[Wabash, Indiana] – The Wabash County Historical Museum presented the Historical Preservation Award to Dave Vandermark and Kathleen Alspaugh, and the Lagro Canal Foundation on May 15, 2019.
The Historical Preservation Award is given to both an individual and an organization who are working to preserve Wabash County. These groups and individuals are dedicated to the work of returning Wabash County to its historical glory and for their dedication to local historic preservation.
“The Museum is excited to recognize the work of individuals and organizations county-wide who are doing phenomenal things to preserve local history,” said Mitch Figert, President & CEO of the Wabash County Historical Museum.
During the presentation, Figert pointed out that historic preservation is a term many of use but may not fully understand. He then shared one definition offered by the National Parks Service which defines historic preservation as a “conversation with our past about our future.”
“The goal of the Museum is to serve as a resource for these groups to provide research and support to achieve their goals,” Figert continued. “In addition, we work to educate and excite all ages about the importance of our local history and the lessons we can learn from stories that have been shared with us by previous generations.”
Vandermark and Alspaugh are doing extensive work to the Bradley Building to bring life back to the worn down building. They are also working on neighboring buildings, creating a lot of momentum to the Canal Street area.
“We are honored to receive this award and wish to thank the Wabash County Historical Museum for recognizing our effort. We intend to continue our restoration projects in order to restore the buildings on Canal Street to their original 19th Century character,” said Alspaugh.
The Lagro Canal Foundation works to promote revitalization of the Lagro community through education, historic preservation, beautifying public spaces, and marketing natural amenities.
“The Lagro Canal Foundation would like to thank the Wabash County Historical Museum and its Board for recognizing us for our dedication to local historic preservation. We are humbled and ecstatic with being the recipient of this award. In addition, we sincerely appreciate the fact that our efforts are being noticed,” said Beth Gillespie, board member of the Lagro Canal Foundation.
The Wabash County Historical Museum is excited to be able to recognize groups in the community who are dedicated to historic preservation. For more information, visit the Wabash County Historical Museum’s website at www.wabashmuseum.org or find them on Facebook at Wabash County Historical Museum, Inc.