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Washington County Historical Society seeks $9,900 to design downtown curatorial facility
Summary
The Washington County Historical Society asked Hagerstown city leaders on Aug. 12 for $9,900 to complete architectural plans for a proposed curatorial facility behind the Miller House Museum, saying it already has $22,500 toward the $32,400 phase-1 cost.
Andrew Stout, speaking for the Washington County Historical Society, presented an overview of the society’s recent activities and a capital request at the Aug. 12 mayor and council meeting. Stout described the society’s work operating the Miller House Museum and the Kinship Family Heritage Research Center; he reported 350 members, sold-out programming and new bus-tour offerings in the county.
Capital proposal: Stout proposed converting a two-car garage behind the Miller House (Library Alley) into a two-story curatorial facility that would provide artifact storage, a visible curatorial workspace, educational programming and improved conservation capabilities. He described the project as a phased effort: phase 1 is architectural design plans (cost estimate $32,400), of which the society already has $22,500 and needs $9,900 to proceed immediately. Phase 2 is a renovation and build-out estimated at $650,000 to $1 million; Stout said the Maryland Heritage Area Authority is a likely partner for capital funding if the project advances to phase 2.
Use and benefits: Stout said the facility would reduce off-site storage, create internship and hands-on curation opportunities for students, and serve as a downtown cultural asset. He listed recent accomplishments including facility improvements already completed at the Miller House, expanded public programming and internship placements funded via Rural Maryland Council support.
Council reaction: Council members discussed visibility and whether the proposed facility in an alley was the right long-term home for expanded collections and exhibits. Some council members suggested exploring more visible downtown properties that could host museum displays. Stout said the society is open to exploring adjacent properties and emphasized that the curatorial facility is intended primarily to support collections care, internship opportunities and future exhibit development.
Next steps: Stout said phase 1 can begin immediately if the society secures the remaining $9,900; council members offered to continue discussions about site selection and possible city support or referrals to other downtown property opportunities.
Provenance: Presentation and council discussion recorded in Aug. 12 meeting transcript.
