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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 |