HomeMy WebLinkAbout25.09.08 - Minutes, Historical Advisory CommitteeMinutes of the September 8th 2025
Washington County Historical Advisory Committee Meeting
Held at the Western Sizzlin’ Steakhouse Halfway Blvd., Halfway Md.
Members in Attendance:
Ralph Young, ZSun-nee Miller Matema , Bill Knode, Tom Clemens, Jefferson Boyer, David Wiles,
Sandy Izer, Commissioner Derek Harvey.
CALL TO ORDER. The meeting was called to order at 12;10. Tom Clemens agreed to take minutes
again, Jefferson promised to do the next meeting.
Old Business:
Membership – Ralph announced he was vacating his role as chairman. Laura Zimmerman has agreed
to serve as co-chair. After some discussion Zunny agreed to be the other co-chair.
Reichard Farm Project – Ralph shared that the farm has been cleaned up and a sign placed on it. He
also mentioned an estimate disassemble and store the buildings for $239K. There was discussion of
moving it to the Rural Heritage Center and various funding sources that might be accessed for it.
Commissioner Harvey suggested lobbying for county funding for the Rural Heritage Center. Also
mention was the 250th Anniversary committee and Heart of the Cil war Heritage Area.
Price’s Bridge – The April meeting with the county engineers made it clear that it was possible, but
only if action was taken soon, and it would be very expensive. Other obstacles include access and
property ownership.
Western Maryland Steam Engine 202 – Bill Knode reported that it is still unsettled where the
engine will be located. The W M Scenic Railroad wants to restore and use it, but no decision has been
made yet.
Boyer House in Sharpsburg – Tom Clemens reported they are negotiating with a potential buyer,
who is a very skilled restoration technician. Restrictive protections on the historic aspects of the
house will be part of the sale.
Historic Site signs - The signs put up by the Washington County Historical Society are
deteriorating. The files listing the sites and signs language have been found in the county archive. He
will provide a link to the files. The next step will be to replace or refurbish those that need it.
National road markers – Ralph reported nothing new on this topic.
Reconstruction of Rt. 40 bridge over Conococheague Creek – is progressing, piers are in place.
New Business
Future Meetings – Our next meeting will be at noon on Oct. 13 at Plumb Grove mansion in Clear
Spring.
Member Comments
Jefferson informed the committee of interest by the Smithsburg Historical Society in the Civil War
actions relating to the Confederate retreat from Gettysburg as it impacted Leitersburg, Smithsburg and
northeastern Washington County. He mentioned the Monterey Pass museum in Blue Ridge Summit was
well done and attracting visitors.
Commissioner Comments Mr. Harvey, no comments.
Respectfully submitted,
Tom Clemens