Southern Maryland launches Grandma's Hands film and new heritage website

The St. Mary's County government meeting held on March 19, 2025, focused on the impact of heritage tourism in Southern Maryland, highlighting various initiatives aimed at promoting the region's cultural and historical significance.

The meeting began with discussions on the role of the Southern Maryland National Heritage Area in providing grants, advocacy, and partnerships to enhance local heritage tourism. Participants emphasized the importance of viewing the region through a heritage lens, which extends beyond individual projects to encompass a broader cultural narrative.

One significant highlight was the launch of a film titled "Grandma's Hands," produced in collaboration with Quiet Stories. This film features personal stories from five Southern Maryland families, exploring the memories associated with their cherished recipes. The film aired on Maryland Public Television in November and received positive feedback, prompting plans for a full-length version to be broadcast on April 13, 2025. The success of this project has led to discussions about creating a series based on similar themes.

In addition to the film, the meeting addressed the launch of a new website, destinationsouthernmaryland.com, which includes updated boundaries and an interactive map to help visitors plan their trips. This resource aims to showcase various attractions, including wineries, breweries, distilleries, and parks, enhancing the overall visitor experience in the region.

The meeting also touched on a collaborative event with Maryland Public Television titled "Veil Into Maryland's Future," further illustrating the commitment to promoting heritage tourism through engaging community events and partnerships.

Overall, the discussions underscored the ongoing efforts to leverage heritage tourism as a means of economic development and cultural preservation in Southern Maryland, with plans for continued momentum in the coming months.