HomeMy WebLinkAboutDRAFT Historic GuidelinesDesign Guidelines for
Historic Structures
Washington County, Maryland
Adopted 202x
ii Historic Structures
Acknowledgements
Historic District Commission:
Gregory Smith, Chair
Lloyd Yavener, Vice Chair
Ann Aldrich
Vernell Doyle
Kourtney Lowery
Michael Lushbaugh
Edith Wallace
Jeffrey A. Cline (BOCC Representative)
Former Historic District Commission
Members:
Robert Bowman II
Thomas G. Clemens
Kurt Cushwa
Michael Gehr
Chris Horst
Sandra D. Izer
Gary W. Rohrer
Charles R. Stewart
Merry Stinson
Christine Toms
Carla Viar
David Wiles
County Staff:
Jill Baker, AICP, Director, Department of Planning & Zoning
Debra Eckard, Administrative Assistant, Department of Planning & Zoning
Meghan Jenkins, GISP, GIS Coordinator/HDC Staff person, Department of Planning & Zoning
Stephen Goodrich, AICP, Former Director, Department of Planning & Zoning
Wyatt Stitely, Comprehensive Planner, Department of Planning & Zoning
Special Acknowledgements:
The Maryland Historical Trust
Preservation Maryland
Washington County Historical Trust (WCHT)
Clear Spring Historical Association (CSHA)
Cover Photos (Clockwise)
Burnside Bridge, Plumb Grove
Mansion, Church of the Brethren,
Antietam Observation Tower
Adopted:
XX, XX, 202X
Design Guidelines iii
Table of Contents
Purpose of the Design Guidelines
Application Requirements
Evaluation Process
Demolition
A Short History of Washington County
Architectural Styles of Washington County
Vernacular Forms 18th-19th Century
Georgian
Federal
Greek Revival
Italianate/Italian Villa
Second Empire
Queen Anne and Other Victorian Styles
Colonial Revival
Classical Revival
Twentieth Century
Commercial Buildings
Commercial Buildings Post 1930
Gas Stations
Common Accessory Structures
Ecclesiastical Architecture
Schoolhouses
Historic Markers
Standards for Review
Standards for Rehabilitation
Guidelines
Setting and Site
Rehabilitation of Existing Buildings
Additions to Historic Buildings
New Construction and Accessory
Buildings
Site and Building Lights
Signs
Solar and Other New Technologies for
Environmental Sustainability
Hazard Mitigation
Rural Villages Inventory
Glossary
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Design Guidelines 1
Purpose of the Design Guidelines
These design guidelines are a set of guiding
principles that establish a basis for the
Historic District Commission’s (HDC)
recommendations, approval or denial of
applications. The HDC uses these Guidelines
and the Secretary of Interior’s Standards for
the Treatment of Historic Properties to
determine if proposed work is appropriate
for properties that fall under their review.
Maryland Land Use Code S8.101-8.501 and
Article 20 of the Washington County Zoning
Ordinance require the HDC to base its
decisions on these documents.
Conformance with the Secretary’s Standards
is also a condition of the County’s Certifled
Local Government status, a program
administered by the National Park Service
(NPS) and Maryland Historical Trust (MHT),
which is the state’s federally designated State
Historic Preservation Oiffce (SHPO).
These guidelines provide guidance for the
protection and enhancement of signiflcant
historic structures, sites and districts.
Additionally, the guidelines deflne the
appropriateness of requested changes to
existing historic structures and the approval
of harmonious new construction within
historic districts with attention to scale,
massing, proportion, materials, and height.
Mong-Linger Farm, Spring House, WA-IV-004
2 Historic Structures
These guidelines will provide assurance to property owners that their application review will be
based on clear and consistent standards. These guidelines are also designed to be fiexible
and interpreted to accommodate each request as it is measured against the unique
circumstances of each application, existing historic structures and the proposed activities.
In the event of a confiict between state laws, the County’s ordinances and policies and these
Design Guidelines, the HDC will consult with the County Attorney’s Oiffce.
Application Requirements
The HDC makes prompt and proper decisions to issue a Certiflcate of Appropriateness or
comments in support or not in support of applications when suiffcient information is provided
to determine all aspects of a design proposal. The applicant bears the responsibility for
ensuring that all applications are complete and on time.
The following information is determined to be the minimum acceptable to accompany an
application for review by the HDC.
1. Scale drawings and pictures of the existing buildings showing their current condition. *All
photographs must be in color and have excellent clarity, digital format is preferred.
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 descriptions 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 additions or new construction. The relationship to public
road and other points of access shall also be shown. The relationship of other buildings in
the same or adjacent historic districts should be shown.
4. Suiffcient information to determine the appearance of new exterior materials either in the
form of manufacturer’s publications or samples. Photographs are especially helpful.
The Historic District Commission hosts a public meeting on the flrst Wednesday
of each month. Applicants must submit their detailed application at least ten
(10) business days before the meeting to be included on the agenda.
Design Guidelines 3
5. See demolition section for additional application requirements speciflc to that application
type.
Applications that require HDC reviews, which will result in a Certiflcate of Appropriateness that
are approved, approved with conditions or disapproved include:
1. Design review for construction within a Historic Rural Village or Antietam Overlay
2. Design review for construction within a Historic Preservation District
3. Demolition permit review for any structures within a Historic Preservation District or
contributing structures within the Antietam Overlay
4. Determination for the issuance of County property tax credits for properties in the Historic
Preservation District, Antietam Overlay or National Register District within a municipality
with a Historic District Commission
Applications that require HDC reviews, which will result in comments in support or not in
support for the application include:
1. Demolition permit applications for structures identifled on the Maryland Inventory of
Historic Properties that are outside of the review areas listed above
2. Zoning text, map amendments, special exceptions and variances, site plans, and
subdivision applications that affect historic structures or zones (this includes cell towers)
The HDC does not review permit applications for construction under 100 sq ft in the Antietam
Overlay or Rural Village zoning designations. Agricultural building permits are also not
reviewed in those areas. The information listed above is speciflc to the application review of
the Historic District Commission. Additional submittal requirements may be necessary, and
applicants should contact the Division of Permits and Inspections to determine those
requirements. All applications, excluding Historic Preservation Tax Credit, are currently applied
for through the Division of Permits and Inspections.
4 Historic Structures
Evaluation Process
The Commission shall consider only exterior features of a structure which would affect the
historic, archeological, or architectural signiflcance of the site or structure, any portion of which
is visible or intended to be visible from a public way, and does not consider any interior
arrangements, although interior changes may still be subject to building permit procedures.
The Commission renders a decision on a completed application within 45 days of receipt of
the completed application. Failure to act within the specifled time period shall be considered
an approval of the application by the Commission. The 45-day review period may be extended
upon agreement by the Commission and the applicant.
1. The application shall be approved by the Commission if it is consistent with the following
criteria:
A. The proposal does not substantially alter the exterior features of the structure
B. The proposal is compatible in character and nature with the historical, cultural,
architectural, or archeological features of the site, structure or district and would not be
detrimental to achievement of the purposes of Article 20 of the County Zoning
Ordinance.
C. The proposal would enhance or aid in the protection, preservation and public or private
utilization of the site or structure, in a manner compatible with its historical,
archeological, architectural or cultural value.
D. The proposal is necessary in order that unsafe conditions or health hazards be
remedied.
E. The "Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation and Guidelines for
Rehabilitating Historic Buildings" and subsequent revisions are to be used as guidance
only and are not to be considered mandatory.
2. In reviewing the plans for any such construction or change, the Commission shall give
consideration to and not disapprove an application except with respect to the factors
specifled below.
1. The historic or architectural value and signiflcance of the site or structure and its
relationship to the historic or architectural value and signiflcance of the surrounding
area.
2. The relationship of the exterior architectural features of the structure to the remainder of
the structure and to the surrounding area.
Design Guidelines 5
3. The general compatibility of exterior design, scale, proportion, arrangement, texture,
and materials proposed to be used.
4. Any other factors including aesthetic factors, which the Commission deems to be
pertinent.
3. The Commission shall be strict in its judgment of plans for those structures, sites or districts
deemed to be valuable according to studies performed for districts of historic or
architectural value. The Commission shall be lenient in its judgment of plans involving new
construction, unless such plans would seriously impair the historic or architectural value of
surrounding structures.
For Rural Villages, additional review criteria for applications is listed in Section 5D.5
Architectural Review of the Zoning Ordinance and include:
1. 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.
2. Building Size and Orientation
3. Landscaping
4. Signage
5. Lighting
6. Setbacks
7. Accessory structures
Click to View Document
6 Historic Structures
Demolition
Washington County encourages the retention of signiflcant buildings, structures, sites, objects,
or other historic resources within the County. Given the irreversible nature of demolition, full
deliberation of all alternatives before action is essential.
Additional Resources:
Preservation Brief #31— Mothballing of Historical Buildings
Demolition Permit Application Requirements
The following demolition permit application requirements are in addition to the Application
Requirements listed previously for the Historic District Commission. Demolition permits that
involve multiple structures such as a farmstead or site should include documentation that will
enable full review of all involved structures. The applicant bears the responsibility for ensuring
that all applications are complete and on time.
The demolition permit number, provided after permit application with Division of Permits and
Inspections must accompany the demolition application materials listed below. Materials may
be submitted digitally to the Department of Planning & Zoning at askplanning@washco-
md.net once the permit application has been flled. The materials requested by the HDC are
strictly for their review. Applicants may be required to provide additional materials to other
reviewing agencies.
A. Written description and history of the building or structure to be demolished.
B. Detailed drawings, such as construction or trim details.
C. Floor plan for each fioor level, drawn to approximate scale or fully dimensioned.
D. Applicant’s plan for the recycling of waste generated
E. A report analyzing the following alternatives (listed in descending order of preference) as
to the feasibility. The report shall consist of thorough, deliberative analyses of each of the
alternatives, explaining why each alternative is or is not feasible and additional
photographs should be provided in support of the analysis. In cases where a permit may
involve multiple structures, each structure must have its alternatives documented.
Design Guidelines 7
• Redesigning the project to avoid any impact to the structure or its setting;
• Incorporating the structures into the overall design of the project;
• Converting the structure into another use (adaptive reuse);
• Relocating the structure on the property;
• Relocating the structure to another property;
• Salvaging from the structure historically signiflcant architectural features and building
materials;
• Documenting the structure as a whole and its individual architectural features in
photographs, drawings, and/or text. This documentation should follow the Standards
and Guidelines for Architectural and Historical Investigations in Maryland and be
completed by a professional as listed in those Standards.
F. A site plan illustrating any proposed development or introduction of plantings following
demolition (if applicable)
The HDC highly encourages the early review and involvement of the Maryland Historical Trust
(MHT), when applicable, using their Project Review Form. The instances where MHT should be
consulted include buildings, sites, and projects that involve State or Federal funding or may
require state or federal permits, for example, a state highways entrance permit. This review will
ensure that the Section 106 process, if needed, is at least started before the HDC reviews a
demolition permit. This process allows for greater consulting party input.
The HDC may request additional information from the applicant resulting from the review and
discussion of the application. This is to ensure that the structure has been fully documented
before a Certiflcate of Appropriateness or support of a demolition permit occurs. This
documentation could include supporting documents from licensed professionals such as an
architect, engineer, or restoration specialists.
8 Historic Structures
Demolition Permit Evaluation
In considering a request for a Certiflcate of Appropriateness or comment to demolish a
structure, the Commission will weigh the criteria listed in the Evaluation Process previously
discussed.
Demolition Permit Review
Demolition review is a legal tool that provides the Historic District Commission with the means
to ensure that potentially signiflcant buildings and structures are not demolished without
notice and review. This process creates a safety net for historic resources to ensure that
buildings and structures worthy of preservation are not inadvertently demolished.
Demolition review does not always prevent the demolition of historically signiflcant buildings
or structures. Rather, as the name suggests, it allows for review of applications for demolition
permits for a speciflc period to assess a building’s historical signiflcance.
If the applicant or the HDC requests additional guidance regarding the property to determine
signiflcance or documentation status, the Maryland Historical Trust may be contacted to assess
a to-be-demolished structure. The Maryland Historical Trust does not have a formal role in
regulating or reviewing local demolitions but will act as a technical resource if needed.
Failure to Comply or Willful Disregard
Failure to comply or disregarding these policies will result in applicable flnes being
administered.
Design Guidelines 9
Ordinary Maintenance
Routine or ordinary maintenance is deflned as work that does not alter the exterior features of
a Historic Site or contributing structure.
Maintenance of all structures, historic or otherwise, is strongly encouraged. Routine
maintenance of buildings in the historic preservation zone, rural villages, or properties listed
on the Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties may not require review or approval by the
Historic District Commission, a Certiflcate of Appropriateness, or a building permit. However, it
is strongly recommended that if there are questions regarding work on a historic structure that
the customer reach out to the Historic District Commission prior to starting the work. The
Historic District Commission is a resource for proper treatments and can assist in determining
if the changes are within the scope of ordinary maintenance. Ordinary or routine maintenance
is work that does not alter the exterior features of a Historic Site or contributing structure. Key
exterior features include roof materials, doors, windows, moldings etc. and these are discussed
later in detail in these guidelines.
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 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 construction, the cost associated with
maintenance work is not eligible for tax credits.
Additional Resources:
Preservation Brief #3— Improving Energy Eiffciency in Historic Buildings
Preservation Brief #39—Holding the Line: Controlling Unwanted Moisture in Historic Buildings
Preservation Brief #47—Maintaining the Exterior of Small and Medium Size Historic Buildings
10 Historic Structures
A Short History of Washington County
The flrst European settlers who arrived in Lord Baltimore’s colony of Maryland in 1634 were
mostly English Catholics. It took another 100 years before the flrst 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 have the greatest impact on the landscape and architecture. 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
refiective of their Dutch, German, Swiss, Italian, Bohemian and English descent. With the
farming of vast acreages, there is evidence through outbuildings and deed references that
landowners in the County owned slaves or indentured servants to tend to the land. As a result,
there are examples of institutional buildings such as schools to support the African American
community as well as vernacular structures which were later homes to the freed.
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
descendants is a diverse accumulation of architectural styles and construction methods 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 refiected in the stone houses,
barns and bridges which 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 buildings appeared, refiecting the flnancial prosperity there. Other
humbler structures were built elsewhere, representing the more common agricultural
settlements. It is fortunate that many of the older buildings of our early days remain, and the
purpose of these Guidelines is to assist those who wish to preserve and restore these
important aspects of our unique culture.
Design Guidelines 11
Sunshine Hill, WA-VI--013
Old Forge Farm, Surveyor’s Last Shift, WA-I-054
Valentia, WA-I-231
Stone Hill, WA-II-403
Photo Credit (All Photos): WCHT
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Design Guidelines 13
Whether magniflcently restored or lovingly
maintained, the historic properties that dot
Washington County’s rural roads and rolling
hills are flne adornments in the rich tapestry
comprising Maryland’s diverse history.
Washington County contains examples of a
wide variety of styles of 18th, 19th, and early
20th century residential and commercial
architecture, including Federal, Greek
Revival, 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
architecture designed structures with
numerous modiflcations. Through their
decorative detailing, these vernacular
buildings refiect the infiuences of popular
styles.
The character-deflning elements that deflne 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 distinguishing
features of the architectural styles most
commonly represented throughout
Washington County.
Architectural Styles of Washington County
Keewaydin, Mt. Angelwood, WA-IV-089 Photo Credit: WCHT
14 Historic Structures
The term vernacular (or folk) architecture generally refers to buildings not planned by an
architect but based upon regional traditions, the materials at hand, and some expedience.
Vernacular Forms 18th—19th Century
The earliest houses in Washington County do not flt easily into any particular category, but
they can be grouped by several identifying features that refiect the changes in 18th and 19th
century rural domestic architecture.
Character Defining Elements
1730 to 1760
• Stone, log or log-encased clapboard over
a rough-stone foundation
• Constructed over a spring
• 1 to 1 ½ or 2 stories
• Steeply pitched roofs
• Large central chimneys
• Very small window openings
• Batten doors
• Puncheon logs and rocks as insulation
between the basement and flrst fioor
1760 to 1790
• Stone, log or log-encased clapboard over
a stone foundation
• Usually 2 stories
• Jack Arches over windows
• Gable-end chimneys
• More reflned cut stones, quoined corners
• Mid-century structures refiect a variety of
styles, dependent on the ethnicity of the
builder
Kammerer House, WA-I-013 David’s Friendship, WA-I-388
Design Guidelines 15
1790 to 1820
• Stone, brick, clapboard
• One to two stories
• Often with two front doors
• Segmented arches above windows
• Gable-end chimneys
1820 to 1860
• Stone, brick, clapboard
• One to two stories
• Plan lentil above windows
Scratch Ankle Farm, WA-II-084 Brightwood, WA-I-216
Photo Credits: WCHT and Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties
(MIHP), Maryland Historical Trust
16 Historic Structures
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 successive rulers of Great Britain, King George I through King George IV, who ruled
England while Georgian architecture was popular. 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 infiuence.
• 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 dentil work
• 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 fioors, 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 fioors.
Design Guidelines 17
Daniel Donnelly House, WA-II-417
Photo Credit: Paula Stoner Dickey, MIHP
Ditto Knolls, WA-II-093
Photo Credit: WCHT
Hitt-Cost House, WA-II-252
Photo Credit: WCHT
18 Historic Structures
Federal – 1780 to 1840
Houses of the Federal period, constructed
during the flrst 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.
• 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
• Fenestration is symmetrical as Georgian
style.
• Double-hung sash windows for flrst time
(Georgian also) Woburn Manor, WA-II-458
Ferry Hill, WA-II-035 Rose Hill, WA-I-374
Photo Credits: WCHT
Design Guidelines 19
Greek Revival – circa
1830 to 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).
• 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 Plumb Grove Mansion, WA-V-015
20 Historic Structures
Italianate/Italian
Villa – circa 1830 to
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 façades, while the “Italian
Village” type is based on the designs of rural
farmhouses in Italy and are characterized by
an asymmetrical L or T shaped fioor plan with
a tall tower.
• Low-pitched gable or hipped roof
(attached buildings may have shed roofs)
• Eave cornice with decorative brackets
• Walls are given a smooth flnish; flnely
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 façade, or a
small portico may deflne the entrance
Streetscape in Williamsport, WA-WIL-025, WA-WIL-026 & WA-WIL-027
Design Guidelines 21
Second Empire – circa
1860 to 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 François
Mansart. The style became popular in France
during the Second Empire (1852-70), and
spread to the United States in the 1860’s.
• Generally symmetrical, rectangular in plan
and 2 ½ 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.
Rufus Wilson Complex, WA-V-074
22 Historic Structures
Queen Anne and
other Victorian
Styles – circa 1880-
1910
The Queen Anne style is derived from
medieval English architectural forms.
• 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
• Façade may have various projecting bays
• Row houses often have second-story oriel
windows
• Porch may span façade, sometimes wraps
around corner 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.
Eby House, WA-I-328
Design Guidelines 23
Colonial Revival – circa 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 characterized Victoria design. Colonial Revival buildings often combine turn-of-the-
century building forms with decorative elements derived from 18th-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.
• Generally symmetrical façade, 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 proflle, 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 façade, with transom and sidelights
Classical Revival – circa 1900-1920
Developed in America in the flrst quarter of the 20th century, this style was popular for public
and commercial buildings; its monumentality was frequently used in the construction of bank
buildings. 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 flnished in flne materials such as marble.
• Classical Greek and Roman architectural elements; columns, round arches, heavy
entablatures, often with elaborate detail
• Symmetry in plans, use of wings or corner pavilions
• Used for government and civic buildings; common for banks
WA-II-385
WA-HAN-055
24 Historic Structures
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 effects 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
architecture 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 flrst appeared about 1890 and
remained popular well in to the 1930s. In essence, a box, or two stacked boxes, the American
Foursquare lent itself to endless variations and flnish 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 suiffciently to have become of
interest. 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 proflle, and minimal use of exterior and interior decoration.
Bungalows, often associated with the Craftsman Style, are characteristically smaller houses.
These structures were predominantly built after 1905 and construction of the style began in
California, the state where the architects most associated with the Craftsman style, Greene and
Green were based. This style of house was frequently found in pattern books for purchase, and
some were even offered as complete packages including materials to be built on site.
Design Guidelines 25
Foursquare
• Simple fioor plan
• Boxy, cubic shape
• Full width front porch with columnar
supports and wide stairs
• Offset front entry in an otherwise
symmetrical façade
• 2 to 2 ½ 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
• Open fioor plans
• Low pitched roofiines with wide
eaves, often hipped or gabled
• Attached garage or carports
• Large windows and sliding glass
doors
Maugansville, WA-I-781 Maugansville , WA-I-804 Ranch House, Benny Drive , Hagerstown
Bungalow
• Low-pitched, gabled roof (front, side
or cross gabled roof)
• Wide overhanging eaves
• Exposed rafters under eaves
• Decorative brackets (knee braces or
corbels)
• Front corner porches under roofiine
• Tapered or squared columns
supporting roof or porch
• 4 over 1 or 6 over 1 sash windows
• Hand-crafted stone or woodwork
26 Historic Structures
Common Accessory Structures—Pre 1930
Many structures within the County are part of a complex of buildings all of which contribute to
the history of the County and site. These structures create a historic landscape. They are often
of similar construction to the main structure on the property, but they could have been built
prior to or after the main structure depending on the development of the complex.
Bank Barn
These are 2 story structures built into a hill or bank with the lower level being equipped for
housing animals while the upper levels were used for storage. The second fioor is often
extended, or cantilevered, over the flrst providing shelter for animals. Columns or posts may
support the overhangs. Barns can be constructed of masonry or wood. The narrow-end side
walls are frequently brick or stone with openings for ventilation which can appear in a
decorative pattern. In some cases the barn may include distinctive paint colors such as red or
white. Sign painters used the large exterior wall spaces for design advertisements. Cupolas
and weather vanes are often present in varying number and conflgurations.
Spring House
These structures are typically single story or two story masonry construction. They have varying
sizes in the County from small 1 room buildings to larger multi room buildings. They are built
over a spring on the farm complex and would be used for the protection of the water source
and refrigeration. Location of the house and barn in relation to the spring would be an
important component in the landscape of the complex. They were often distanced from animal
husbandry buildings to protect the water source.
Bank Barn at WA-II-286 Mong-Linger Farm, Spring House, WA-IV-004
Design Guidelines 27
Summer Kitchen
These single story structures are usually built directly behind a main house in a building
complex. They can be constructed of various materials including log and stone, but generally
have a large stone flreplace on the narrow-end side wall. They had 1 to 2 bays of windows with
a single entry door. Summer kitchens were for cooking and canning during the summer
months to keep the heat from the flreplace out of the main house. In some cases these
structures are now attached to the main structure of the complex through enclosure or
breezeways.
Smokehouse
These were typically single-story structures of masonry (stone or brick). Structures could also
be made from frame, log or a combination. Gabled roofs were predominant, but there are
examples of pyramidal roofs in the County. These were used for the preparation and
preservation of food. They would typically have a single door with no chimney or windows to
contain the smoke being used for preservation. Hardware for hanging or laying meats to dry
may still be present in the structures. They were still sited near the house and may be close to
summer kitchen.
Stone wall and Stone Fence - 1750-1850
Stone walls in the County are typically cut stone laid with mortar and topped with either
angular or fiat stone. These are prominent features around ecclesiastical sites for example.
Often visible from the right of way and adding to the rural landscape are stone fences which
are fleldstone, typically fiat, laid without mortar. They are frequently found along property lines
or dividing pasture and croplands in the rural areas. Each of these are often several courses in
height making them at least 3 feet in height.
Stone Fence along Dam #4 Rd, WA-II-275 Stone Walls at St Marks , WA-II-024
Summer Kitchen-Plumb Grove,
WA-V-015
Photo Credit: CSHA
Smokehouse, Oak Springs Farm,
WA-V-093
Photo Credit: CSHA
28 Historic Structures
Commercial Buildings – 1890 to 1930
Commercial buildings dating from 1890 to 1930 are distinguished by large windows arranged
in groups on their façades. Developed in Chicago in the 1890s, this style drew upon the
structural innovation 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
flnish commercial building façades 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.
• Vertical emphases 2-4 stories in height
• Flat roofs
• Masonry wall surfaces
• Three-part windows or projecting bay windows
• Decorative cornices
• Steel and beam construction
• Ground fioor storefronts
Commercial Buildings – Post 1930
Art deco
• Sharp edge, linear appearance
• Smooth wall surface usually stucco
• Geometric forms, zizags and chevrons or stylized motifs on the façade
• Low relief decorative panels
• Towers and vertical elements
• Strips of windows with decorative panels
• Stepped or set back front façade
• Fluting around doors and windows
Douglas Chevrolet, WA-HAN-054
Professional Arts Building
WA-HAG-057
Design Guidelines 29
Gas Stations—Post
1910
• Varied exterior materials including frame,
rusticated concrete block, and stucco
• Historicized roofs, matching borrowed
architectural style or fiat roofs with very
low slope
• Borrowed architectural styles to blend to
surrounding neighborhood
• Box-Type Stations which can be in the Art
Modern style
• Multi-use, structures which can include
convenience store, restaurant or car
repair garages attached
• Service bays
• Attached or detached canopies being fiat
or stylized
• Gas pumps which could be covered by
canopies directly adjacent to structure or
very close to road right of ways
• Signage indicating name or services
• Associated outbuildings (car washes,
garages, storage sheds etc.)
Additional Resources
Preservation Brief #46—The Preservation and
Reuse of Historic Gas Stations
Himes General Store, Weverton Road, WA-III-031
30 Historic Structures
St. Mark’s, WA-II-024
Beard’s Church, WA-I-056
Tolson’s Chapel, WA-II-202
Ecclesiastical
Architecture
Ecclesiastical architecture was dramatically
infiuenced by English architect James Barr’s
book entitled Anglican Church Architecture.
The book was flrst published in 1842 and is
dedicated to the Oxford Society for
Promoting the Study of Gothic Architecture.
A second edition followed in 1843, and a
third in 1846 .
• Simple one storied, gable roofed
structures
• Masonry Structure Walls
• Gothic or Romanesque revival
architectural characteristics including
pointed arch windows which may include
tracery and doors with transoms
• Single or double entrance doors
• Steeples, Towers with bells
• Varied Sash conflgurations but may
include decorative stain glass in multiple
bays
• Outbuildings, adjacent cemeteries and
structures such as stone walls may
contribute to landscape and be similarly
styled
St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, WA-III-012
Design Guidelines 31
Schoolhouses
Early 20th century schoolhouses in
Washington County tended to be one room,
single story structures. The exterior materials
of the school houses varied with wood, brick
and stone being common. The building
shape is usually rectangular or square and
often includes a gable end roof with
prominent front entrances. There are several
bays of windows to allow adequate lighting
of the classroom. The buildings may also
include a bell or belfry top. There are many
surviving school houses in the County which
have been repurposed into uses such as
community buildings, museums or
commercial businesses.
Historic Markers
Washington County is bordered on the north by one of the most famous boundaries in the
United States, the Mason-Dixon Line. Settling a property dispute between the Penns of
Pennsylvania and the Calverts of Maryland, these mile markers were decorated and placed at
one mile intervals along what is now the northern State Line of Maryland. These markers are
large blocks of limestone with engravings on each State’s side. The historical signiflcance of
these mile markers and the line they mark spans from colonial times through the Civil War.
The National Road or Old National Pike as it’s also known, has historical markers along the
north side of its length. The stones are owned by the State of Maryland as they reside in the
right of way. The flrst stone was placed at the Baltimore Courthouse and they continue along
the route throughout the County at one mile intervals. These are much smaller than the Mason
Dixon markers. They are engraved on the side facing the road indicating the distance to “B” or
Baltimore. These stones are also varying in the material. Some are limestone and some are
quartzite. Both these examples and other historic markers are often on the National Register
and should never be moved, stabilized or otherwise altered without the express consent and
supervision of the Maryland Historical Trust.
Rohrersville Schoolhouse, WA-III-166
National Road Mile Marker, WA-II-728
32 Historic Structures
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Design Guidelines 33
The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for
the Treatment of Historic Properties with
Guidelines for Preserving, Rehabilitating,
Restoring & Reconstructing Historic Buildings
provides an explanation of treatments for
historic properties and their respective
standards and guidelines. The Standards
were originally developed in 1976 and have
had subsequent updates. The HDC will use
the most recent edition published by the
National Park Service in conjunction with the
Washington County Historic Guidelines for
review. The Standards were originally
developed to ensure properties receiving
federal funding or federal tax beneflts have a
consistent review. They are written to apply
to wide variety of resource types and have
found wide use at the Federal, State and
Local levels as a basis for design guidelines.
Standards for Review
Barn at the Dennis Farm, WA-V-025 Photo Credit: CSHA
34 Historic Structures
There are four treatment types described in the Secretary of Interiors (SOI) Standards:
Preservation, Restoration, Reconstruction and Rehabilitation.
Preservation is the maintenance and repair of existing historic materials or preservation of the
structure in its current form with little or no replacement or new addition.
Restoration aims to return a building to a speciflc time period, acknowledging the need to
remove changes since that time and recreate previous aspects that have been removed.
Reconstruction re-creates vanished or non-surviving portions of a property for interpretive
purposes.
While these three treatments may be applied at the owner’s request during HDC review, The
Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation are the basis of the Washington
County Historic Design Guidelines.
Standards for Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation is deflned by the SOI as the act or process of making possible an eiffcient
compatible use for a property through repair, alterations, and additions, while preserving
those portions or features which convey its historical, cultural, or architectural values (36 CFR
68.2(b)). The Standards are as follows:
1. A property will be used as it was historically or be given a new use that requires minimal
change to its distinctive materials, features, spaces and spatial relationships.
2. The historic character of a property will be retained and preserved. The removal of
distinctive materials or alteration of features, spaces and spatial relationships that
characterize a property will be avoided.
3. Each property will be recognized as a physical record of its time, place and use. Changes
that create a false sense of historical development, such as adding conjectural features or
elements from other historic properties, will not be undertaken.
4. Changes to a property that have acquired historic signiflcance in their own right will be
retained and preserved.
5. Distinctive materials, features, flnishes, and construction techniques or examples of
craftsmanship that characterize a property will be preserved.
Design Guidelines 35
6. Deteriorated historic features 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, texture and, where possible, materials. Replacement of missing
features will be substantiated by documentary and physical evidence.
7. Chemical or physical treatments, if appropriate, will be undertaken using the gentlest
means possible. Treatments that cause damage to historic materials will not be used.
8. Archeological resources will be protected and preserved in place. If such resources must
be disturbed, mitigation measures will be undertaken.
9. New additions, exterior alterations, or related new construction will not destroy historic
materials, features, and spatial relationships that characterize the property. The new work
will be differentiated from the old and will be compatible with the historic materials,
features, size, scale and proportion, and massing to protect the integrity of the property
and its environment.
10. New additions and adjacent or related new construction will be undertaken 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.
These Standards are the underlying basis of the SOI guidelines which provide explanations
that are applicable to a wide range of projects. The County’s Design Guidelines are meant to
supplement and further provide local examples.
36 Historic Structures
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Design Guidelines 37
Guidelines
These Design Guidelines are made available
to assist owners of historic buildings in
understanding how historic preservation
policies affect their plans to maintain,
preserve, or enhance their properties. The
information provided is intended to assist
with planning and implementing projects in a
way which is mindful of the historic nature of
both the property being reviewed and its
surroundings.
If appropriate, the Historic District
Commission may reference speciflc
treatment guidelines from The Secretary of
the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation that
may not be listed in this document either due
to summarization or update to the Secretary’s
documentation. References to appropriate
documentation will be made in any
Certiflcate of Appropriateness that is issued.
It is recommended that the Guidelines
included be consulted prior to application
with the appropriate County agency or
applying for a Certiflcate of Appropriateness
with the Historic District Commission.
Gum Tree Farm, WA-II-371
38 Historic Structures
Themes: Identify Retain Preserve
These guidelines acknowledge that buildings have been and will be altered over time. They
are not meant to discourage change but rather to encourage compatible and sensitive change
to the site and existing buildings. It is important to note that the Commission is flrst and
foremost a resource and can provide consultation regarding proposed changes before work
has even begun or permits applied for. In fact, this is preferred, especially in cases where Local,
State or Federal tax credits may be sought.
There are several key themes to the guidelines that should be considered no matter the topic
discussed and they include:
1. Identify, retain, and preserve features that are important in deflning the overall historic
character of the building or site. If repair or replacement is necessary, use materials that
match the original as closely as possible. The Commission can help to identify key site and
building features which is the flrst priority before standards and guidelines can even be
applied.
2. Protect and Maintain features by practicing routine maintenance and ensuring site
protection through documentation of the resource and consideration of resource details
such as proper drainage around the site and its resources.
3. Repair or replace damaged or missing units using materials that match the original as
closely as possible. If a feature is missing it should be replaced based on documentary or
photographic evidence. If no evidence of the design of the feature exists, a new design
compatible with similar details existing on the building or site as well as the overall
character of the building or site should be used.
Setting and Site
One of the seven considerations for resource integrity for National Register consideration is
setting. Setting is the large scale physical environment of an historic property. The setting
extends beyond the features directly on a parcel and can involve the greater surrounding
landscape. The relationship of buildings to each other, setbacks, fence patterns, views,
circulation systems and landscaping all contribute to the setting. The building site consists of a
historic building or buildings, structures, and associated landscape features and their
relationship within a designed or legally-deflned parcel of land. A site may be signiflcant in its
own right or because of its association with the historic building or buildings. The Zoning
Ordinance has an additional deflnition for the term site which includes the physical as well as
the visual elements. (Washington County, Maryland, 2021, p. 190)
Design Guidelines 39
Protect Maintain Repair Replace
Viewsheds
The views to and from historic resources, districts or rural communities contribute signiflcantly
to their character. Viewsheds can be large in scale, such as the viewshed around the Antietam
National Battlefleld or smaller such as the view from a window or flxed point around a historic
structure. The Zoning Ordinance has measures in place such as the Antietam Overlay and
Historic Preservation Overlay, which offer protection to viewsheds around identifled resources,
but it’s important to acknowledge the varying scale of viewsheds and impact their integrity can
have on the context of the resources in the County.
Site and Landscape Design Features
Landforms, Plantings and Landscapes
Landforms include, but are not limited to, terraces, berms and grading on a site. Trees,
hedgerows, shrubs, cultivated flelds, 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 some of the greatest impact on the setting for many
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. Mature plantings often set the context of both public and private spaces in
historic structures.
Fences and Walls
Throughout the County there are a variety of fences and walls marking property boundaries,
conflning livestock, protecting crop flelds and providing security and privacy. The materials
and construction range from metal to stone to wood, however, stacked or mortared limestone
or wood are the most common. Stylistically, the design 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.
Manor Church of the Brethren,
WA-II-170
Looking North toward WA-II-184
40 Historic Structures
Themes: Identify Retain Preserve
Circulation Systems (Driveways, Walkways and Parking Areas)
Circulation systems serve the purpose of allowing movement of pedestrians and vehicles into
and around historic resources. The materials, extent and pattern of these systems can vary
dramatically between urban, suburban and rural settings. More urban or suburban settings
tend to include short, straight and paved concrete or asphalt driveways. Sidewalks and
walkways are variable in material as well but usually parallel the streets and are separated from
private walks by a step or change in grade. Buildings in these areas are typically facing the
street. Parking areas are either on-street or in asphalt parking lots. The more rural systems tend
to include long, curved driveways with a gravel base. The rural systems also sometimes
include gateposts fianking the entry to the drive and trees to either side of the driveway.
Walkways constructed of gravel, concrete, brick or stone are still found in the rural area often
linking formal or informal parking areas, gardens or entrances to the building.
Guidelines For Existing
1. Features should not be moved or relocated nor should circulation routes be interrupted.
2. Spatial relationships between buildings on sites should be maintained.
3. If possible, intrusions into viewsheds should be removed or masked with appropriate
vegetation.
4. Existing plantings should be maintained by fertilizing, pruning, treating for disease or in
other appropriate ways. If replacement due to deterioration or disease is necessary, it
should be an identical or similar species. Use of native species of plants is encouraged
when appropriate. Invasive species should be avoided or removed if possible. The
Commission recommends referencing the Maryland Department of Natural Resources
(MDDNR) or United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) invasive species information
when considering changes to plants.
5. Maintain major patterns of vegetation in working landscapes.
6. Any changes made to features surrounding a historic resource should be compatible with
the existing. An archaeological assessment should be made prior to any changes.
7. Disturbance to the earth and terrain should be minimized, especially around building
foundations.
8. Maintain proper site drainage to prevent water damage.
9. See also Key Themes. (p.38)
Walkway, Plumb Grove, WA-V-015
Design Guidelines 41
Protect Maintain Repair Replace
Guidelines for Proposed
The guidelines for existing site details should be consulted in addition to those below.
1. Select new plantings and design changes to landscapes adjacent to historic properties to
be compatible with the existing. Locate new plantings so that they maintain or enhance the
property’s historic character and its context.
2. Consideration as to whether, at maturity, plantings will affect building systems such as
gutters, foundations, etc. should be given in design.
3. The location of new site features including fences, walls, parking, etc. should be compatible
with the overall character of the historic resource and its landscape. Review of the
proposed design will include materials, height, conflguration, scale and details.
4. Consider screening parking areas or other added site features when appropriate and
feasible.
5. New parking areas should heavily consider existing historic circulation patterns in the
design and the location of those areas. They should not be within the primary viewshed of a
historic resource or landscape.
6. Access points for vehicles or pedestrians to parking areas should minimize impacts on the
historic landscape and its rhythm through use of rear parking and alley access where
feasible.
7. See also Key Themes. (p.38)
Additional Resources:
MD DNR Invasive Species Information—https://dnr.maryland.gov/Invasives
USDA Invasive Species Information—https://www.invasivespeciesinfo.gov/
42 Historic Structures
Themes: Identify Retain Preserve
Patios, Decks and Other Site Features
Patios, decks and other site features such as pools or ponds are a common feature on many
historic properties throughout the County, though they may not be historic in nature. In many
cases, patios, paved outdoor areas adjoining the structure, are more appropriate for historic
structures than a deck. Decks, horizontal wood plank construction adjoining the structure, are
more appropriate and common in the County on late 20th century or later historic structures.
Many of the County’s identifled resources are 19th century or earlier making them less
appropriate. These site features are also often tied to the circulation network of the overall site.
Water features such as pools or ponds may contribute to the historic setting of the site or have
been added to extend the living space on the property.
Guidelines
1. Damage to the principal structure and/or obstruction of its character deflning features by
the change or addition of site features should be minimized.
2. New features should be sited to avoid demolition of contributing structures.
3. Changes to the existing design or the design of new patios, decks and other site features
should be compatible with the form, scale, proportions, materials and details of the
principal building.
4. Locate new patios, decks and other new site features so that the existing signiflcant visual
and spatial characteristics of the historic resource are maintained. This often means
avoiding siting of these features on the primary façade.
5. Locate new patios, decks, and other site features so that signiflcant viewsheds are
maintained or enhanced. Screening should be used to minimize impacts to the landscape.
6. See also Key Themes. (p.38)
Deck, Oak Springs Farm, WA-V-093
Photo Credit: CSHA
Design Guidelines 43
Protect Maintain Repair Replace
Archaeological Resources
It is common for the County to have sites which are solely archaeological in nature but also
most historic sites have some information that can be gathered through archaeological
investigations. Archaeology is the study of human life in the past through the analysis of
material remains. Those study areas may be at varying levels of visibility on a site and can
include features such as lime kilns to uncovering areas of use buried by time. The artifacts
could be anything from tools to decorative pieces and vary in material including glass, pottery,
stone or even clothing. Archaeological resources help to bridge a knowledge gap about the
use of a property that can occur with written and oral history.
Archaeological assessments can have several phases. Phase I typically involves examining site
records, interviewing local historians as well as maps, aerial photography or deeds. Shovel
tests or sampling may occur on site as well. The main goal of this phase is to identify if
resources are present. The HDC encourages all property owners to consider including a Phase
I archaeological assessment for projects they are undertaking on historic sites. Phase II
essentially involves subsurface site work through test areas to further identify the extent and
gather suiffcient information to determine if the site is National Register eligible. More
extensive research will also occur at this phase. Phase III involves recovery and mitigation of the
resources. Phases I and II would hopefully provide areas to avoid so that Phase III would be
limited if even necessary.
Guidelines
1. Professional archaeological assessments should be made before any ground disturbing
projects takes place. This assessment is recommended early in the design process.
2. To the extent feasible with other state and local regulations, ground disturbance should be
minimized for areas that have not had full archaeological assessments completed.
3. Locate new construction so that archaeological resources are not disturbed.
4. If protecting archaeological resources during construction is not feasible, conduct
archaeology and recordation using best practices before construction begins.
5. If locating the new construction so that archaeological resources are not disturbed is not
feasible, protect the resources during construction using best practices.
6. See also Key Themes. (p.38)
Additional Resources:
Standards and Guidelines for Archeological Investigations in Maryland– MHT
Investigations at the Saylor House,
WA-I-132
Photo Credit: WCHT
44 Historic Structures
Themes: Identify Retain Preserve
Cemeteries
Cemeteries are also important sources of information about the history of Washington County.
Family plots on private rural properties are not uncommon while larger cemeteries such as
those associated with churches or private entities are also prevalent. Regardless of the scale,
these cemeteries are sites containing features which contribute to the cultural landscape and
they should be preserved. The State of Maryland has protections in place for the disturbance
of human remains that extends to the burial grounds of the remains. Should human remains
be discovered accidentally, the law requires notiflcation of the county States Attorney. Features
of importance in the cemetery may include the gravestones, fences, gates, circulation paths,
and landscaping.
If cleaning or repairs to markers, gravestones, or memorials are needed, the material should
flrst be identifled, and conditions documented. Some surfaces may be too delicate for
cleaning. Cleaning should be performed using the gentlest means possible and chemical
cleaners should not be used before consulting a masonry conservator.
If a citizen is unsure of the status of a cemetery with the County’s records, the Department of
Planning and Zoning should be contacted to determine if it is identifled for planning purposes.
Guidelines
1. Gravestones, fences, gateways and other signiflcant features of cemeteries should be
retained and preserved.
2. Leaning, loose or toppled gravestones, should be stabilized, righted and re-anchored
using techniques and tools appropriate to the type of historic stone comprising the marker.
3. Deteriorated fences, gateways and other signiflcant features of cemeteries should be
repaired using the same materials or materials that are like the original in scale, texture,
design and color.
4. Weeds and overgrown landscape materials should be controlled.
5. Fertilizers, biocides, and heavy landscaping equipment that may damage markers,
headstones and memorials should be avoided.
6. See also Key Themes. (p.38)
Additional Resources:
Preservation Brief #48—Preserving Grave Markers in Historic Cemeteries
Washington County Cemeteries Story Map—Washington County GIS Page
Cemetery, Manor Church of the
Brethren, WA-II-170
Design Guidelines 45
Protect Maintain Repair Replace
Existing Accessory Buildings
Accessory buildings are those that support the use of the main building on the same parcel of
land. In the rural areas, the buildings had a variety of domestic and agricultural uses. Storage
sheds, garages, kitchens, wells and privies were located near the main house, while barns and
other agricultural structures were distanced from the residential uses but remained grouped
for agricultural production. Many accessory buildings are signiflcant or contribute to the
overall building site due to their own unique characteristics. Agricultural buildings as deflned
in the zoning ordinance are not reviewed by the Commission. Other accessory buildings in
more urban settings may still include those listed above with the addition of more mixed uses
such as a commercial gas station sharing the property with a single family home. Many times
the structures are located to the rear of the primary building and may not be visible from a
right of way but they still contribute to the overall site.
Guidelines
1. Accessory buildings that signiflcantly contribute to the principal structure or are signiflcant
should be retained, well-maintained and preserved, including their siting, orientation,
design, scale, materials of construction and detailing. Adaptive reuse of these structures to
enable continued utility of the structure is encouraged when necessary.
2. 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. Ordinary maintenance is encouraged.
3. Those that are deteriorated beyond repair may be replaced with new ones that should
resemble the original in siting, scale, proportion, fenestration, materials and color as closely
as possible.
4. In cases where fading, painted, historic mural signs – “ghost signs” – are present on the
exterior of the structure, they should be left as found.
5. See also Key Themes. (p.38)
Additional Resources
Preservation Brief #20—The Preservation of Historic Barns
Outbuilding, WA,-III-020
Smokehouse, Oak Springs Farm,
WA-V-093
Photo Credit: CSHA
46 Historic Structures
Themes: Identify Retain Preserve
Rehabilitation of Existing Buildings
As mentioned previously, rehabilitation is deflned by the Secretary of the Interior (SOI) as the
act or process of making possible an eiffcient compatible use for a property through repair,
alterations, and additions, while preserving those portions or features which convey its
historical, cultural, or architectural values (36 CFR 68.2(b)). This standard treatment is the most
widely applicable in the County and therefore the accepted reference for the Commission.
At this time the Commission is only tasked with reviewing the exterior of existing buildings,
additions or new construction within areas of review. The SOI Standards and Guidelines also
address building interiors and the Commission encourages their use. The focus of the
following sections will be exterior elements of historic structures or those elements
contributing to the character of the site.
Building Exteriors
Building exteriors are comprised of the walls, roofs, openings, projections, porches and
foundations. These elements include additional features which can have both functional and
decorative details. There are many buildings in the County that combine materials for the
exterior walls or are constructed with decorative facades. This combination can be a design
choice or relay the story of the building’s changes over time. These variations also mean that
many of the structures do not fall into one architectural style. For that reason, architectural style
alone should not be the only consideration in applying a treatment and guidelines to a
property. It is important to also identify and document a historic building through its use of
design principles:
1. Massing refers to the general shape of a building in terms of its depth, width and height. “A
building’s massing is derived from the articulation of its façade through the use of dormers,
towers, bays, porches, steps and other projections. These projections signiflcantly
contribute to the character of the building and, in town, the character of a street. (Calvert
County, 2001)”
2. Scale refers to the size of the building in relation to adjacent structures or of individual
elements to each other and often in relation to an average sized human being. Most
buildings in the rural area of the County are human scaled meaning they are designed to
be comfortable for an average person. There are more monumental buildings of a grander
scale in the County, such as the Courthouse.
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3. “Proportion is the relative dimension of elements of a building to each other and to its
overall façade. Often proportions are expressed as mathematical ratios, drawn from the
architectural theories of ancient Greece and Renaissance Italy. For example, many historic
buildings designed in the Classical Revival style use mathematical proportions to locate
and size windows, doors, columns, cornices and other building elements. (Calvert County,
2001)”
4. Rhythm is “the spacing and repetition of building façade elements, such as windows, doors,
belt courses and the like. The space between freestanding buildings in towns, setbacks
from roadways, as well as the height of roofs, cornices, towers and other roof projections
establishes the rhythm of a street. (Calvert County, 2001)”
Again, there are several key themes to the guidelines that should be considered no matter the
topic discussed and they include:
1. Identify, retain, and preserve features that are important in deflning the overall historic
character of the building or site. If repair or replacement is necessary, use materials that
match the original as closely as possible. The HDC can help to identify key site and building
features which is the flrst priority before standards and guidelines can even be applied.
2. Protect and maintain features by practicing routine maintenance and ensuring site
protection through documentation of the resource and consideration of resource details
such as proper drainage around the site and its resources.
3. Repair or replace damaged or missing units using materials that match the original as
closely as possible. If a feature is missing, it should be replaced based on documentary or
photographic evidence. If no evidence of the design of the feature exists, a new design
compatible with similar details existing on the building or site as well as the overall
character of the building or site should be used.
Additional Resources:
Preservation Brief #16: The Use of Substitute Materials on Historic Building Exteriors
Preservation Brief #17: Architectural Character—Identifying the Visual Aspects of Historic
Buildings as an Aid to Preserving their Character
Preservation Brief #32: Making Historic Properties Accessible
Preservation Brief #37: Appropriate Methods for Reducing Lead-Paint Hazards in Historic
Housing
Preservation Brief #47: Maintaining the Exterior of Small and Medium Size Historic Buildings
48 Historic Structures
Themes: Identify Retain Preserve
Masonry Exteriors
Brick, concrete block and stone are common building materials for historic buildings in
Washington County, either for entire walls, chimneys or for foundations. Masonry can also be
found in brackets, railings, cornices, window architraves, door pediments, steps and columns.
Aside from the masonry itself, the tooling, bonding patterns, coatings and color are all
important to deflning the building.
Bricks could be handmade or machine made which have varying degrees of durability. Brick is
used in the construction of structural walls through a process of laying courses of brick in a
pattern to achieve a bond. Running bond, Common bond, English bond and Flemish bond
are all found in structures in Washington County. The name of the bond describes the header
(short end of the brick) and the stretcher (long end of brick) pattern.
Concrete block was being produced by the early twentieth century. It was an inexpensive
building material that could be molded into shapes that resembled more traditional materials.
Concrete block was used for building foundations and other utilitarian structures such as
barns, milk houses and garages. Rusticated concrete block structures are also prevalent.
(Murphy & Dittenhafer Architects for Frederick County, 2021)
Stone is a very common construction material in the County. Many structures utilize fleldstone
which has routed edges or an irregular shape. Quarried stone is also a material used in
structures which tends to have cut straight edges.
Guidelines
1. If a masonry wall has historically been painted, it should continue to be painted, ideally in
colors that are sympathetic to its historic color scheme. Remove paint from historically
painted walls only in preparation for repainting. Avoid painting historically unpainted
masonry walls.
2. If cleaning a masonry wall is appropriate, it should be
undertaken with the gentlest means possible. Typically,
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.
Flemish
Common/American
Stretcher
Header
Stretcher
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3. Re-pointed mortar joints should match the original in size, depth, proflle, color,
composition and flnishing detail. The type of mortar joint used contributes to the character
of a masonry wall. Avoid the use of incompatible mortar and retain material and
composition when possible. Examples of mortar joints included struck, concave,
weathered, raked, fiush, vee or extruded. For buildings constructed prior to 1900, a very
low Portland cement mortar mix should be used.
4. The application of waterproof coatings to masonry walls can cause moisture to be trapped
inside a masonry cavity. Waterproof coatings should be applied only after careful
consideration and professional consultation.
5. See also Key Themes. (p.47)
Additional Resources:
Preservation Brief #1: Assessing Cleaning and Water-Repellent Treatments for Historic
Masonry Buildings
Preservation Brief #2: Re-pointing Mortar Joints in Historic Masonry Buildings
Preservation Brief #6: Dangers of Abrasive Cleaning to Historic Buildings
Preservation Brief #7: The Preservation of Historic Glazed Terra-cotta
Preservation Brief #38: Removing Graiffti from Historic Masonry
Rubble
Cut (Ashlar)
50 Historic Structures
Themes: Identify Retain Preserve
Wood Exteriors
Aside from being used as structural elements in the form of a log or frame walls in dwellings,
wood is also the most common exterior wall treatment of historic buildings. Cornices, brackets,
entablatures, shutters, columns, window architraves, doorway pediments and balustrades are
just some of the wood exterior character deflning features. The types of wood siding over the
different structural bases in the County includes drop siding, clapboard, shingle, v-groove and
more. The material thickness and reveal should also be considered for sidings.
Guidelines
1. Removal of exterior siding on a log structure for maintenance should be minimized and log
structures which were previously sided should be resided with an appropriate siding to
avoid deterioration.
2. Remove paint only when there is surface deterioration and inspect painted surfaces
regularly to ensure wood or paint is not damaged.
3. Remove paint only to the next sound layer using the gentlest means possible and do not
leave surfaces exposed. Properly prepare painted surfaces to receive a new coat of paint
that is compatible.
4. Repair minor deterioration using an appropriate wood consolidant. If the deterioration is
severe, replace only the affected areas with wood that matches the original in size and
proflle.
5. See also Key Themes. (p. 47)
Additional Resources:
Preservation Brief #8 - Aluminum and Vinyl Siding on Historic Buildings: The Appropriateness
of Substitute Materials for Resurfacing Historic Wood Frame Buildings
Preservation Brief #10 – Exterior Paint Problems on Historic Woodwork
Preservation Brief #26 - The Preservation and Repair of Historic Log Buildings
1. V-Groove
2. Clapboard
3. Drop
4. Board and Batten
5. Shingle
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Entrances
The variation in architectural styles in the County, within both commercial and residential
buildings, means there is an equal variety of entrances and entrance locations on the facades.
Entrances are often the focal point of the primary façade on a building and the location of that
entrance is key to a building’s character. Some historic homes originally housing a single
family, may also have 2 entrances on the primary façade. This double entrance has led to some
of these structures to later be converted 2 family dwellings. Aside from the actual door, which
is typically of wood or metal construction, the entrance to a structure has many other
components which are equally important. Surrounds, frames, sills, transoms, fanlights and
sidelights of doors are all key elements of an entrance.
Guidelines
1. It is not recommended that secondary facades have entrance changes in size, shape or
location which detract or confuse the primary entrance of the structure.
2. If a new opening is required, it should be on a secondary façade and not visible from the
public right of way.
3. Weatherstripping and caulking to improve energy eiffciency are acceptable.
4. Screen doors are usually appropriate on residential and sometimes appropriate on
commercial buildings. On primary façades, screen doors should be constructed of wood or
a material that is appropriate for the building and should not detract or fully cover the entry
door. Secondary facades may have metal screen/storm doors but use of careful installation
should ensure minimized damage to the opening.
5. See also Key Themes. (p.47)
St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, WA-III-012
52 Historic Structures
Themes: Identify Retain Preserve
Windows
While windows can be decorative focal points in the exterior of historic structures, a majority
serve additional functional purposes. Windows provide a source of light to building interiors as
well as a method of ventilation. These openings weigh heavily into the design principles
discussed earlier and changes to the conflguration of windows individually or within the façade
can drastically affect the integrity of the historic structure. Typical window casing and sash
materials include either wood or metal. The shape of the windows varies across the many
architectural styles represented in the County and the function of the window or building.
Residential structures typically have wood windows and commercial structures may have either
metal or wood windows.
The portion of a window that is most noticeable is often the sash. This includes the frame, any
muntins and the variable glazing (glass) conflguration. Windows can have flxed, double or
single hung, or casement functionality to the sashes to name a few. Often when describing
historic windows, they are referred to by the number of panes in each portion of the sash. For
example a window may be six over six double hung. This means there are 6 individual panes of
glass separated by muntins, or other material, in both the upper sash and lower sash. It also
means that both sashes can be opened independently. Historically the technique for glass
making only allowed for smaller pieces of glass which were very expensive or highly taxed. If a
historic wood window includes a larger number of smaller glass panes this could be an
indication that the window is older than a window with a lower number of panes. Likewise
some older vernacular structures may have smaller window openings allowing for less cost in
glazing.
Aside from the openings themselves, there can be associated elements such as shutters,
awnings or storm windows. Shutters would be functional, providing privacy, protection from
light and airfiow. They often have associated hardware, such as shutter dogs, which are both
integral to function as well as being a decorative element. Storm windows and screens may
exist as part of the design of a historic structure depending on the age, use and architectural
style of the building.
Guidelines
1. Preserve the position, number and arrangement of historic windows in a building wall.
2. Openings should not be resized or enclosed on primary facades.
3. Wood windows on primary facades should not be replaced with windows constructed of
alternative materials such as metal or vinyl. When replacing windows on a secondary
Fixed Pane
Single Hung
Double Hung
Casement
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façade, the HDC should be consulted to
determine the appropriate design and
material of the replacements.
4. 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 façade in which it
is located.
5. Shutters and their hardware should not
be replaced with new materials. They
should be sized to appear to cover the
window if closed whether operational or
not.
6. Existing or replacement storm windows
and screens should match as closely as
possible the historic windows in size,
proflles of sash and frame, color, and
other character-deflning features. In cases
where exterior storm windows were not
used historically, then interior storm
windows may be considered. Clear glass
should be used for glazing all storm
windows.
7. See also Key Themes. (p.47)
Additional Resources
Preservation Brief #9: The Repair of Historic
Wooden Windows
Preservation Brief #13: The Repair and
Thermal Upgrading of Historic Steel
Windows
1.Glazing
2.Muntin
3.Sash
4.Sill
5.Stile
6.Rail
7.Trim
8.Jamb
9.Apron/Trim
10. Lintel and Keystone
11. Shutter
12. Shutter Dog
54 Historic Structures
Themes: Identify Retain Preserve
Roofs
A structure’s roof is one of the principal components of construction and also design. A roof
can be considered a system comprised of framing, rooflng material, fiashing, and drainage
components such as gutters and downspouts. The roof shape is a deflning characteristic and
typically falls into one of 3 categories: gabled, hipped or fiat. The roof shape is then further
delineated by its slope which can be low (less than 30 degrees) or steep (greater than 45
degrees). Architectural styles often have pronounced differences in the roof shape and pitch
and can have their own subtype of roof such as the Mansart roof for a Second Empire building.
Framing of the roof is typically wood construction and can vary in conflguration based on the
roof shape.
Rooflng materials provide more than just a watertight covering. They add color and texture to
a roof which over time can become character deflning features. There are 4 main material
types found in rooflng throughout the County: organic material such as wood shingles,
mineral, such as slate/stone and tile, metals such as sheeting or corrugated paneling, and tar/
asphalt.
The junction of where the roof meets the wall may have some deflning architectural features as
well, including cornice, eaves, decorative brackets, fascia details, bargeboards and more.
Roofs may be interrupted by dormers or chimneys whose material and shape can vary based
on age of the structure and the architectural style. Features such as weather vanes, cupolas,
cresting, parapets, balustrades, flnials and many other style speciflc details occur on roofs and
contribute to the architectural style of the structures.
Gutters and downspouts are common but were not always used historically. For many
structures they are essential to ensure a lasting roof and foundation. Gutter shape, typically half
-round, and material, typically steel or copper, are more typical and appropriate on Pre 1950’s
structures. The downspouts of a similar material and rounded shape are also more appropriate
for those eras. Modern gutter designs such as the K-style gutter can be detrimental both in
function and the way they are attached to historic structures, which were not designed with
that shape in mind. Ribbed downspouts often placed in conjunction with K-Style gutter are
more appropriate and predominate on Post 1950’s architecture.
All components of the roof should be regularly inspected to ensure a functional system.
Gabled
Hipped
Gambrel
Mansard
Flat
Shed
Design Guidelines 55
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Guidelines
1. Avoid altering the roof pitch and shape.
2. Exposed roof rafters and soiffts should not be cut back.
3. The size, color, refiectivity, reveal and material of rooflng and fiashing should be maintained
through repair; and, if replacement is necessary, rooflng materials should have similar
characteristics.
4. Missing or severely damaged towers, dormers, flnials, cresting, chimneys and other
character-deflning roof elements should be replaced based on documentary or
photographic evidence. If no evidence of the appearance of the element exists, a new
element should be designed to be compatible with the overall character of the building.
5. New skylights, mechanical and service-related equipment or pipes, chimneys or other
projections, including solar panels should be located so that they are not visible from a
public right-of-way. If able, roof mounting of mechanical equipment and solar panels
should be avoided. If ground mounted these systems should still not be visible from the
public right of way.
6. Existing dormers should not be resized or have architectural features diminished.
7. See also Key Themes. (p.47)
Additional Resources
Preservation Brief #4 – Rooflng for Historic Buildings
Preservation Brief #19 - The Repair and Replacement of Historic Wooden Shingle Roofs
Preservation Brief #29 - The Repair, Replacement, and Maintenance of Historic Slate Roofs
Preservation Brief #30 - The Preservation and Repair of Historic Clay Tile Roofs
56 Historic Structures
Themes: Identify Retain Preserve
Porches
Aside from their aesthetics across the many architectural styles, porches also offer several
functional beneflts to a historic structure and its occupants. Porches serve as extensions to
living spaces, protection of the entrance from weather and shade for windows to allow cooling
of the structure. The location of porches can be on any façade of the building and typically are
covered with a roof. They may exist only in the area directly around the entrance or extend the
entire length of a façade, at times wrapping around to secondary facades, depending on the
architectural style of the home. Those along a primary façade may be more elaborate in their
character deflning details. Two story porches occur frequently along the secondary façades
with a few examples along primary facades mainly in municipalities. Porches in the county are
typically constructed of wood with structural systems of brick or stone. Porches can be original
to the structure or have been added later and still have equal importance to the character of
the building. The design principles discussed earlier, such as scale, weigh heavily into the
construction of the porch and its deflning features. Aside from those elements, the other
character deflning features of a porch can include, structural components of the deck and roof,
roof railing, balustrade, entablature, decking, steps, columns.
Porches should be regularly cleaned of debris, such as leaves, that can cause water to sit
against the surface and cause decay. Also when using the horizontal space of a porch for
decorative displays or storage, be sure that the surface has airfiow to avoid condensation or
water sitting on the wood surfaces.
Guidelines
1. Porch support structures should be inspected regularly to ensure they are not sagging,
crumbling or disconnected from the structure or the rest of the porch. If necessary,
stabilization and repair should be undertaken to ensure the rest of the structure remains
intact.
2. Installation of carpet can trap water on wood porches causing decay of painted surfaces or
rot of wood and they should be avoided.
3. Avoid enclosing a porch. If the porch is not visible from a public-right-of-way, it may be
enclosed if done in a manner that does not signiflcantly alter the original character of the
porch.
4. See also the Wood Exteriors (p.50) for more guidelines and the Key Themes (p.47)
Additional Resources
Preservation Brief #45 – Preserving Historic Wooden Porches
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Brick Farmstead, Yavener, WA-III-020
Photo Credit: Lloyd Yavener
Main St., Rohrersville, WA-III-143
Early 20th Century Farmhouse, WA-II-410
58 Historic Structures
Themes: Identify Retain Preserve
Additions to Historic Buildings
When a proposed new use of a historic building cannot be fully met by altering the existing
interior space, an addition to a historic building may be required. Additions must carefully
consider the previously discussed design principles of Massing, Scale, Proportion and Rhythm
involved with the existing historic building and/or its historic landscape. In regards to these
principles, the addition’s impact on the historic building itself, the adjacent contributing
properties or buildings and, if applicable, the impact on the historic landscape will all be
considerations during review.
Guidelines
1. Damage to the original structure and/or obstruction of its character deflning features by an
addition should be minimized.
2. Additions should be designed in a way that new construction is differentiated from the
existing historic building but should respect the design and character deflning features of
the existing historic structure. Additions should also be sited to avoid demolition of
contributing structures.
3. New additions should be located on a non primary façade with minimal visibility from the
public right of way and should be subordinate to the historic structure.
4. The roof shape of an addition should be compatible with that of the historic building to
which it is attached.
5. Existing setbacks, landscaping or site grading should be preserved when siting an addition
if those characteristics contribute to the historic building or its landscape.
6. Rooftop additions should generally be avoided on buildings less than 3 stories and should
be minimally visible from the streetscape by being setback from the primary elevation.
Rooftop additions of more than one story should be avoided where feasible.
7. The addition of dormers to historic structures should only occur on secondary facades and
not be visible from the public right of way when feasible. The dormer addition should be
subordinate to the existing roof form.
8. See also Archaeological Resources—Setting and Site (p.43) and Key Themes. (p.47)
Additional Resources
Section 5D.5 – Architectural Review – Washington County Zoning Ordinance
Preservation Brief #14 – New Exterior Additions to Historic Buildings: Preservation Concerns
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New Construction and Accessory Buildings
In some cases, it may be appropriate for new construction adjacent to an existing historic
structure or within a historic landscape such as a Historic Rural Village. New construction must
carefully consider the previously discussed design principles of Massing, Scale, Proportion and
Rhythm involved between it and existing historic buildings or landscapes. In regard to these
principles, the new construction’s impact on the adjacent contributing properties or buildings
and the impact on the historic landscape will all be considerations during review. The new
construction should enhance or aid in the protection, preservation and public/private
utilization of the property. The Zoning Ordinance states “the Commission shall be lenient in its
judgement of plans involving new construction, unless such plans would seriously impair the
historic or architectural value of surrounding structures or the surrounding area. (Washington
County, Maryland, 2021)” Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties documentation for
properties and landscapes in review areas will be consulted to ensure new construction and
accessory buildings are compatible.
Guidelines
1. New construction should be sited to avoid demolition of contributing structures.
2. The design of new construction or new accessory buildings should be compatible with the
form, height, scale, proportions, materials and details of the adjacent contributing
structures or landscapes.
3. Consideration of the ratio of built versus open space of the site or the adjacent landscape
should be given.
4. Existing setbacks, landscaping or site grading of adjacent historic resources should be
preserved when siting new construction if those characteristics contribute to the historic site
or its landscape. This includes circulation routes, fences, walls, and yards, etc.
5. Locate new construction and new accessory buildings so that the existing signiflcant visual
and special characteristics of the property are maintained.
6. Locate new construction and new accessory buildings so that signiflcant viewsheds are
maintained or enhanced.
7. See also Key Themes. (p. 47)
60 Historic Structures
Themes: Identify Retain Preserve
Site and Building Lights
Found on both commercial and residential sites and buildings, historic exterior lighting flxtures
can vary greatly in the County. Some flxtures can be found attached to the structure, while
others may be freestanding poles or site lights. While lighting is regulated in the County’s
Zoning Ordinance in Division X Section 22, this regulation should not be interpreted to mean
flxtures contributing to the historic character of the building cannot be retained or repurposed.
In cases where new lighting is proposed in areas of Commission review, the lighting
regulations as well as the character of lighting in the site or historic landscape will be
considered.
Guidelines
1. Limit the level of illumination to be suiffcient to perform the needed lighting task or
ordinance requirements.
2. If additional lighting is needed, supplemental lighting, rather than removal of the original
flxture is recommended and that lighting should be subordinate to the historic lighting in
placement, scale, design and illumination.
3. Meeting glare and illumination requirements from the Zoning Ordinance should be
attempted by adapting the historic lighting flxture while maintaining its original appearance
where feasible.
4. Do not install site lighting that conveys a false sense of history, such as faux historic street
lights.
5. If new light flxtures are necessary, use a contemporary design or simplifled historic lighting
design that is compatible with placement, design, materials, and quality of lighting on
adjacent historic buildings.
6. Scale new site lighting flxtures to the building and to be subordinate to adjacent historic
structures.
7. Use low, shielded, flxtures with down-lighting, or light bollards within landscaping to
illuminate pedestrian walkways if needed.
8. Do not provide greater illumination in parking areas than at building entrances or for
pedestrian walkways.
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9. Do not use site lighting that is brighter than historic building lighting.
10. Locate and install light flxtures so they may be removed without signiflcant damage to
historic building fabric. For example, on masonry, attach to the flxture in masonry joints.
11. Do not install lighting conduits, junction boxes and wires on primary building façades.
12. See also Key Themes. (p. 47)
Rose Hill Entrance, WA-I-374
Photo Credit: WCHT
Street Lighting in Williamsport, WA-WIL-025
& WA-WIL-026
Beard’s Church, WA-I-056
Robert Claggett Farm, WA-III-036
Photo Credit: WCHT
Williamsport Town Hall, WA-WIL-018
62 Historic Structures
Themes: Identify Retain Preserve
Signs
The HDC reviews prospective new signs that require a permit within the Antietam Overlay
(AO1 or AO2) leading into and out of Sharpsburg. The setting and site of the Town of
Sharpsburg as well as the adjacent Antietam National Battlefleld are protected by this
additional review of the signage. Once a sign permit is applied for, the Commission will
consider the sign shape, size, positioning, colors, materials, size, illumination, and lettering
following key concepts of the architectural review outlined in Section 5D.5 Architectural
Review of the Zoning Ordinance. It is important to note that the review by the Commission is in
addition to the requirements for signs under Division II – Signs and Division X – Lighting of the
Zoning Ordinance. The guidelines for signs may also apply to properties which have the
Historic Preservation Overlay or are within a Historic Rural Village. For all other properties
which may be older than 50 years and contain or propose a sign, these guidelines can be a
helpful resource.
“Signs are everywhere. And everywhere they play an important role in human activity.” (US
National Park Service, 2021) In the County, signs serve many purposes but the main purpose is
to identify the historic site or the business within it. Other signs that can be historic or provide
historic context in the County include billboards, murals, historical markers, waypoints, barn
advertisements, etc. In some cases, signs are attached to the buildings, painted directly onto
the building or they are freestanding. Regardless, they convey information about the current or
past history and provide context to the site or district. In many cases, the placement or
relationship of signs can contribute to the streetscape of a historic landscape. Signs can be
both symbolic or object based in nature as well as text based historically. Many times
commercial buildings include a hierarchy of signage rather than a singular sign. This hierarchy
includes primary signage which is typically the main business name, secondary signage which
may convey additional information about a business and be subordinate in size to the primary
signage, and flnally, iconic signage which is again subordinate to the primary signage but
creates visual interest at a pedestrian level. Iconic signage is often three dimensional and
projecting. All levels of this hierarchy would be reviewed by the Commission.
Most commonly, signs were constructed of wood. Pre 19th century signs were commonly fiat
signs conveying information through symbols or lettering. If the signs were hanging or
projecting, this often included a wrought iron bracket. Signs could also be shaped in many
ways including rectangular, plaques, shields or ovals to name a few. The shape would be
dependent on where and how the sign was attached. Other sign materials including brass, tin,
cast iron, steel and enamel were available in the late 19th century as well as the use of awnings
for sign placement. In the 20th century the prevalence of electricity heralded new innovations
Design Guidelines 63
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in the signage of properties. This additional power meant that lighting and even movement
within the signs became more prevalent. Neon gas was also frequently used in the 20th
century allowing use of color, light, and shapes combined for signs.
Equally as important as the material of the sign is the lettering used. Lettering typically falls into
3 main categories in signage: Serif, Non-Serif and Script. A serif in typography is a small line or
stroke regularly attached to the end of larger stroke in a letter. Examples of typefaces that
contain Serifs would be Times New Roman, Garamond and Georgia. Non-Serif or Sans Serif
simply means the letters do not have that extra stroke. Examples of these typefaces would be
Arial, Calibri or Helvetica. Script typefaces are extremely varied in their elaborateness and most
closely resemble the fiuidity of handwriting. Typically serif typefaces would be seen on signs
until the late 19th century to early 20th century. After that point signs would more commonly
have non-serif or mixed typefaces. After the 1920’s, the use of solely non-serif typeface was
most common. While script lettering may, for some, convey a sense of history, it was rarely
used in signage due to the diiffculty in reading it.
While the Commission does not review the exterior color or paint of historic buildings, the
review of colors or paint does occur for signage. Modern choices for paint are extremely varied
in both composition and color. Oil based paint types are the most common on historic
structures and signs. In order to provide color the paint pigments were often added to a white
lead base pigment. Exterior colors were not as varied until the late 19th century and post Civil
War era when paint became more mass produced and readymade rather than mixed as
needed onsite with pigments. It is important to understand the composition of an existing
painted sign as it can contain many levels of paint over time. The main purpose of a sign, to
convey information, means that colors would typically be contrasting. Dark bases of grays,
blacks, red oxide based browns would be common with contrasting white lettering. Signs
would typically complement a building if attached but may not have matched exterior colors of
the main building. Gold leaf used for lettering or accenting graphic objects was more common
in the 19th century and again, contrasting to the background color.
For the vast majority of signs in the Commissions areas of review, externally illuminated signs
are the most appropriate. Internally lit signs are not appropriate in the Antietam Overlay but
may be appropriate elsewhere in the County based on the sign type and historic setting.
Again, lighting and sign lighting are addressed in the Zoning Ordinance under Division X
which should be consulted prior to permit application.
64 Historic Structures
Themes: Identify Retain Preserve
Guidelines
1. Signs should be sited on or around a historic building so as not to obscure or damage
architectural features or detract from the historic landscape.
2. Signage on or around a historic building should be subordinate to the building’s
architecture and not overpower the building.
3. Signs should coordinate in size, location and placement within the building, with adjacent
buildings or the surrounding historic landscape’s examples.
4. Historic buildings should limit primary and iconic signage to one per business where
feasible with secondary signage used to convey additional information in order to minimize
visual clutter.
5. Primary storefront signs should be mounted fiush on the signboard where feasible and
appropriate.
6. Projecting blade signs should be mounted perpendicular to the façade with ample
clearance for pedestrians and should not be used in conjunction with iconic shaped
projecting signage.
7. Illumination of signs should be external. Internally lit signs are not appropriate for most
historic areas under Commission review including the Antietam Overlay, Historic
Preservation Overlay, and the Historic Rural Villages.
8. Secondary signage including window signs should be subordinate to primary signage and
should take up 20 percent or less of each windows area.
9. Awning signage should have lettering limited to the awning face when feasible and that
lettering should be incidental in appearance.
10. The colors used on a sign should be complimentary to the building and historic landscape
and appropriate to the historic context.
11. Limit the number of colors used for painting signage to the least amount possible.
12. Lettering of signs should be appropriate to the size of the sign. The lettering style should
attempt to be correct to the period of the building or the business type.
13. Signs should not appear out of scale with the building to which they are attached or are
positioned near. They should not overpower adjacent structures or monopolize the
streetscape.
Design Guidelines 65
Protect Maintain Repair Replace
14. Primary signage should be shaped simply with rectangular signage being appropriate for
most applications. Secondary and iconic signage may vary more in shape and composition.
15. Signs should be crafted using high quality materials and flnishes that complement the
durable materials found on historic buildings.
16. Maintain existing historic signs where feasible or integrate them into the adaptive reuse
design.
17. Preserve historic painted wall signs by leaving them exposed and unrestored unless
severely deteriorated to avoid confusion over the age of the building or sign.
18. Use ground mounted signs for rural businesses that fall within review areas. Signs should
follow Site and Building Lighting guidelines as well as other listed Sign guidelines and
should be scaled dependent to the structure size and adjacent historic landscape.
19. See also Key Themes. (p. 47)
Additional Resources
Preservation Brief #25 – The Preservation of Historic Signs
Division II – Signs – Zoning Ordinance
Division X – Lighting – Zoning Ordinance
See also Design Guidelines “Site and Building Lighting”
Rufus Wilson Complex, WA-V-074
Cushwa Coal Building, Williamsport, WA-WIL-033
Kretzer’s Market/Nutter’s, WA-II-542
66 Historic Structures
Themes: Identify Retain Preserve
Solar and Other New Technologies for
Environmental Sustainability
The Historic District Commission will review permits and site plans for the installation of solar
on individual resources as well as the review of SEGS or solar energy generating systems which
may affect the historic character of a resource or the historic landscape. Green roofs and wind
turbines may also be applied for and require Commission review. The Commission
encourages the protection of the historic landscape and structure while reducing the visual
impacts of solar panels and other new technologies from public rights-of-way. Guiding the
Commission in their review is the SOI Standards 2, 5, 8, 9 and 10 as listed earlier in this
document.
Solar (Montgomery County Maryland, 2021)
There are different types of solar that may be reviewed including roof mounted or freestanding
solar systems. The use of solar on sites in order of preference (most to least preferred) are as
follows:
1. Freestanding Solar arrays – These are generally placed away from a historic building and
often pole mounted. They allow for minimal impact to the historic resource when sited
appropriately. Archaeological investigations may be necessary depending on the history of
the site.
2. Roof Mounted Solar Systems on Accessory Structures or non-contributing buildings –
Again, this method minimizes impact to the primary historic resource by locating solar away
from the main resource.
3. Roof Mounted Solar Systems on Non-Historic Additions of the Main dwelling or building –
In this instance, the systems should be located on secondary elevations to minimize
visibility from the public right of way.
4. Roof Mounted Solar Systems on Historic buildings – If all other options are not feasible the
owner can consider this location. Primary elevations visible from the public right of way
should still be avoided. Buildings which have character deflning roof shapes or materials
are highly encouraged to explore the other preferrable locations to preserve the character
of the structure.
Design Guidelines 67
Protect Maintain Repair Replace
Installation Guidance
Freestanding Solar Systems should:
1. Be screened from the public right-of-way to the greatest extent possible.
2. Have a suitable scale for the district and the setting.
Traditional Roof Mounted Solar Panels Should:
1. Have a low-proflle.
2. Be mounted less than or equal to six inches above the surface of the roof (to the face of the
panel).
3. Be consistent with the existing slope of the supporting roof.
4. Setback solar panels from the edges and ridge of the roof.
5. Place any conduits for connections to electrical meters on the inside of the building or on a
secondary elevation.
6. Locate conduits, inverters, storage units, or other hardware associated with the panels on
the interior or on secondary elevations with limited visibility from the public rights-of-way.
7. Blend with the surrounding features of the historic resource with respect to color of the
panel, support racks, and conduits.
8. Be arranged in an organized conflguration and avoid disjointed and multi-roof solutions.
This may require the relocation of modern vents, pipes, etc.
Additional Resources
Installing Solar Panels and Meeting the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards (National Park
Service, Technical Preservation Services)
Montgomery County Historic Preservation Commission Policy Guidance #20-01: Solar
Technology
68 Historic Structures
Themes: Identify Retain Preserve
Green Roofs
Green roofs are layers of vegetation planted over a waterprooflng system that is installed on a
fiat or slightly sloped roof. There are 3 main categories of green roofs including: extensive,
intensive and semi-intensive. These have varying levels of plant and support materials involved
and thus require different structural loads to function. Green roofs should not have visual,
physical impacts on the building’s historic character. When proposed on existing historic
structures, the Commission will review current guidance of the National Park Service.
Additional Resources
Green Roofs – (National Park Service, Technical Preservation Services)
Wind Turbines
While wind mills may be found in the rural landscape of the County more modern wind
turbines are less prevalent. Current guidance from the SOI recommends planning for the
introduction of small wind turbines to follow guidelines for new construction. If a more
industrial scale project is proposed the Commission will review its impacts on the site and
cultural landscape as appropriate.
Additional Resources
National Park Service - Guidelines for the Treatment of Cultural Landscapes
Washington County Design Guidelines – New Construction and Accessory Buildings
Design Guidelines 69
Protect Maintain Repair Replace
Hazard Mitigation—Flooding, Storms or Fire
The Commission highly encourages property owners to take photographs of their structure to
establish a baseline documentation as well as to take pictures anytime major work is
completed. This includes both the interior and exterior photos of work to the structure. To
mitigate risks of fiooding and flre, the Commission also recommends regular building
maintenance and ensuring adequate coverage for insurance on the structure and any work
being completed.
The County does have historic resources which may be affected by fioodplain activity and
storm events. The Commission encourages property owners who have questions regarding
fiooding or a property’s susceptibility to fiooding to contact the Historic District Commission
staff. Included below are additional resources which may be helpful for property speciflc to
mitigation of fiooding.
Additional Resources
Washington County Historic Resources Map (Floodplain included)
Preservation Brief #35 – Understanding Old Buildings: The Process of Architectural
Investigation
Preservation Brief #43: The Preparation and Use of Historic Structure Reports
Preservation Brief #50: Lightning Protection for Historic Structures
SOI Guidelines on Flood Adaptation for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings - 2021
National Park Service SOI - Guidelines on Flood Adaptation for Rehabilitating Historic
Buildings Video
Maryland Historic Trust – Flood Mitigation Guide (June 2018)
FEMA 386-6 - Integrating Historic Property and Cultural Resource Considerations Into Hazard
Mitigation Planning State and Local Mitigation Planning How-To Guide (May 2005)
70 Historic Structures
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Design Guidelines 71
Antietam
Bakersville
Brownsville
Cavetown
Downsville
Fairplay
Gapland
Highfleld
Leitersburg
Mount Lena
Pen Mar
Ringgold
Rohrersville
Sandy Hook
Tilghmanton
Furnace, Antietam Ironworks, WA-II-031
Rural Villages Inventory
72 Historic Structures
Antietam Historic Rural Village
The Antietam Village Historic District is signiflcant as the site of substantial iron-working
enterprise which spanned the period from the colonial years through much of the 19th
century. Although company records from the various Antietam Corporations have never been
found, numerous references to the Antietam works exist in general local and regional history
books, in histories of iron in the colonies, and in some primary documents from the
Revolutionary period. With reference to the Revolutionary War era, the district was home to
one of the operations conducted by the Hughes Bros., who were major suppliers of weaponry
to the Continental forces. In addition to the signiflcance of the district for its industrial
associations, the Antietam Village Historic District is also signiflcant as a rural western Maryland
village containing vernacular architecture dating from the late eighteenth century into the early
years of the twentieth century.
- Description excerpted from Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties’ File
HDC ACTIONS IN THIS RURAL VILLAGE
CONTRIBUTING STRUCTURES Approval/Denial
NEW CONSTRUCTION Recommendations
INDIVIDUAL LISTINGS Recommendations
DEMOLITION Recommendations
Design Guidelines 73
Inventory Number
II-031, II-032, II-033
National Register
Yes
Contributing Structures
27/30
Survey Status
Adopted 2005
Period of Significance
1763-1930
Significance
Architecture and Industry
Maryland Historical Trust Antietam File
74 Historic Structures
Bakersville Historic Rural Village
Bakersville represents the type of small cross roads, rural postal village that developed in
Washington County in the second quarter of the 19th century, to meet the needs of area farm
families. It is named for Elias Baker, Sr. (1785-1863) who was Bakersville's flrst postmaster and
the owner of the store around which the tiny hamlet developed. Its small collection of
buildings include two interesting antebellum vernacular buildings, as well as a church and
three postbellum houses whose designs were inspired by nationally popular building styles.
- Description excerpted from Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties’ File
HDC ACTIONS IN THIS RURAL VILLAGE
CONTRIBUTING STRUCTURES Recommendations
NEW CONSTRUCTION No Actions
INDIVIDUAL LISTINGS Recommendations
DEMOLITION Recommendations
Design Guidelines 75
Inventory Number
II-276
National Register
No
Contributing Structures
6/8
Survey Status
Completed 2010
Period of Significance
1823-1900
Significance
Architecture, Commerce, and Exploration/
Settlement
Maryland Historical Trust Bakersville File
76 Historic Structures
Brownsville Historic Rural Village
The Brownsville Historic District is historically signiflcant for its association with early settlement
and community development in Washington County. First settled in the late-18th century and
established as a postal village in 1833, the community grew up around the tannery established
by John Brown (1792-1888) in the 1830s. By the second half of the 19th century Brownsville
had developed into a small but locally important market and manufacturing center. The
community is typical of the myriad of towns and villages that emerged in Washington County
and elsewhere in response to improved transportation networks. Brownsville's initial
development coincides with the opening of the nearby Chesapeake & Ohio Canal in the
1830s and its later expansion followed the extension of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad to
Brownsville in 1867. The Brownsville Historic District also achieves signiflcance for its
architecture. The town's collection of 19th- and early 20th-century architectural resources
nicely illustrates the transition away from regional vernacular building traditions at the turn of
the 20th century in favor of nationally popular building.
- Description excerpted from Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties’ File
HDC ACTIONS IN THIS RURAL VILLAGE
CONTRIBUTING STRUCTURES Recommendations
NEW CONSTRUCTION No Actions
INDIVIDUAL LISTINGS Recommendations
DEMOLITION Recommendations
Design Guidelines 77
Inventory Number
III-009
National Register
No
Contributing Structures
24/28
Survey Status
Completed 2010
Period of Significance
1824-1925
Significance
Architecture, Commerce, Settlement, Military
and Transportation
Maryland Historical Trust Brownsville File
78 Historic Structures
Cavetown Historic Rural Village
The Cavetown Historic District is signiflcant under National Register Criterion C for
architecture, containing a contiguous collection of locally-signiflcant properties whose designs
refiect many of the popular modes prevalent in western Maryland from the 1820s through the
1930s. The Cavetown Historic District's properties refiect primarily vernacular design in the
rural reaches of western Maryland throughout the Period of Signiflcance, which begins c. 1820,
spans the dates of construction of the district's earliest extant buildings, and ends c. 1950, the
approximate date of construction of the latest of the district's historic resources. With respect
to Criterion C, the district contains locally-distinctive examples of vernacular architecture which,
although executed without reference to formal design tenets, nonetheless represent the
manifestation of local building traditions in this section of Washington County. The district also
contains a limited number of examples of formal styles including the Federal and Gothic
Revival. The Cavetown Historic District clearly retains its historic rural character along with the
physical integrity necessary to refiect its appearance during its Period of Signiflcance.
- Description excerpted from Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties’ File
HDC ACTIONS IN THIS RURAL VILLAGE
CONTRIBUTING STRUCTURES Approval/Denial
NEW CONSTRUCTION Recommendations
INDIVIDUAL LISTINGS Recommendations
DEMOLITION Recommendations
Design Guidelines 79
Inventory Number
IV-014
National Register
No
Contributing Structures
59/69
Survey Status
Adopted 2005
Period of Significance
1820-1950
Significance
Architecture
Maryland Historical Trust Cavetown File
80 Historic Structures
Downsville Historic Rural Village
The village of Downsville is signiflcant locally and potentially eligible under National Register
Criterion A as an example of 19th century rural community development in Washington
County, Maryland. Downsville began developing in the mid-19th century at a crossing of two
old roads. Both roads led to important towns in Washington County, one to the county seat of
Hagerstown and the other to Williamsport on the Potomac River. After 1835, Williamsport
became a major C&O Canal depot and the south end of the old road to Hagerstown
terminated at the C&O Canal Dam #4. As traiffc along the roads increased, the small village
developed around the Charles Downs' store, eventually including two churches, a school, and
a growing number of shops and residences. The village remained relatively unchanged into
the middle of the 20th century, with the exception of the addition of automobile related
commercial buildings and some modem domestic inflll.
- Description excerpted from Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties’ File
HDC ACTIONS IN THIS RURAL VILLAGE
CONTRIBUTING STRUCTURES Recommendations
NEW CONSTRUCTION No Actions
INDIVIDUAL LISTINGS Recommendations
DEMOLITION Recommendations
Design Guidelines 81
Inventory Number
II-273
National Register
No
Contributing Structures
36/42
Survey Status
Completed 2008
Period of Significance
1852-1958
Significance
Community Planning and Development,
Transportation and Military
Maryland Historical Trust Downsville File
82 Historic Structures
Fairplay Historic Rural Village
The Fairplay Historic District is signiflcant under National Register Criterion C, for architecture,
as a small, rural, western Maryland hamlet containing a locally-signiflcant collection of
generally residential architecture built between c. 1830 and 1900. The buildings within the
district represent a variety of traditional and formal design styles. Some are of log construction,
which is itself a signiflcant design characteristic, while others represent mid- to late– 19th
century vernacular residential design; a small number of buildings in the district refiect formal
architectural antecedents. The settlement of Fairplay is located within Washington County
Election District 12, at the junction of three rural roadways, and it developed due to the its
location at this intersection. Spielman Road enters the district from the west and leads
eastward out of the district to intersect with the Sharpsburg Pike at the Tilghmanton
settlement, about two miles distant.
- Description excerpted from Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties’ File
HDC ACTIONS IN THIS RURAL VILLAGE
CONTRIBUTING STRUCTURES Approval/Denial
NEW CONSTRUCTION Recommendations
INDIVIDUAL LISTINGS Recommendations
DEMOLITION Recommendations
Design Guidelines 83
Inventory Number
II-277
National Register
No
Contributing Structures
22/26
Survey Status
Adopted 2005
Period of Significance
1830-1900
Significance
Architecture
Maryland Historical Trust Fairplay File
84 Historic Structures
Gapland Historic Rural Village
Gapland is an important example of a turn-of-the century railroad town in the Pleasant Valley
region of Washington County, Maryland. When the Washington County Railroad was at its
peak, the town also experienced growth and economic stability. The Baltimore & Ohio
Railroad brought people, jobs, and material goods to Gapland and allowed the rural farming
community to develop an identity as a town. Gapland's growth in the early 20th century is
refiected in the concentration of popular turn-of-the century architectural forms expressed in
the houses along Gapland Road. While the Gapland Station (a.k.a. Clagett's Station) building is
no longer standing, evidence of the rail line and its impact on the town remain. As the
popularity of rail travel declined, so did the town of Gapland. Even with the growth of
automobile transit, Gapland has remained a small, but important rural village.
- Description excerpted from Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties’ File
HDC ACTIONS IN THIS RURAL VILLAGE
CONTRIBUTING STRUCTURES Recommendations
NEW CONSTRUCTION No Actions
INDIVIDUAL LISTINGS Recommendations
DEMOLITION Recommendations
Design Guidelines 85
Inventory Number
III-039
National Register
No
Contributing Structures
33/60
Survey Status
Completed 2010
Period of Significance
1800-1940
Significance
Architecture, Exploration/Settlement, Social
History and Transportation
Maryland Historical Trust Gapland File
86 Historic Structures
Highfield Historic Rural Village
The Highfleld/Cascade Historic District is of particular signiflcance to Washington County and
to western Maryland as the tangible refiection of technological advance (namely, the
development of the railroad) upon the growth of recreational and leisure activities, evidenced
in the predominating character of the documented area as a resort community. The Period of
Signiflcance for the district begins c. 1890 and ends c. 1940, dates which span the
approximate dates of construction of the area's historic resources and encompass the
formative years of popularity of the area as a summer resort. The district consists of small and
medium-scale domestic architecture executed in several of the architectural styles popular
during the Period of Signiflcance, including Queen Anne, Colonial Revival, Dutch Colonial
Revival, and Bungalow.
- Description excerpted from Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties’ File
HDC ACTIONS IN THIS RURAL VILLAGE
CONTRIBUTING STRUCTURES Approval/Denial
NEW CONSTRUCTION Recommendations
INDIVIDUAL LISTINGS Recommendations
DEMOLITION Recommendations
Design Guidelines 87
Inventory Number
IV-057
National Register
No
Contributing Structures
60/60
Survey Status
Adopted 2005
Period of Significance
1890-1940
Significance
Architecture
Maryland Historical Trust Highfleld File
88 Historic Structures
Leitersburg Historic Rural Village
The Leitersburg Historic District is signiflcant under National Register Criterion A for its
association with the development of commerce and transportation in Washington County and
the surrounding region in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Leitersburg was
founded in 1815 by Andrew Leiter after the 1807 Greencastle-Baltimore Road was constructed
to intersect the Nicholson's Gap Road on his property. The town developed with many hotels
and commercial establishments to serve travelers on the two roads. The town also served as an
exchange point between the many mills and distilleries located on the nearby Antietam Creek.
The village continued to prosper when nine miles of the Nicholson's Gap Road was rebuilt as
the Leitersburg Turnpike in 1847.
The Leitersburg Historic District derives additional signiflcance under National Register
Criterion C as a well-preserved example of a type of crossroads community which
characterized the region in the 19th century, and for its variety of historic architecture.
Leitersburg's town plan, comprising a public square at the intersection of two major
thoroughfares, typifled communities in southern Pennsylvania and adjacent Maryland during
the period. The village comprises a cohesive collection of architectural resources refiecting a
wide variety of vernacular types and popular expressions dating from the early 19th century
through the early 20th century. The majority of early buildings were of log construction.
- Description excerpted from Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties’ File
HDC ACTIONS IN THIS RURAL VILLAGE
CONTRIBUTING STRUCTURES Approval/Denial
NEW CONSTRUCTION Recommendations
INDIVIDUAL LISTINGS Recommendations
DEMOLITION Recommendations
Design Guidelines 89
Inventory Number
I-146
National Register
Yes
Contributing Structures
155/227
Survey Status
Adopted 2005
Period of Significance
1815-1926
Significance
Community Planning & Development,
Architecture, Commerce, and Transportation
Maryland Historical Trust Leitersburg File
90 Historic Structures
Mount Lena Historic Rural Village
Mt. Lena likely had its beginning in the late 18th century when Orr's Tavern was located on the
road at the base of South Mountain. Much of the land on which the village developed was
owned by the Hughes brothers, who operated the nearby Mt. Aetna Iron Furnace, requiring
large amounts of timber land for charcoal. Mt. Lena was a village of laborers, probably
beginning with the furnace and charcoal burners, as well as working at nearby mills and farms.
In the 1880s the road became the Beaver Creek and South Mountain Turnpike and in 1904,
Mt. Lena was made a station stop along the Hagerstown & Myersville Railway, part of an
extended line from Frederick to Hagerstown. U.S. Route 40, started in 1936, put an end to the
railway by 1938, but was not flnished over South Mountain until after WWII, about 1946. With
U.S. Route 40, Mt. Lena became a bypassed roadside village and its growth all but ended. By
1946, the route over South Mountain through Orr's Gap, along which Mt. Lena developed and
was eventually bypassed, had seen at least four incarnations as road, turnpike, highway, and
electric railway.
- Description excerpted from Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties’ File
HDC ACTIONS IN THIS RURAL VILLAGE
CONTRIBUTING STRUCTURES Recommendations
NEW CONSTRUCTION No Actions
INDIVIDUAL LISTINGS Recommendations
DEMOLITION Recommendations
Design Guidelines 91
Inventory Number
II-166
National Register
No
Contributing Structures
42/78
Survey Status
Completed 2008
Period of Significance
1790-1946
Significance
Community Planning and Development and
Transportation
Maryland Historical Trust Mount Lena File
92 Historic Structures
Pen Mar Historic Rural Village
The Pen Mar Historic District has been documented with reference to National Register Criteria
A and C. With reference to Criterion A, the area is signiflcant under entertainment/ recreation,
as a distinctive western Maryland Blue Ridge Mountain summer resort community dating from
the last quarter of the 19th century. The district is particularly signiflcant to the history of
Washington County and western Maryland, since its existence refiects the infiuence of
technological advances upon leisure life throughout the Period of Signiflcance. Under
Criterion C, with respect to architecture, the district derives its signiflcance from its position as
a locally-distinctive collection of summer homes and cottages built between the late
nineteenth century and the flrst third of the twentieth century, generally vernacular in character
and with only a scattering of residences executed in any formal design. The Period of
Signiflcance begins in 1877, when the Western Maryland Railroad began the construction of
the recreational facilities at Pen Mar Park, which is no longer extant and was located across Pen
Mar Road northwest of the district. The Period of Signiflcance ends in 1943, when the railroad
dismantled the remnants of their park and the community settled into its present purely
residential character.
- Description excerpted from Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties’ File
HDC ACTIONS IN THIS RURAL VILLAGE
CONTRIBUTING STRUCTURES Approval/Denial
NEW CONSTRUCTION Recommendations
INDIVIDUAL LISTINGS Recommendations
DEMOLITION Recommendations
Design Guidelines 93
Inventory Number
IV-019
National Register
No
Contributing Structures
53/66
Survey Status
Adopted 2005
Period of Significance
1878-1943
Significance
Architecture and Entertainment/Recreation
Maryland Historical Trust Pen Mar File
94 Historic Structures
Ringgold Historic Rural Village
The Ringgold Historic District is signiflcant under National Register Criterion C for Architecture,
containing a contiguous collection of locally-signiflcant properties which refiect both popular
styles of design prevalent in western Maryland from the 1820s through the 1920s and
vernacular architecture representative of local building traditions in the area. The majority of
properties in the Ringgold Historic District refiect primarily vernacular design in the rural
reaches of western Maryland throughout the Period of Signiflcance, which begins in 1825
when pioneer settler John Creager erected a log house in the area (not extant), spans the
dates of construction of the district's earliest extant buildings, and ends c. 1920, the
approximate date of construction of the latest of the district's historic resources. The district
contains locally-distinctive examples of vernacular architecture which, although executed
without reference to formal design tenets, nonetheless represent the manifestation of local
building traditions in this section of Washington County . The district contains only limited
examples of formal styles including the Federal, Gothic Revival, Italianate, Bungalow, Colonial
Revival, and American Foursquare.
- Description excerpted from Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties’ File
HDC ACTIONS IN THIS RURAL VILLAGE
CONTRIBUTING STRUCTURES Approval/Denial
NEW CONSTRUCTION Recommendations
INDIVIDUAL LISTINGS Recommendations
DEMOLITION Recommendations
Design Guidelines 95
Inventory Number
IV-007
National Register
No
Contributing Structures
42/46
Survey Status
Adopted 2005
Period of Significance
1825-1920
Significance
Architecture
Maryland Historical Trust Ringgold File
96 Historic Structures
Rohrersville Historic Rural Village
Located in southern Washington County, Maryland, Rohrersville was settled in the 1820s and
initially developed in response to Washington County's strong agricultural economy, its
location along an early wagon road and major transportation route, and a marble works
industry. The village's mid-19th century development was infiuenced by the arrival of the
railroad in 1867. By 1920 much of the extant village had been erected. Aside from the loss of
its commercial character and limited alterations to its building stock, Rohrersville retains its mid
-19th to early 20th century architecture that portrays the cultural and historical trends of the
time. Rohrersville is signiflcant as an excellent example of a rural historic village in Washington
County refiective of the prosperity of the surrounding agricultural region and the marble
industry that supported it, and the 18th and 19th century transportation systems that made the
community viable.
- Description excerpted from Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties’ File
HDC ACTIONS IN THIS RURAL VILLAGE
CONTRIBUTING STRUCTURES Approval/Denial
NEW CONSTRUCTION Recommendations
INDIVIDUAL LISTINGS Recommendations
DEMOLITION Recommendations
Design Guidelines 97
Inventory Number
III-025
National Register
No
Contributing Structures
42/42
Survey Status
Adopted 2005
Period of Significance
1815-1930
Significance
Architecture, Economics, Social/Education/
Cultural and Transportation
Maryland Historical Trust Rohrersville File
98 Historic Structures
Sandy Hook Historic Rural Village
The village of Sandy Hook is signiflcant for its association with 19th century transportation
trends as well as for events before and during the Civil War. As a rural village along a major
transportation corridor, Sandy Hook is not as large and prosperous as other towns adjacent to
the C&O Canal and B&O railroad; however, the village functioned as a necessary part of the
transportation network and maintains its character as a 19th century rural village. The village
was also incidentally involved in major events before and during the Civil War. Sandy Hook
retains integrity of location, setting, feeling and association.
- Description excerpted from Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties’ File
HDC ACTIONS IN THIS RURAL VILLAGE
CONTRIBUTING STRUCTURES Approval/Denial
NEW CONSTRUCTION Recommendations
INDIVIDUAL LISTINGS Recommendations
DEMOLITION Recommendations
Design Guidelines 99
Inventory Number
III-032
National Register
No
Contributing Structures
31/47
Survey Status
Adopted 2005
Period of Significance
1800-1954
Significance
Architecture, Military and Transportation
Maryland Historical Trust Sandy Hook File
100 Historic Structures
Tilghmanton Historic Rural Village
The Tilghmanton Historic District is documented with reference to National Register Criterion
C, for architecture, as a reasonably intact and visually cohesive mid-19th-century rural western
Maryland village. The district contains a grouping of modest vernacular homes refiecting the
traditions and design preferences of working-class settlers along the Hagerstown-Sharpsburg
Pike during the years between c. 1830 and the early years of the twentieth century. Included
within the district's inventory of historic resources are log homes which represent the earliest
settlement architecture of the village, a collection of modest vernacular homes built without
reference to any architectural style, two Federal-style houses, four residences executed in the
Colonial Revival and Dutch Colonial Revived style, one early commercial building representing
the limited and strictly local mercantile life of the hamlet, and one early twentieth-century
schoolhouse. The village of Tilghmanton was named for Col. Frisby (also spelled "Frisbi")
Tilghman (1774-1847), who, as a young man, came to Washington County late in the
eighteenth century from Maryland's eastern shore. Tilghman's own residence, "Rockland" (WA
-II-102), is located approximately one mile north of the settlement which bears his name.
- Description excerpted from Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties’ File
HDC ACTIONS IN THIS RURAL VILLAGE
CONTRIBUTING STRUCTURES Approval/Denial
NEW CONSTRUCTION Recommendations
INDIVIDUAL LISTINGS Recommendations
DEMOLITION Recommendations
Design Guidelines 101
Inventory Number
II-152
National Register
No
Contributing Structures
82/110
Survey Status
Adopted 2005
Period of Significance
1830-1930
Significance
Architecture
Maryland Historical Trust Tilghmanton File
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Middlekauff-Wiles Farm and Cemetery, WA-V-086
Glossary
ii Historic Structures
Accessory Structure
Structures that support the use of the
main building on the same parcel of land.
Adaptive Reuse
Rehabilitation of a historic structure for
use other than its original purpose, such
as a residence converted into an oiffce.
Also called adaptive use.
Addition
A portion of a structure built after the
original structure was completed.
Additions may be historic or non-historic.
Alteration
The act or process which changes one or
more of the exterior architectural features
of a designated structure.
Antietam Overlay
A zoning overlay designed to protect the
view shed of the Red Hill Area and the
approaches to Antietam Battlefleld.
Appropriate
See Compatible/Compatibility
Architrave
The lintel or beam that rests on the
capitals of columns
Articulation
The manner in which various features are
designed and arranged on a building
elevation.
Awning
A secondary covering attached to the
exterior wall of a building, providing
shade and protection from the elements
around doors, windows, and other
openings. May be retractable or
stationary.
Baluster
One of a series of short vertical members
used to support a stair or porch handrail,
forming a balustrade
Balustrade
An entire rail system, with top rail and
balusters.
Bargeboard
A board placed on the verge or incline of
a roof gable end to conceal the rafter end
and provide ornamentation; also called a
vergeboard.
Bay
The portion of a façade between columns
or piers providing regular division of a
facade, usually marked by windows or
doors.
Board and Batten, Siding
A siding and paneling style that uses
narrow strips of wood placed over the
joints of wide boards for a geometric,
layered effect.
Bollard
A short post used to divert traiffc from an
area or road.
Design Guidelines iii
Bracket
A projecting support placed under an
architectural overhang such as a roof
cornice or eave
Brick
A single building unit typically made of
flred or sun-dried clay, used in masonry
construction and laid in courses known as
bonds.
Brick Bond
The pattern in which a bricklayer
articulates the brick and mortar design of
a wall, using the stretcher (the long,
narrow side) and header (the short side)
of the brick.
Casement Window
A window with one or two sashes which
are hinged at the sides and usually open
outward.
Certificate of Appropriateness
A certiflcate issued by the Commission
indicating review and authorization of
plans for alteration, construction,
demolition or relocation of a landmark, or
property, structure, site or object within a
district.
Certified Local Government
The Certifled Local Government program
recognizes counties and municipalities
that have made a special commitment to
preservation. This commitment includes,
but is not limited to, establishing a
qualifled historic preservation
commission to designate and review
historic properties.
Character
The qualities and attributes of any
structure, site, street or district.
Character-Defining Features
Speciflc features of a structure, site, street,
or district that contribute to its
signiflcance and designation, and that
help deflne the distinctive character of the
structure, site, street, or district.
Clapboard, siding
Horizontal wooden boards, thinner at the
top edge, which are overlapped to
provide a weatherproof exterior wall
surface.
Column
A circular or square vertical structural
member. Many times columns fall into
one of flve classical orders: Tuscan, Doric,
Ionic, Corinthian and Composite.
iv Historic Structures
Compatible/Compatibility
The ability of alterations and new designs
to be located in or near historic properties
and districts without adverse effect. Some
elements affecting design compatibility
include location, height, scale, mass and
bulk of structures; building materials;
architectural details; circulation and
access; landscaping; and parking
impacts. Compatibility refers to the
sensitivity of development proposals in
maintaining the character and context of
historic properties and districts. (also
appropriate)
Configuration
The arrangement of elements and details
on a building or structure that help to
deflne the character.
Consolidant
In wood or other surfaces, this is used to
stabilize deteriorated surfaces by
protecting and making them flrm again.
Construction
The act of adding an addition to an
existing building or structure, or the
erection of a new principle or accessory
building or structure on a lot or property.
Contemporary
Refiecting characteristics of the current
period. Contemporary denotes
characteristics that illustrate that a
building, structure, or detail was
constructed in the present or recent past.
Context
The setting in which a historic element,
site, structure, street or district exists.
Contributing
A structure , feature or property within a
historic district or on the site of a historic
landmark property that was built during
the Period of Signiflcance for the district
or designated property and can be
recognized as being from that period
(meaning they retain integrity).
Corbels
In masonry, a projection, or one of a
series of projections, each stepped
progressively farther forward with height
and articulating a cornice or supporting
an overhanging member.
Corinthian
A classical order of architecture,
characterized by fiuted columns and
elaborate capitals decorated with a fioral
motif, often an acanthus leaf.
Cornice
A projecting element that tops a wall.
Cupola
A small, often dome-like structure on top
of a building. Often used to provide light
and air below, and usually crowns a larger
roof or dome.
Design Guidelines v
Cresting
A decorated ornamental flnish along the
top of a wall or roof often made of
ornamental metal.
Deck
A fiat surface that forms the main outside
fioor of a porch or balcony.
Demolition
The razing of a building, structure, or site
in part or in total.
Demolition by Neglect
Allowing a building to fall into such a
state of disrepair that it becomes
necessary or desirable to demolish it.
Property owners have been accused of
permitting demolition by neglect on
purpose, in order to save on rehabilitation
costs.
Dentils
A row of small tooth-like blocks in a
classical cornice.
Doric
A classical order of architecture,
characterized by simplicity of design.
Typically Doric columns have no base, are
not fiuted and feature a smooth capital
that fiares out from the column base to
meet a square abacus.
Dormer
A roofed structure that contains one or
more windows and projects from a
sloped roof.
Double-Hung Window
A window with two sashes, one sliding
vertically over the other.
Drop, Siding
A siding type prevalent in the 19th
century with production at lumber mills.
The siding has a Dutch inspired swoop at
the top and a hidden rabbet to allow self
spacing.
Eave
The edge of a roof that projects beyond
the face of a wall.
Ecclesiastical
Relating to the church or its clergy
Elevation
Any one of the external face or façades of
a building.
Entablature
A horizontal, continuous lintel on a
classical building supported by columns
or a wall, comprising the architrave, frieze,
and cornice
Façade
The exterior front wall of a building,
usually the most ornate or articulated
elevation.
Fanlights
A semi-circular window usually over a
door with radiating muntins suggesting a
fan.
vi Historic Structures
Fascia
A fiat horizontal member of molding;
forms the trim of a fiat roof or pitched
roof; also part of a classical entablature.
Fence
An artiflcially constructed barrier, typically
of wood, metal or other material or
combination of materials to enclose,
screen or separate areas.
Fenestration
The arrangement of windows on a
building
Finial
A projecting decorative element, usually
of metal, at the top of a roof turret or
gable.
Fixed Pane, Window
A window that is non-operational. These
can sometimes be called picture windows
and do not have operable hardware.
Their main purpose is to allow light.
Flashing
Thin metal sheets used to prevent
moisture inflltration at joints of roof planes
and between the roof and vertical
surfaces.
Flat, Roof
A roof which is almost completely
horizontal. Often found on commercial
architecture and concealed with a
parapet.
Form
The shape and structure of a building.
Foundation
The lowest exposed portion of the
building wall, which supports the
structure above.
Frieze
The part of an entablature between the
architrave and the cornice
Gabled, Roof
A triangular shaped roof formed by two
intersecting roof planes; also the
triangular shaped wall at the end of the
roof.
Gambrel, Roof
A type of gable roof with two slopes on
each side, the upper being less steep
than the lower.
Ghost Sign
A historic painted wall sign.
Glazing
Part of a window, wall, or door that is
made up of glass. Also known as lights.
Header
Upper horizontal framing member of a
window or door.
Hipped, Roof
A roof with all four sides sloping
downwards towards the walls the
structure
Design Guidelines vii
Historic Advisory Committee (HAC)
A committee created in 1967 which,
today focuses on listing and reviewing
updates to the historic resources in the
County as well as sponsoring the John
Frey Historic Preservation Award.
Historic District Commission (HDC)
A commission created to administer
permit review within historic zoning
designations.
Historic Preservation Zoning (HP Overlay)
A zoning overlay that was adopted in
1973 but it wasn’t until 1986 when a text
and map amendment were completed
that focused the district to keep exterior
appearances of buildings intact.
Ionic
A classical order of architecture
characterized by the use of volutes on the
capital and fiuted columns supported by
a base with an egg-and-dart motif.
In-Kind
Replacement of a building element to
match the original in material, size,
proflle, texture, and color.
Integrity
The ability of a structure or district to
convey its historic and architectural
signiflcance.
Jack Arch
A fiat, structural element in masonry
construction that provides support at an
opening, similar to a lintel, but
constructed of smaller, individual pieces.
Also knows as a fiat arch.
Jamb
The side framing member of a door or
window.
Landmark
A property, structure, site or object
designated as a “landmark” that has a
high degree of historic, cultural,
architectural or archaeological
signiflcance. All such designations include
the lot(s) of record associated with the
structure or object designated as a
landmark.
Landscape
The totality of the built or human
infiuenced habitat experienced at any one
place. Dominant features are topography,
plant cover, buildings or other structures
and their patterns.
Lintel
The horizontal top member of a window,
door or other opening.
Maintain
To keep in a state of preservation or
repair to avoid deterioration of historic
materials and features.
viii Historic Structures
Mansard (Mansart), Roof
A roof with a double slope on all four
sides, with the lower slope being almost
vertical and the upper almost horizontal.
Maryland Historical Trust (MHT)
The state agency dedicated to preserving
and interpreting the legacy of Maryland's
past. Through research, conservation and
education, the Maryland Historical Trust
assists the people of Maryland in
understanding their historical and cultural
heritage. MHT is the State Historic
Preservation Oiffce for the State of
Maryland. (see also State Historic
Preservation Oiffce)
Masonry
Construction of brick, stone, or other
material requiring mortar and
construction by a mason.
Mass
The overall size, height, shape and
composition of the exterior of volumes of
a building, especially when the structure
has major and minor elements. (Also
called Massing)
Molding
A continuous decorative band, often
serving as a decorative device; often
decorative with a variety of contours or
outlines, and typically covering the joint
formed where two surfaces or material
types meet
Mortar
A mixture of sand, lime, cement and
water, used as a binding agent in masonry
construction.
Mothballing
To stop using a structure but keep it in
good condition through proper
preparation for disuse so that it can be
readily used again in the future
Mullion
A vertical element separating windows,
doors, or panels set in a series.
Muntins
A secondary framing member to divide
and hold the panes of glass in a multi-
light window or glass door.
New Construction
Construction which is characterized by the
introduction of new elements, sites,
buildings or structures or additions to
existing buildings and structures.
Non-Contributing
A structure, feature or property within a
historic district or on the site of a historic
landmark property that does not support
or add to the historic and architectural
signiflcance of a designated property or
historic district.
Design Guidelines ix
Oriel (window)
A form of bay window which protrudes
from the main wall of a building but does
not reach to the ground. Supported by
corbels, brackets, or similar cantilevers, an
oriel window is most commonly found
projecting from an upper fioor but is also
sometimes used on the ground fioor.
Orientation
The relationship of a structure to the
compass points or a site feature; may
refer to the direction a façade faces, such
as the south elevation, or the direction of
a main axis, as in an east-west orientation.
Ornamentation
Applied embellishment in various styles
that is a distinguishing characteristic of
buildings. Ornamentation often occurs on
entablatures, columns, and the tops of
buildings and around entryways and
windows, especially in the form of
moldings.
Outbuilding
A small, secondary building separated
from the main building.
Palladian Window
A palladian window is a large window
divided in three parts: a central sash that
is arched at the top and two sashes on
each side of it that are smaller than the
central sash; the smaller sashes are
rectangular, topped with fiat lintels
Parapet
A low wall at the edge of a roof, balcony,
or deck.
Pediment
A triangular crowning element forming
the gable of a roof; any similar triangular
element used over windows, doors, etc.
Period of Significance
The time period during which an historic
landmark or historic district gained its
architectural, historical, and/or
geographical importance. Typically, the
period of signiflcance covers a longer
period of time than a structure’s, in order
to encompass the period of during which
the district developed.
Pilasters
A square pillar attached, but projecting
from a wall, resembling a classical
column.
Porch
A structure attached to a building to
shelter an entrance.
Portico
A roofed space, open or partly enclosed,
forming the entrance and centerpiece of
the façade of a building, often with a
column and pediment.
Primary Façade
The main building face; the sides of a
building that are street-facing.
x Historic Structures
Projecting Sign
A sign attached perpendicular to the wall
of a building. Also called blade sign.
Proportion
The relationship of the size, shape, and
location of one building element to all the
other elements; each architectural style
typically has its own rules of proportion.
Puncheon
A short post, especially one used for
supporting the roof
Quoins
A series of raised stone, bricks, or wood
panels ornamenting the outside of a wall
corner
Rail, window
A horizontal piece of the window sash
Reconstruction
The act or process of reassembling,
reproducing or replacing by new
construction, the form, detail and
appearance of the property and its setting
as it appeared at a particular period of
time by means of the removal of later
work, or by the replacement of missing
earlier work, or by reuse of the original
materials.
Rehabilitation
The act or process of returning a building,
object, site or structure to a state of utility
through repair, remodeling, or alteration.
Rehabilitation projects make possible an
eiffcient contemporary use while
preserving those portions or features of
the building, object, site or structure, that
are signiflcant to its historical,
architectural and geographical value.
Relocation
Any change of the location of a building,
object or structure in its present setting or
to another setting.
Repair
Use of measures to stabilize, consolidate,
or conserve existing materials and
features
Restoration
The act or process of accurately
recovering the form and details of a
building, object, site or structure, and its
setting as it appeared at a particular
period of time by means of the removal of
later work, or by the replacements of
missing earlier work.
Retain
To keep secure and intact. Retain
describes the act of keeping an element,
detail or structure, and providing a level
of repair to aid in the preservation of
elements, sites and structures.
Design Guidelines xi
Rhythm
Regular occurrence of elements or
features, such as spacing between
buildings.
Right-Of-Way
Public land that has been granted an
easement, such as for utilities, or reserved
for transportation purposes. Can include
pedestrian traiffc, vehicular traiffc, canals,
railway traiffc, oil and gas pipeline, etc.
Rusticated
Roughening of stonework or concrete
blocks to give greater articulation to each
block.
Sash
The movable framework holding the glass
in a window
Scale
Proportional elements that demonstrate
the size, materials and style of buildings.
The proportions of the elements of a
building to one another and the whole,
and to adjacent buildings.
Screening
Any landscaping or structure such as
walls, landscaped berms, and hedges,
used to conceal or reduce the negative
visual and audio impacts of certain land
uses or activities from streets or adjacent
development.
Secondary Structure
A smaller or lesser structure associated
with a primary structure on a property.
Also called an accessory structure.
Secretary of Interior (SOI)
A branch of the National Park Service
which oversees the use and conservation
of federal lands. The SOI also developed
standards commonly used by property
owners, architects and governments to
make deicsions about the appropriate
treatment of historic properties.
Section 106
Refers to Section 106 of the National
Historic Preservation Act of 1966, which
requires State and Federal agencies to
take into account the effects of their
proposed activities or activities they
permit on properties included, or eligible
for inclusion, in the National Register of
Historic Places.
Setbacks
The distance a structure is located from
the street, other public way, or property
line. Setback can also refer to the distance
between structures on one or multiple
lots.
Setting
The sum of attributes of a locality,
neighborhood or property that deflnes its
character.
xii Historic Structures
Sheathing
An exterior covering of boards or other
surface applied to the frame of the
structure.
Shed, roof
A pitched roof with a single plane rising
from one wall to the opposite wall. This
type of roof can be found on outbuildings
as the sole roof type or also be found in
combination with other roof types as part
of dormers or porches.
Shingles, Roof
A rooflng material
Shingles, Siding
A variable width, length, and thickness of
re-sawed lumber where the wood is split
along the grain rather than sawing. This
siding was popular on Queen Anne style
homes as a decorative element of varying
patterns.
Shutter
A usually movable cover or screen for a
window or door that limits light and
weather through the opening
Shutter Dog
A piece of hardware attached to the
exterior wall which holds a shutter open
and fiush to the structure when the shutter
is not in use. These can be highly
decorative.
Sidelights
A vertical area of flxed glass on either side
of a door or window.
Siding
The exterior wall covering or sheathing of
a structure.
Sign
A sign is an object or device or part
thereof situated outdoors or indoors
which is used to identify or advertise a
business.
Sill
The horizontal, usually projecting, lower
lip of a window or door.
Single-Hung, Window
A window with a single movable sash that
slides up from the bottom while the stop
sash stays stationary
Siting
The placement of a building, structure, or
object on a site in relation to natural
features, boundaries, and other parts of
the built environment.
Spalling
The chipping or fiaking of a masonry
surface often due to moisture or
weathering.
State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)
An oiffcial within each state appointed by
the governor to administer the state
historic preservation program and carry
out certain responsibilities relating to
federal undertakings within the state. In
Maryland this is the Maryland Historical
Trust. See also Maryland Historical Trust
Design Guidelines xiii
Stile, window
A vertical edge piece of the window sash
Style
A type of architecture distinguished by
special characteristics of structure and
ornament and often related in time; also a
general quality of a distinctive manner.
Terrace
A relatively level paved or planted area
adjoining a building
Transom
A horizontal window opening over a door
or window
Trim
The decorative framing of openings and
other features on a façade.
Tuscan
A classical order of architecture,
characterized by simplicity of design.
Similar to the Doric Order with the
exception that Tuscan columns are
supported by a base with an egg-and-
dart motif, like that of the Ionic Order.
Valley
The intersection of two sloping roof
surfaces.
Veneer
A thin layer of material used as decorative
facing that is not load bearing.
Vernacular
A regional form or adaptation of an
architectural style. Often utilitarian in
nature and stylistically infiuenced by High-
Style architecture.
V-Groove, Siding
Variable width (6-10inches) siding which
is installed horizontally with a rabbeted
bottom allowing self spacing with the
preceding course, leaving a slight "v"
pattern between the courses.
xiv Historic Structures
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Design Guidelines xv
Citations:
Calvert County, M. H. (2001, October). Historic District Design Guidelines. Retrieved from Cal-
vert County Maryland: https://www.calvertcountymd.gov/DocumentCenter/View/256/
HDGuidelines?bidId=
Montgomery County Maryland. (2021, 12 29). Solar Panel Interactive Guide. Retrieved from
Montgomery County Planning: https://montgomeryplanning.org/wp-content/
uploads/2021/12/Solar-Panel-Interactive.pdf
Murphy & Dittenhafer Architects for Frederick County. (2021, October 12). https://
www.frederickcountymd.gov/. Retrieved from Frederick County, Maryland Design
Guidelines: https://www.frederickcountymd.gov/DocumentCenter/View/315/Historic-
Preservation-Commission-Design-Guidelines
U.S. Department of the Interior, N. P. (2017). The Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the
Treatment of Historic Properties with Guidelines for Preserving, Rehabilitating, Restoring
and Reconstructing Historic Buildings. Washington, D.C.: Technical Preservation Ser-
vices.
US National Park Service. (2021, 12 28). Brief 25: The Preservation of Historic Signs. Retrieved
from nps.gov: https://www.nps.gov/tps/how-to-preserve/briefs/25-signs.htm
Washington County, Maryland. (2021, 12 22). Washington County Zoning Ordinance. Re-
trieved from Local Legal Materials: https://www.washco-md.net/wp-content/uploads/
county-attny-Zoning-Ord.pdf#page=200