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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 This page is intentionally left blank 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 This page is intentionally left blank 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 This page is intentionally left blank 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 This page is intentionally left blank 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. Design Guidelines 47 Protect Maintain Repair Replace 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 Design Guidelines 49 Protect Maintain Repair Replace 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 Design Guidelines 51 Protect Maintain Repair Replace 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 Design Guidelines 53 Protect Maintain Repair Replace 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 Protect Maintain Repair Replace 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 Design Guidelines 57 Protect Maintain Repair Replace 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 Design Guidelines 59 Protect Maintain Repair Replace 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. Design Guidelines 61 Protect Maintain Repair Replace 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 Protect Maintain Repair Replace 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 This page is intentionally left blank 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 This page is intentionally left blank 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 This page is intentionally left blank 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