Like all Marylanders, we here at Preservation Maryland watched with shock and sadness as photos documented the disastrous flooding in Ellicott City, one of our state’s crown jewels of history and heritage. The raging floodwaters, which inundated some buildings to the second story, caused tremendous damage to an irreplaceable place. As an organization, we are committed to helping Ellicott City recover, here’s what we’re doing:
Immediate Response: On the evening on Saturday, July 30, 2016, the historic center of Ellicott City, Maryland was devastated by a flood. That next morning, Preservation Maryland activated an Emergency Flood Fund and opened up a volunteer sign-up form for those specifically interested in assisting with the restoration of historic properties in the historic district.
Emergency Stabilization: Two of the most damaged buildings, 8111 and 8113 Main Street, also likely the oldest frame buildings along Main Street, were in peril of collapse and demolition. The morning of Friday, August 5, 2016, Preservation Maryland brought structural engineers from Keast & Hood to assess the properties, and later they were stabilized.
Open Resource Center: One month after the flood, on August 30, 2016, Howard County Executive Allan Kittleman held a press conference to announce that Preservation Maryland would be opening a Preservation Resource Center on Main Street to provide direct technical preservation assistance to historic property owners.
To support the Preservation Resource Center in providing direct technical assistance to historic property owners, donate now.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
You can help bring technical preservation and engineering assistance to Ellicott City by donating to Preservation Maryland.
You can also volunteer – those with specific skills in preservation, architecture, or other professional trades are encouraged to sign-up.
To follow-along and contribute to the planning discussions on social media, follow Preservation Maryland on Facebook and Twitter; and use the hashtag #preserveMD and #ECstrong.
FOR HISTORIC PROPERTY OWNERS
Please complete the Maryland Historical Trust’s property damage form. Based on that information, the Trust and Preservation Maryland will begin to match the needs of affected properties with professionals that may be able to assist. Please share this form throughout the Ellicott City community, and contact our offices directly about specific preservation needs.
The Maryland Historical Trust has also compiled a list of resources from around the state and country about responding to flooding in historic areas.
PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS
Maryland Historical Trust, Patapsco Valley Heritage Greenway, Maryland Heritage Area Authority, AIA Baltimore, AIA Potomac Valley, Maryland Association of Historic District Commissions, Historic Annapolis, Community Forklift, Maryland Chapter of the American Society of Interior Designers, Heritage Montgomery, Anacostia Trails Heritage Area