2025 Annual Report - Report - Page 44
Charles County Government Annual Report • 2025
QUALITY OF LIFE
PRESERVING CHARLES COUNTY'S
HISTORY
Through PRESERVATION MATTERS, Charles County continues to share the stories, places, and partnerships that reflect
the communit y’s deep connection to its histor y and landscapes. The semi-annual publication highlights the County’s
ongoing commitment to historic preservation, cultural recognition, and thoughtful stewardship of the places that shape
community identity.
2025
Preservation Matters
CELEBRATING CHARLES COUNT Y'S HISTORIC PL ACES
A major milestone featured in the 2025 publication was the
establishment of the Southern Maryland National Heritage Area
(SMNHA), a nationally designated region that brings together
communities across Southern Maryland to recognize the area’s
foundational role in the nation’s story. This congressionally
approved designation elevates the voices, traditions, and
experiences that define Charles County — from Indigenous
heritage and religious freedom to African American history,
maritime traditions, and innovation — while supporting heritage tourism, environmental restoration, and local economic
growth through strong regional partnerships.
The County also celebrated meaningful preservation achievements with the listing of Bel Alton High School and the
Pomonkey Historic District on the National Register of Historic
Places. These nationally recognized sites honor the importance
of education, communit y life, and resilience within African
American and Native American communities, ensuring that these locally
rooted stories are preserved and shared with future generations.
CHARLES COUNTY GOVERNMENT
PLANNING & GROWTH
MANAGEMENT
www.CharlesCountyMD.gov
To protect the landscapes residents value most, Charles Count y
advanced land conservation efforts through updates to the Protected
Land Map, identif ying newly designated areas for land preservation.
These targeted designations safeguard agricultural lands, cultural
landscapes, environmentally sensitive areas, and historic resources,
supporting balanced growth while maintaining the County’s rural character and sense of place.
Central to these ef forts is the Count y’s ongoing collaboration with
the Piscataway people, the original stewards of the land. In support of
cultural recognition and reconciliation, Charles County advanced the
donation of land to the Piscataway Tribe, strengthening partnerships
grounded in respect, shared history, and long-term stewardship.
Together, these
initiatives reflect Charles
County’s commitment
to preserving places
that matter to its
residents, amplifying
underrepresented
voices, and ensuring
that community values
continue to guide
growth — protecting
these lands and stories
Read the latest Preservation Matters, at; CharlesCountyMD.
gov/government/planning-and-growth-management/
preservation-and-long-range-planning/historic-preservation
44 /
for generations
to come.
CharlesCountyMD.gov
