and new buildings
should respect the rhythm established by existing win-
dows, doors, belt courses, and the like.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
158
A building's massing is derived from the ar-
ulation of its facade through the use of dormers,
avers, bays, porches, steps and other projections.
tese projections significantly contribute to the
aracter of the building and, in town, the character
a street.
It is not recommended designing new build-
ngs and additions that do not respect the massing of
iistoric buildings.
57. Additions should respect the massing of the exist-
ing historic building to which it is attached
58. New buildings should respect the massing of the
neighboring buildings. Massing is derived from the use
of bays, towers, chimneys and other projections on a
fa�ade
Design Guidelines
159
Materials
The materials used for walls, sloped roofs ai
other visible elements of additions and new buildin
should respect the materials of historic buildings. T
size, texture, surface finish and other defining cha
acteristics of exterior materials are as important as ti
type of material. For example, if a historic building f
Cade has four -inch wood lapped siding, installing eigh
inch vertical board and batten on the addition wou
not be compatible. Similarly, a new accessory buildii
constructed of glazed brick near a historic unglazed
ing would not be compatible.
GUIDELINES
59. Exterior materials used for additions should be
compatible in size, texture, surface finish and other de-
fining characteristics with the exterior of the historic
building to which it is attached.
60. Exterior materials used for new buildings should be
compatible in size, texture, surface finish and other de-
fining characteristics with the exteriors of neighboring
buildings.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
160
Hoot .inapa
The shape of an addition's roof should
'i:,respect that of the historic building to which
=it is attached. In towns, roof shapes of new
compatible with
:buildin s should also be com g
the roof shapes of neighboring buildings.
For example, introducing a different roof
shape; such as a flat roof with an elaborate
cornice would probably not be compatible
in a street with gable end roofs.
Ys It is not recommended designing in-
;,. compatible roof shapes for new buildings and
additions. The use of incompatible roof pro -
tiles on a new accessory building or addition can detract from his-
toric buildings and districts
GUIDELINES
61. The roof shape of an addition should be compatible
with that of the historic building to which it is attached.
62. The roof shape of a new building should be com-
patible with the roof shapes of neighboring buildings.
Gabled roof Gambrel roof Hip roof
Stepped or
crowstepl f gables
Mansard roof
Pent
roof
Shed roof
parapet
l l Flat roofHip roof with Deck
161
Details And Ornamentation
The details and ornamentation of additions
and new buildings are important to making them
compatible with existing historic resources. The de-
sign of a new building or addition should consider
the amount, location and elaborateness of details and
ornamentation found on adjacent historic buildings.
Existing details and ornamentation may be used as
the basis for those on a new building, but they should
usually not be copied exactly.
Avoid designing additions with details and or-
namentation that. are very different than those on the
historic building. Likewise, designing additions with-
out any details and ornamentation if the historic build-
ing contains details and ornamentations.
It is not recommended exactly copying details
and ornaments from a historic building for an addition or new
building, the use of incompatible details on an addition can signifi-
cantly detract from buildings within historic districts
GUIDELINES
63. Designing additions with details and ornamenta-
tions that are compatible in amount, location, elabo-
rateness and other defining features to the details and
ornamentation on a historic building to which it is at-
tached.
64. Designing new buildings with details that are com-
patible to the details and ornamentation of neighboring
historic buildings. The use of compatible details on an
addition can significantly enhance buildings within his-
toric districts
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
162
Design Guidelines
163
New Site Features &
Accessory Buildings
Guidelines for Historic f reservation
164
New site features and accessory build -
are often necessary to the continued use
historic resources. They may range from
ntings, fences or walls, walkways and
veways to decks and patios. New site fea-
include satellite
nels, heat pumps or other pieces of equip-
;nt. Designs for new site features should
:isider and protect archaeological resources
the maximum extent possible. Many new
features do not have historic precedents.
us, they should normally be located so that
;y are not within primary viewsheds to or
m historic buildings or are screened from
Design Guidelines
165
Accessory Buildings
Accessory buildings such as garages, barns
and sheds are important character -defining ele-
ments. They give scale and texture to the principal
historic building and its environment. Sometimes
they employ details and design that are similar to
the principal building and sometimes they pro-
vide a pleasing contrast to the main structure.
New accessory buildings should respect the loca-
tion, character and design of the principal build-
ing as well as existing accessory buildings on the
property.
It is not recommended adding accessory
buildings that are not compatible with the princi-
pal building or existing accessory buildings. Avoid
locating new accessory buildings so that they detract from signifi-
cant viewsheds, or the visual and spatial characteristics of the prop-
erty. Without identifying and protecting significant viewsheds, the
setting, context and overall quality of a historic district can be com-
promised.
GUIDELINES
65. The design of new accessory buildings should be
compatible with the form, height, scale, proportions,
materials and details of the principal building and exist-
ing accessory buildings.
66. Locating new accessory buildings so that the exist-
ing significant visual and special characteristics of the
property are maintained.
67. Locating new accessory buildings so that signifi-
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
1GO
cant viewsheds are maintained or enhanced. once sig-
nificant viewsheds have been identified, new acces-
sory buildings may be sited so that the viewshed is
preserved
Design Guidelines
167
Protecting Archaeological Resources During New
Construction _.
Leaving archaeological resources undisturbed is the best
preservation method. Whenever a property is altered, whether
through agriculture, adding site features such as walkways or
driveways, or constructing new buildings, known and unknown
archaeological resources may be disturbed. To help ensure that
this will not occur, a professional archaeologist should conduct
an assessment and/or survey of the area for the new construc-
tion.
Avoid destroying archaeological resources during new con-
struction or removing or recording archaeological resources using
other than best practices.
GUIDELINES
68. Engaging a professional archaeologist to conduct
a survey of the areas for new construction and con-
struction equipment and materials storage early in the
design process.
69. Locating new construction so that archaeological
resources are not disturbed.
70. If protecting archaeological resourc-
es during construction is not feasible,
conduct archaeology and recordation us-
ing best practices before construction be-
gins.
71. If locating the new construction so
that archaeological resources are not
disturbed is not feasible, protect the re-
sources during construction using best
practices.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
leg
S
� � � ,, . While it is always best to maintain and
�� 5
i13� 4 "`; ` " s ' preserve existing landscape and plantings as
z
discussed in the section discussing Historic
{� f Context and Site Features, it is not always pos-
`sible to do so. Sometimes, the historic plant
materials and design of yards, gardens and
landscapes have been altered so that they are
I now incompatible with the historic resource.
�If so, the owner of the historic property may
'r:wish to restore the original design using his-
toric plant materials. In other cases, it may be
g P g x..,.,r,> necessar to introduce new plant materials or
Welf tFiod�hf out ' an m s'of` oz�vood nan- y
diva, and yew complement and frame the landscape design adjacent to the historic buildings or within their
lovely circa 1816 house along the Sharps- immediate viewsheds.
burg Pike
It is not recommended adding plantings that significantly
The garden at Plumb Grove in Clear Springs change the context of the historic building or important viewsheds
is one of the finest examples of correct period
native plantings, herbs, and historic roses in or introducing incompatible plant materials.
the county. Volunteers of the Clear Springs
Historical Society united their combine
knowledge to create a correct and informa-
tive garden that can be enjoyed and educate kGUIDELINES
any interested visitors.
1e -creating historic landscapes using
nentary, archaeological or other verifi-.
>ources for its design; plant materials,
ure, walkways, pathways and the like.
oric plant materials are not available,
nes that are similar in growth patterns,
ind shape at maturity.
I-Iecting new plantings and designing
andscapes adjacent to historic prop -
to be compatible with the design of
.iildings. Locate new plantings so that
Design Guidelines
169
they maintain or enhance the properties historic char-
acter and its context.
74. Protecting existing plantings to be retained during
restoration or developing of the new landscape design.
That American holly was cute when it was
little. A great historic home obscured by over-
grown, planting.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
170
aces And Walls
gSa� y
x * If a new fence or wall must be added
w9iito a historic property careful consideration
should be given to its materials, design and
a& t location. the new fences or walls should be
sympathetic with the character of the exist -
ping features of the historic resource. New
walls and fences should be designed to be as
unobtrusive as possible.
It is not recommended locating new
fences or walls so that they detract from the
historic character of the buildings and prop-
erty or using materials or design of fences and
A`'recenflyrestored circa 1850 stone'#rin°�
walls that are not compatible with the character of the historic build -
house with a correct period fence near
Downsville. ings, unless they are located so as not to diminish the overall charac-
ter of the property.
GUIDELINES
75. The location of a new fence or wall should be com-
patible with the overall character of the historic re-
source and the design and materials of existing fences
and walls as well as that of the historic buildings on the
property.
76. The materials, height, configuration, scale and de-
tails of new fences and walls should be compatible with
the character of the historic buildings.
171
Walkways, Driveways And Parking Areas
If a new walkway, driveway or parking area is added
to a historic resource, its design and materials should be com-
patible with historic walkways, driveways and parking areas.
It is not recommended using incompatible new materials
for new walkways, driveways and parking areas. Avoid design-
ing new walkways, driveways and parking areas so that they
detract from the overall character of the historic resource.
Avoid designing large, unbroken areas of parking. Con-
sider screening parking areas from view and locating large parking
areas so that they are within the primary viewsheds to and from a
historic resource.
GUIDELINES
77. Using appropriate historic materials, or compatible
new materials, for new walkways, driveways and park-
ing areas.
78. Designing new walkways, driveways and parking
areas so that they are unobtrusive and compatible with
the overall character of the historic resource.
79. Breaking up large expanses of parking with
scaped areas. consider using one 200
square foot landscaped area for every 40
parking spaces.
80. Screening all parking areas from view
by using landscaping.
81. Locating large parking areas so that
they are not within the primary viewsheds
to and from a historic resource.
land -
The graceful re-created walkway and stone
retainer wall illuminated by a lantern is the
result of careful, historical research of the
Robert Clagett home circa 1770 in southern
Washington County.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
172
Patios, Decks And Other New Features
Patios, decks and other new features
such as fountains, garden ponds, swimming
pools, television dishes, fuel oil tanks and cen-
tral air conditioning units are sometimes added
to historic resources. While making the build-
ing more functional or comfortable, improper
design and location of these new features will
detract from the historic character of the re-
source.
It is not recommended adding new patios,
decks and other new features that are not com-
patible with the principal building.
Avoid locating new patios, decks, or other
new features so that they detract from significant
We should be able to come up with a num- viewsheds, or the visual and spatial characteristics of the resource.
ber of informative photos for this section a well screened and carefully located deck, patio or swimming pool
will preserve the character of historic resources while enhancing the
function or comfort for residents
l GUIDELINES
82. The design of new patios, decks, and other new
features should be compatible with the form, scale,
proportions, materials and details of the principal build-
ing.
83. Locating new patios, decks, and other new features
so that the existing significant visual and spatial char-
acteristics of the historic resource are maintained.
84. Locating new patios, decks, and other new features
so that significant viewsheds are maintained or en-
hanced.
Design Guidelines
173
85. Shielding above ground fuel oil tanks, central air
conditioning units and other needed equipment from
sight with appropriate landscaping or other screening.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
174
■r z'
1
w _
v 5A.
Storefronts
Signs
175
Storefronts _..__
A storefront is the most important compo-
nent of a commercial building. Storefronts usually
consist of three major elements — display windows
sometimes surmounted by transom windows, entry
doors, and enframing structural members. Most
storefronts also contain important details such as
bulkheads, decorative trim and the signboard or
storefront cornice.
It is not recommended designing a new store-
front that is incompatible with the design of the
building facade in which it is to be located. Avoid
blocking -down, covering or removing storefronts or
display windows and removing existing compatible storefront de-
tails or ornamentation.
GUIDELINES
86. Storefronts should respect the design of the build-
ing as a whole and be compatible with the scale, mate-
rials, color, and texture of the facade in which it is lo-
cated.
87. Storefronts should be de-
signed to fit within the orig-
inal enframing storefront
opening.
88. Existing inappropriate
storefronts should be re-
moved and new compatible
storefronts designed and in-
stalled.
176
Commercial Bull
Business signs are important elements of commer
eial buildings. Well -designed business signs contribute to
the appearance of a building as well as attract customers
and clients. Business signs that are poorly designed, on
the other hand, detract from the appearance of a build-
ing as well as the image of a. business. the most corn-
,.. m Amon types, of business signs are storefront signs, hanging
` signs; display window and entry signs, and awning signs.
• In cases where fading, painted, historic mural signs —
"ghost signs" are present they should left as found.
- ° Their presence contributes to the historic context of the
The HDC reviews prospective new signs that re -
"A .quire a permit within the AO -2 or Antietam Overlay ap-
z .'_sa::a'�aa^R�^c r^•ws;3" y -$r .�. `,'.s s .:
" • ���x =proach zone of the historic town of Sharpsburg. Special
attention is given to insure new signage installed within
these approach zones into Sharpsburg are non -obtrusive,
historic in nature, and sensitive to Sharpsburg's cultural, econom-
ic, social, political and architectural history, and consequently an
understanding that the appearance of the Historic District is a
New signs located within the valuable but fragile resource that must be protected and preserved.
AO 2, or Antietam Overlay Sign shape, size, positioning, colors, materials, size, illumination,
Approach zone are subject of and lettering, are all features subject to review
review by the HDC and must Appropriate signage will strengthen the town's economy
receive a Certificate of Ap- through recognition that visitors are interested in Sharpsburg's
propriateness before installa- historic buildings and streetscapes as a part of the context of the
tion. The HDCwillfollow the Antietam National Military Park.
design guidelines very closely Requests for sign permits must first comply with all size,
to ensure appropriateness and set -back requirements are stipulated by Section 21A8 Signs
of design and compatibility and Exterior Lighting of the Washington County Ordinance.
with the historic nature of the Simple geometric sign shapes are appropriate for most signs
town. although scrolled tops and shaped corners resembling shields
Design Guidelines
177
(common in signs before 1860) may be ap-
propriate. For larger flush mounted signs,
simple rectangles are best.
Signs should not appear out of scale
with the building to which they are at-
tached. They should not overpower adjacent
structures or monopolise the streetscape.
Because travel through the Antietam Ap-
proach Zones does not exceed 25 -miles -
per -hour, signs do not need to be large to
convey their message.
They style of lettering used on a sign
is important to overall design and clarity.
-Excessive lettering can confuse and over-
whelm the reader. "Short and Sweet" works best. There are three
basis styles:
SERIF letters have been used throughout American
history and were most common for signs erected until the
early 20th centruy. Generally, simple Serif styles were used
for signs created before 1860, and more elaborate Serif let-
tering used after 1860. These later Victorian period signs
often incorporated a number of letter signs into a single
design.
NON -SERIF letterswere not used until around 1920.
At that time, designers considered the geometric shapes of
this letter style more modern that the Serif style.
Scsupt letters were not used a frequently as the oth-
er styles. Script lettering is more difficult to read and was
used sparingly. If used for new signs, it should continue to
be used sparingly.
Historically, signs were most often made of wood
and were hung from wrought iron brackets. Brass plaques
were also made and attached directly to the building. In the
late 19th century tin, cast iron, and steel became available
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
178
---- - I for signs. Today, signs can be made from all
of these materials and much more includ-
s' o ing vinyl, plastic, aluminum, and all may
�� _be considered appropriate depending on the
overall context.
In determining color, the contrast
between the background and the lettering
of the sign is the most significant factor in
.
legibility. Simple designs with simple color
:schemes are most effective. Few signs re-
quire more than three colors to convey their
message clearly. Bright or bold colors detract
from the historic character of the building
and overwhelm the reader. The colors -of a
sign do not need to match those of the building exactly, but they
should complement it. If gold leaf will be used for lettering or
graphics, a darker background works best. Consider dark blue,
black, dark green, or black. Providing a thin band of contrasting
color at the border of the sign also helps define the sign.
Illumination of signs should be external. If a sign requires il-
lumination, the lighting should be indirect, hidden from view, and
small in scale and should shielded pedestrians and motorists from
glare. Lights may be placed on the ground, pointing up at a sign,
or for hanging signs, they may be attached to a bracket, pointing
vernally lit signs are
)priate for. historic
�n signs, which were
.ender glass tubes il-
by electrified gas
in the 1920s, may
►riate for a limited
buildings.
Design Guidelines
179
GUIDELINES
89. Storefront signs should be mounted flush
on the signboard. Typically they are centered
in the signboard area. No more than 65% of
the signboard area should be devoted to the
sign.
90. Hanging signs should be mounted perpen-
dicular to the facade with a minimum clear-
ance of 8' —0" above the sidewalk.
91. Illumination of signs should be external. If a
quires illumination, the lighting should be indirect, hid-
den from view, and small in scale and should shield-
ed pedestrians and motorists from glare. Lights may
be placed on the ground, pointing up at a sign, or for
hanging signs, they may be attached to a bracket,
pointing down. Internally lit signs are not appropriate
for historic areas.
92. Signs on display windows and entry doors should
be located and designed so they do not obscure vis-
ibility into the ground floor. Signs on display win-
dows should occupy no more than 25% of the total
glass area to which they are displayed. Display win-
dow signs may be painted, of gold leaf, or attached to
Plexiglas, glass or other transparent material hung in-
side the display window.
93. Awning signs should occupy no more than 50% of
the slope or 65% of the return or valance.
94. No more than three color should be used in a sign.
The colors of a sign do not need to match those of the
building exactly, but they should complement it.
Guidelines for Historic Preservation
180
95. Lettering of signs should be appropriate to the size
of the sign . Lettering style should attempt to be correct
to the period of the building or the business type.
96.Signs should not appear out of scale with the build-
ing to which they are attached or are position near.
They should not overpower adjacent structures or mo-
nopolise the streetscape.
Design Guidelines
TEXT OF NEWSPAPER AD
PUBLIC NOTICE - EASEMENT PRIORITY RANKING CHANGES FOR MALPP
Notice is hereby given that the Washington County Board of County Commissioners will hold a public
hearing on Tuesday, November 29, 2011 at the hour of 11:00 a.m. in the Washington County
Administration Building, 100 West Washington Street, Room #255, Hagerstown, Maryland. The public
hearing is for the purpose of considering changes in the MALPP Easement Priority Ranking system,
described as follows:
• Implementation of Competitive Bidding
• Changes in point values of Ranking System
All parties in interest and citizens, either in support of or in opposition to the proposed changes, shall
have the opportunity to be heard at said time and place.
Copies of the documents are available for viewing at the Washington County Planning Department.
Individuals requiring special accommodations are requested to contact the Washington County
Commissioners Office (240-313-2200) to make arrangementsno later than ten (10) working days prior
to the meeting. Any person desiring a stenographic transcript shall be responsible for supplying a
competent stenographer.
Gregory Murray, County Administrator
INSTRUCTIONS
Publish in the Herald -Mail
Dates of Publication — November 22, 2011
Please Bill - Washington County Planning Department
80 West Baltimore Street
Hagerstown, MD 21740
(240) 313-2437