THE DOUGLAS HANKS JR. PRESERVATION AWARD

The Oxford Museum launched the Douglas Hanks Jr. Oxford Preservation Award in 2006. The award recognizes extraordinary efforts of individuals and groups in preserving the unique history and heritage of Oxford, Maryland, and the surrounding area. Doug’s embrace of balancing Oxford’s history with its future inspired this award. The award continues a partnership between the Museum and Doug that began with the publication of Oxford Treasures, Then and Now in 1999.

Douglas Hanks Jr. moved with his family to Oxford at age four and lived here until his death in 2003 at age 60. He had deep roots in the town: an ancestor, William Stevens Jr., donated 30 acres used to found Oxford in 1668. An avid decoy carver and the author of seven books, Doug also dedicated himself to exploring and preserving Oxford’s heritage and history. He also championed preserving Oxford’s charms and traditions by urging responsible development in and around the town. Oxford is a very early small colonial town that has had to reinvent itself many times to remain viable. Each transformation brought with it a different way of life to the town.

Doug Hanks in his study
   

Qualifying Activities of Nominees
Awards can be given in the recognized categories described below. Only one award can be given in each category in any year, but an award may
be made in each of the categories if nominations warrant. Activities may
be completed one-time projects or continuing on-going projects that are developed to preserve Oxford’s history and heritage. Some examples of qualifying activities include but are not limited to:
Restoration Projects:
■ Restoration of an historic home, property, garden, traditional industry
    or way of life.
Service:
 ■ Development of a presentation, educational program or exhibit
    regarding an aspect of life in Oxford or items indigenous to the area.
■  Service as a resource or expert in Oxford history.
Stewardship:
■  Preservation of an historic home or the land, shoreline or water quality
    in Oxford or the surrounding area.
■  Restoring habitat.
■  Preventing inappropriate use of historic property.
■  Developing a history of a property for research files available to the
    public.
 

Nominations
Nominees may be an individual, group, organization, business or civic institution. Nominees need not be residents of Oxford as long as the activity specifically relates to Oxford and the surrounding area. Consideration for the award will take place annually. Nominations should be received no later than March 31. Decisions will be made by the Preservation Award Committee of The Oxford Museum, and the award will be presented at the annual membership meeting of the Museum in May.

Since its inception, the Award has been made to Chip Akridge (2006), the Cutts of Cutts & Case Shipyard, and Susan and Dick Deerin (2007).
 

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