PRESERVATION MONTH, 2013

In 1973, the National Trust for Historic Preservation esta blished May as Preservation Month. The Elkins Historic Landmarks Commission joins other preservation groups, historical societies, business and civic organizations across the country in planning events to promote historic places for the purpose of instilling national and community pride, promoting heritage tourism, and showing the social and economic benefits of historic preservation.

Here are the events that the Commission has planned:

• On Monday, May 6, a Historic Preservation for Realtors training is being offered at the Darden House. The free training, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., will offer information about historic preservation issues for realtors and others interested in historic properties. Training will be provided by the National Alliance of Preservation Commissions and the West Virginia State Historic Preservation office. Funding for the workshop is provided by the National Park Service and West Virginia Division of Culture and History.

• Biennial Toast to Preservation awards reception on May 22 at 4 p.m., at the Darden House.

• On Thursday, May 30 at 6 p.m., the West Virginia State Historic Preservation office will hold a public meeting at the Randolph County Community Arts Center to seek comments regarding the states historic preservation comprehensive plan and ideas for the direction of historic preservation efforts for the next five years. Input from the meetings and surveys will be used to draft a new comprehensive plan, which will be finalized by June 2014. All of those active or interested in historic preservation are urged to attend. A questionnaire to provide comments is also available at www.wvculture.org/shpo/shpoindex.aspx or by calling (304) 558-0240.

Press Release Ellen Spears

October 29, 2012 Elkins Historic Landmarks Commission

Tel. - (304) 636-0350

Recruitment for new commissioner:

The Elkins Historic Landmarks Commission (EHLC) is currently recruiting candidates to serve a five-year term as commissioner beginning in January 2013. The commission consists of five volunteer members appointed by the Mayor of Elkins, a majority of whom shall be residents of the City of Elkins. EHLC serves Elkins residents and city government by providing planning and technical assistance for the identification, certification and preservation of Elkins’ historic sites.

Commissioners meet monthly, for a total of at least ten regular meetings, at the historic Darden House networking with volunteers, other community organizations, and the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO). EHLC serves as the City's Certified Local Government (CLG) agency, helping Elkins qualify for a select category of grant programs. By providing local leadership, education and governance EHLC advocates for the preservation of the city’s historic places and revitalization of its buildings.

EHLC maintains an office in the Darden House, is primarily responsible for the upkeep of the house, its garden and adjoining Carriage House, and leases office space to other community groups. Commissioners meet the third Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the Darden House, downtown, on Davis Avenue, next to City Hall. All meetings are open to the public.

If anyone has an interest in serving on the EHLC, please contact Ellen Spears, at 636-0350.